2010's Best Performances

Best performances in films are typified by an actor's ability to lend sincerity and truth to a given character. They transcend and go beyond the limitations of a written character, making them come to life. They also become vessels of insight; they mirror lives and allow us to "feel" and sympathize for them; to frighten or amuse us, allure us with the power of their emotion. From 73 commercially released movies from January 1 to December 31, 2010, here is our shortlist of those who deserve our standing ovation.

These are 2010's Best Performances:

Best Performance by an Actor in a Lead Role:

1. Ronnie Lazaro as the cantankerous ex-convict with a soft heart for damsels in distress in "Ishmael"

2. John Lloyd Cruz as Allan, the lonely architect who falls for a girl who writes on stones in "Miss You Like Crazy"

Ronnie Lazaro & John Lloyd Cruz

3. Sid Lucero as Jun, the ex-seminarian-cum-activist who figures in a clandestine affair with Errol (Cogie Domingo), a married lawyer in the over-written and sappy "Muli".

4. Joey Paras as Wilson, a film production assistant, who faces judicial reproach when he misplaces a rented tapestry used during a TV commercial shoot in "Last Supper No. 3"

Sid Lucero & Joey Paras

5. Pen Medina as Lolo Pol, the aging inmate forced to do his last assassination "job" to avert threats against his daughter's life in "Layang Bilanggo"

6. Coco Martin as the traveling journalist who follows Noynoy Aquino's campaign trail in "Noy"

Pen Medina & Coco Martin

Our best performance by an actor in a lead role: Sid Lucero is the best thing in the otherwise mediocre gay romance, "Muli". In the movie, Lucero is self assured, a packet of smoldering passion. His intensity overflows; his longing looks towards the self-absorbed Errol quite palpable. You'd wish someone would look at you that way!

Here are the year's best performance by an actress in a lead role:

1. Bea Alonzo as the bitter daughter Dianne who's ambivalent of her father's homecoming 10 years after he abandoned his family to live with his mistress in the predictable "Sa Yo Lamang"

2. Jennylyn Mercado as the spoiled heiress who, in the 1920s, from her New York studies, comes home to Isabela in "Rosario"

Bea Alonzo & Jennylyn Mercado

3. Frenchescka Farr as Amelia, the poverty-stricken Ilocano lass who becomes royal nanny in an emirate household in the musical-adventure "Emir". Farr is emotionally adroit and vocally nimble, without a trace of excesses. She is the perfect heroine that embodies the strong Filipina! It's hard to picture any other actresses play Amelia. Farr lights up the screen like a newly crowned cinema royalty.

4. Angelica Panganiban is simply a sight to behold as Stephanie, the blushing bride who gloriously transforms into a "flaming fairy" in "Here Comes The Bride"

Frenchescka Farr & Angelica Panganiban

5. Carla Abellana as the perturbed tutor Diane who unearths several disturbing facts other than her wards' photosensitivity in Shake, Rattle & Roll 12's "Punerarya" segment. A feisty, empathetic heroine - and a "star" is truly born!

6. Rita Avila as Soledad, the middle aged housewife who figures in an illicit tryst with a younger man one chatty night in Boracay in “Magdamag”.

Our Best Actress: Hands down and no contest - Bea Alonzo is a virtual force of nature as Dianne in "Sa Yo Lamang"! She elevates the triteness of the pedestrian narrative, conveying herself into several levels of emotional intensity. I am telling you, guys, give Bea the role of a stone and she will make us believe it! Ms. Alonzo is truly this generation's most insightful actress! And I hope Star Cinema remembers this!

Carla Abellana & Rita Avila

Best Performance by an Actor in a Supporting Role:

1. Dolphy as Francisco who tells the sprawling saga of his grandmother in "Rosario"

2. Ricky Davao as Miguel, the scurrilous and slimy landlord in "Rosario"

Dolphy & Ricky Davao

3. Enchong Dee as the conflicted James, an honor student who resorts to cheating, in "Sa Yo Lamang"

4. Luis Manzano as Sarah Geronimo's suitor in the product-peddling, commercial-heavy "Hating Kapatid". Manzano's self deprecating scenes are a joy to behold, I couldn't help myself from laughing so hard. Remember that scene where Cecil (Sarah Geronimo) pursues Luis - on foot! - as she tries to apologize all the way from North Edsa to Galleria? Doing comedy is never an easy task.

Enchong Dee & Luis Manzano

5. Jeffrey Quizon as the closeted funeral parlor attendant who joins a grieving family's trip to secure the corpse of a beloved daughter in "Two Funerals"

6. Marc Abaya as Pido, the ravenous cult leader in the visually delectable (in fact, 2010's most gorgeous film) "Dagim"

Our Best Actor in a Supporting Role: Dolphy as Francisco, the intuitive storyteller who mines his limited scenes with sincerity and heartfelt simplicity in "Rosario". In the hands of a lesser actor, his stories could be easily watered down as hearsay. And Mr. Manny Pangilinan wouldn't have produced this lavish tale. :->

Jeffrey Quizon & Marc Abaya

Best Performance by an Actress in a Supporting Role:

1. Jodi Sta. Maria as the unwed mother Aylynn who feels naturally conflicted when her old paramour Wesley (Sam Milby) comes home in the Ozu-styled "Third World Happy"

2. Kalila Aguilos as the long suffering Tersing, a maid in a royal household, who's eternally cash-strapped and under-appreciated in "Emir". Check out her duet ("O Maliwanag Na Buwan") with Amelia (Farr).

Jodi Sta. Maria & Kalila Aguilos

3. Eugene Domingo as Rowena, Ina's best friend in the riotous "Ang Tanging Ina Mo...Last Na 'To", a film that somehow reminds you of the grandeur of Ms. Domingo's comedic talent!

4. Odette Khan as Manang Ludya, one of the caretakers at the funeral parlor in Shake, Rattle & Roll 12's Punerarya episode. She navigated through the segment almost without a line, but her presence is so powerful, you remember her serrated fangs way after leaving the cinema.

Our Best Actress in a Supporting Role: Jodi Sta. Maria in "Third World Happy". Ms. Sta. Maria has truly evolved into one of the country's most prolific actresses. Her short scenes with Sam Milby (the first time her character sees her ex-boyfriend - after 12 long years) is a testament to the newfound thespic power of this actress.

Eugene Domingo & Odette Khan

MUSICAL THEMES

We would like to mention the amazing songs worthy of commendation from some of 2010's films: the anthemic "Ba't Ako Narito" sang by Frenchescka Farr ("Emir"), and Toni Gonzaga's perfectly frolicky, hearth-warming "Mahal Kasi Kita" from the often times gratifying - scrumptious "My Amnesia Girl".

Up next: 2010's Worst Films and Performances

Best Films of 2010 - And The Rundown of All Commercially Shown Local Films in 2010

2010 has generally been a disappointing year in terms of the number of local films that saw commercial exhibition. We have slaved a portion of our life to watch them, diligently documenting most of them in this blogsite.

The big number is 73! These were the films that were served on our cinematic platter, shown on commercial theaters, every one we paid to watch, shelling out an estimate of P11,680 for 2010 for these local films. Now multiply that with the movie-going population of Manila. Isn't that serious business?

But the real question is: Do these films deserve our patronage? "Tangkilikin ang pelikulang Pilipino" is such a tired line from non-thinking parrots. Should we really invest our entertainment money on these 73 commercially shown films? Sadly, the answer is a resounding "no". Only a handful deserve our attention or money. Notice the emergence of the Pink Film, most of them exploitation flicks with the salient objective of disrobing the male species! They constitute about almost 1/3 of the whole output of locally produced films! They have spawned "Superstars" in their own genre: Jeff Luna, Marco Morales, Charles Delgado, Ray an Dulay, et.al. - each one willing to show off their family jewels! In fact, at no other time in Philippine Showbiz has there been a surfeit of penises on screen!

Movies have to deserve patronage. It isn't enough that a film maker has invested his blood, sweat and tears on a film project for his audience to automatically heap undeserved praise. After all, the money that is paid for a movie ticket doesn't grow on trees. People work hard to earn them. The bottom line is: consumers like me will honestly say our piece about a particular product that we paid to watch. If we bought rotten tomatoes from the market, we deserve to throw those rotten tomatoes back to their sellers. And since we really can't get our money back, we label them garbage and tell the world not to buy such crap! That's simply consumer rights!

On the other hand, there are the very few gems that come out from a lean harvest. These are the ones that moved us! And we are grateful to them for making 2010 worth our time and money.

Criteria of inclusion (and exclusion): This list includes all the movies that made it in commercial cinemas; those who bravely exhibited works on commercial theaters. Heard of those supposedly great titles that were only shown in special venues (UP Film Center, CCP)? They are largely inconsequential to us. Heard of those internationally screened award-winning films that were never screened locally? Their awards don't mean squat to us either. We can never be proud of flicks that weren't meant for Pinoy screening! Film makers who matter to us are those who laboriously set their works up to be seen by the Pinoys, not the elite foreign crowd. We've also included titles shown at the Cinema One Originals because they enjoyed extensive screening at the Shangrila at popular rates last November. It was open to the movie-going masa!

2010's Best Films: (in random order)

1. Ishmael (Richard Somes) - Tarantino-esque tale of "alienation" and the extreme boundary of people's faith, this film effectively banks on its narrative's sense of paranoia, though at times, it seemed technically "unfinished".

2. Ang Damgo ni Eleuteria Kirschbaum (Remton Siega Zuasola) - Spectacularly shot in a single take, the whole film is a tremendous almost-theatrical exploration of a girl's odyssey in behalf of her family's quest for better lives and "greener pastures".

3. Noy (Dondon Santos) - A film making crew follows a winning Presidential candidate's campaign trail, while domestic events unravel in the life of its slum-dwelling protagonist. One of those fastly-becoming-trite poverty porns, but is nevertheless a decent piece that ingeniously weaves a confounding story within its quasi-documentary form.

4. Here Comes The Bride (Chris Martinez) - Eclipse plays its hilarious hand in a body-switching phenomenon that's causing havoc at a blushing bride's wedding!

5. The Red Shoes (Raul Jorolan) - A stolen pair of shoes figures prominently in the lives of Lucas, his girlfriend Bettina, his mother Chat and an Imelda Marcos-loving psychic named Madame Vange.

6. Bakal Boys (Ralston Jover) - Utoy, a 10 year old scavenger aimlessly searches for his friend who disappeared one day while scavenging for metal scraps in the dingy waters of Manila Bay. Not the easiest film to watch, but patience pays off in introspective ways.

7. Last Supper No. 3 (Veronica B. Velasco) - A production assistant religiously attends to the tedious court proceedings that concern the loss of a tapestry used for a commercial.

8. Two Funerals (Gil Portes) - A road movie that plies the eventful roads from Tuguegarao to Bicol during the Holy Week to recover the corpse of a daughter. Vacillating between humorous and perplexing, the film is littered with social commentaries as a mother and a grieving boyfriend try to recover a loved one's body - with the help of a closeted gay man!

9. RPG Metanoia (Luis C. Suarez) - The country's first ever 3D animated feature boasts of striking visuals and a story of a child who rediscovers life beyond online gaming. The scene where traditional Pinoy games were being played (while the APO jubilantly sings "Bawa't Bata") is already worth the ticket price!

10. Rosario (Alberto Martinez) - Ambitiously lavish, both in narrative exposition and execution, albeit with a convoluted story, but earnestly tells the story of a head strong woman who followed no rules at a time when moral and cultural restrictions were the norm. Largely berated and scorned for its bottomless pit of resources than its perceived mediocrity. Grandeur of cinema on display!

My pick for the year's best: Veronica Velasco's "Last Supper No. 3"

Up next: 2010's Best and Worst Performances

A List of all Tagalog films that made it in commercial theaters in 2010 (from January 1 to December 31, 2010: (Do holler if I've missed a title)

Lilay

Ika-Sampu

Karera

East of Paradise

RPG Metanoia

Father Jejemon

Rosario

Shake, Rattle & Roll 12

Ang Tanging Ina Mo…Last Na To

Dalaw

Si Agimat at Si Enteng Kabisote

Super Inday and the Magic Bibe

My Amnesia Girl

D’ Survivors

Astro Mayabang

Tsardyer

Layang Bilanggo

Dagim

Third World Happy

Ishmael

Ang Damgo ni Eleuteria Kirschbaum

Ang Babae sa Sementeryo

Cinco

Pulupot

I’ll Be There

Wanted: Border

Pendong

Tarima

Ian Loreno’s The Leaving

Laruang Lalake

Till My Heartaches End

eXsena

Cris Pablo’s Mga Pinakamahabang One Night Stand

Topel Lee’s White House

Petrang Kabayo

I Do

Adolf Alix’s Muli

Indie Boys

Magdamag

Lagpas

Sa Yo Lamang

Dampi

Mahilig

Celso Ad. Castillo’s 666

Hating Kapatid

In Your Eyes

Halik Sa Tubig

Araro

Emir

Noy

Mamarazzi

You To Me Are Everything

Here Comes The Bride

Working Girls (2010)

Paano Ko Sasabihin

Babe I Love You

Santuaryo

The Red Shoes

Ben and Sam

Parisukat

Bakal Boys

Pitas

Pilantik

Last Supper No. 3

Miss You Like Crazy

Marino

SpEd Hearts

Standing Room Only

Iliw

Paano Na Kaya

Fidel

Sagrada Pamilya

Puntod

Imelda Marcos & the Oscar Buzz in Kevin Spacey's "Casino Jack"

"Washington is like Hollywood with Ugly People."

Jack Abramoff (played by Kevin Spacey), Washington lobbyist, knows what he is talking about, but such insightful aptitude has lead him to corruption, embezzlement and even murder. His work has also translated to an unconscionable greed, staving off about $40 million from native Americans, taking over a floating casino business, and bribing politicians along the way to move his money-making causes with the help of his equally greedy partner Michael Scanlon (Barry Pepper).

The lines in the film bristle with wit and fire, but what particularly caught our attention was the reference to Philippines' queen of the ostentatious - Imelda Marcos!

While Jack pitches his "business" with the slimy Adam Kidan (Jon Lovitz), he suddenly name-drops the grand dame out of exasperation:

Jack: I've dealt with commies in Nicaragua, generals in Pakistan, partied enough with Imelda Marcos, why should I be afraid of a Greek who makes sandwiches?

Adam: What is Imelda like?

Jack: She likes to play piano and sing show tunes.

Adam: Really?

Jack: Yeah, she's got a pretty decent voice.

Jack's God-complex is undeniable, and you sometimes forget that he is human, as the spectacular Kevin Spacey carries Jack like an invincible creature. But when you realize that Jack Abramoff actually produced a Hollywood actioner called "Red Scorpion" starring Dolph Lundgren, then you realize sometime in the midst of this ego-charged political comic drama that, Mr. Abramoff is not infallible.

And that something will eventually crumble.

Powerful stuff from director George Hickenlooper who died last October 2010. Kelly Preston also stars as Jack's wife. The film is also known as "Bagman" and has gotten Golden Globe nomination, and a possible Oscar Buzz for Kevin Spacey.

Kevin Spacey and Kelly Preston as Mr. & Mrs. Jack Abramoff: Devout Jewish family!

Barry Pepper plays Michael Scanlon, Jack's right-hand man and "best friend" who never got convicted when he turned "witness". His girlfriend-problem started the fall of Jack's empire (she learned he was sleeping with the flight attendant!)

"You schmuck!" Jack shouts at Adam!

Imeldific. In her golden years, Imelda's Hollywood allure and mystic hasn't waned!

Barry Pepper

Walking Dead and Andrew Lincoln Take Us Hook, Line and Zombies

If there is one series that really kept us on our toes, constantly driving us at the edge of our seats, it would be Frank Darabont's spectacular post apocalyptic zombie action suspense drama, "The Walking Dead."

Much like its film predecessor, Danny Boyle's "28 Days Later", our protagonist named Rick (the adorable Andrew Lincoln) - a sheriff's deputy in a Georgia county - wakes up from a coma in the midst of a zombie apocalypse. The deputy finds civilization in utter disarray and the world that he knew has ceased to exist. After surviving attacks from "walkers" (that's how they call their zombies), he gradually meets a pack of survivors including his best friend Shane (Jon Bernthal), and he is reunited with his wife Lorie (Sarah Wayne Callies) and their kid. But they have to constantly move for food and supplies, and to arduously secure their safety. He thinks it's only a matter of time before the walking dead finally catches up with them, unless they find a possible solution from the CDC (Center for Disease Control and Prevention), but is it even operational? Are there doctors and personnel left? Most of the world has been afflicted and the very few live humans aren't as helpful or cooperative as they'd wish them to be.

I was on tenterhooks waiting for the last of the first season's 6 episodes. And I am glad that TV season's best new series has been renewed for another 13 episodes. I do wonder what becomes of Rick's friendship with best pal Shane (who was having an affair with his wife Lorie, before they learned he was actually alive). Will baddie Daryl (Norman Reedus) ever find his brother Merle (Michael Rooker) who had to cut his arm (in episode 2) so he could escape from the advancing walkers? (What's up with arm-cutting these days? Check out James Franco in Danny Boyles' "127 Hours".) Will Glenn volunteer for another crazy plan?

Finally, will Lorie ever admit to having hooked up with Shane? And why does Greg (who looks absolutely sexy in his deputy uniform) keep wearing the darn uniform? It feels relatively unnecessary considering the obvious situation they are in. Couldn't anyone tell him that if most of the world ended, no one would bother if he wore his uniform or run around naked all over Georgia?

Darn!

Warning!

And check this link for Andrew Lincoln's alternative uniform (not for the blushers) - https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfXruN9leah-NGQPyPoM8SwY1MhfMSU2a5UAzGnZMp75WYwfY1QrDTE7Kb_60oKbMGd2yvPAh91y-kdcw3i5vkTfyr7MAk7e1JC9M2mr045Vzo1k4sAuJTHOml-wBwuLU8DCCOFwAZYUg/s1600/andrew-lincoln3.jpg

Golden Globe nomination for Best Drama Series is well deserved, and I hope it wins the award too.

Civilization ceases to exist.

Andrew Lincoln's Rick Grimes finds his "world" abandoned and dead after waking up from a coma.

The walkers roam the city for live "food".

At the CDC with a suicidal doctor (Noah Emmerich).

The walkers.

The adorable Stephen Yeun plays cool dude Glenn who keeps volunteering.

Shane (Jon Bernthal) is madly in love.

Andrew Lincoln is 37, born in London. He changed his name "Andrew Clutterbuck" to "Andrew Lincoln" while studying in RADA. He appeared in several British TV series ("This Life") and the film "Love Actually". In "The Walking Dead", Andrew joins the big league! Doesn't he remind you of Joseph Fiennes?

Best Digital Fuzzy Cinemas – And 2010’s Most Wince-some & Winsome Moments Part 2

This post is 2^nd part of 2010’s Note-worthy People and Moments!

FUZZY STATE-OF-THE-ART

That SM Group of Cinemas should start considering the purchase of new digital players, projectors and screens. Being a major player in the cinema industry should make them aware that SM Cinemas all over the country have the worst Digital Cinemas in Asia! Digital films shown in SM look dark, fuzzy and the images are skewed. Heck, even low-brow Marketplace Cinema’s digital theater in Kalentong (Mandaluyong) has better facilities than SM.

“Tarima” and “Babae sa Sementeryo” seen at the Galleria and Megamalls will readily provide a stark comparative difference. While Galleria’s images glisten, Megamalls images appear dark and fuzzy, much like a pirated copy, and this is pretty unfair for the paying public as well as the film makers. My advice: if you are watching an indie movie and there’s a choice between an SM Cinema and elsewhere? It would be wise to watch it elsewhere!

I read somewhere that the SM Cinema Group covers 60% of the country's cinema market. If that is so, it is a serious matter lording it over with inferior technology.

REBUFFED

The obvious snob of Jennylyn Mercado from the Best Actress race at the Metro Manila Film Festival is a conundrum. Is Marian Rivera's "Super Inday" really even worthy of a nomination?

Though we don’t exactly feel Mercado should win the award, her portrayal was nothing to scoff at. It was devoid of excesses. Other overzealous actresses would have gone to town with such a lustrous character, but Mercado’s “Rosario” had the trappings of a cool chic who braved the Americas in the 1920s. There were scenes where you could have expected artistic flares, but Mercado remained calm and firmly casual. And her “Rosario” character was largely unapologetic of her (mis)deeds (except from her daughter whom she was forced to abandon), much like the perfect feminist. Sure, Rosario may not turn out like the crowd favorite – or the model of moral standard, but she lived her life the way she wanted. I like that!

“Rosario” is not a perfect vehicle either. It was convoluted and at times, unfocused, but this was superior work compared to the slapstick clutter of “Ang Tanging Ina Mo…Last Na ‘To”. When further compared to previous MMFF entries – like “Lapu Lapu”, the imbecilic “Wapakman”, “Super Noypi”, "Ang Darling Kong Aswang" and most “Shake, Rattle & Roll” – “Rosario” is clearly a work of note! Carlo Mendoza’s cinematography, Joey Luna’s production design and Albert Chang’s music all deserve (at the very least) a nomination. Now, the film eventually won 2^nd Best Picture – but you would somehow wonder why a festival’s 2^nd best doesn’t merit a best director nomination, right? Maybe this 2^nd Best Picture directed itself sans Mr. Martinez.

DISSERVICE TO MS. CES DRILON

I was so pleased with the crop of films shown at the Cinema One Festivals last November. Unfortunately for Cinema One Originals, it also spawned one of the year’s worst films: “Tsardyer” – a highly myopic representation of Ces Orena-Drilon’s kidnapping. Watching the film presented more questions as the narrative was told from the point of view of the hoodlums. Dimples Romana, an actress we like, appeared weak and almost inconsequential, we almost didn't care much if she gets hurt. This "re-enactment" was devoid of the insight that the story needed to be edifying or gratifying enough. It is a disservice to the execrable travails of Ms. Drilon.

In between scenes, mediocre songs would play out, shot a la music videos, to piece the narrative threads together, which was very alienating because, heaven knows, music videos are simply getting out of fashion, and they have no place in mainstream cinemas. Didn't you know: even MTV channel has done away with music videos? Performances were horrible: from the usually reliable Neil Ryan Sese, to the constipated turn of Shamaine Centenera (playing ABS CBN’s Maria Resa), right down to the hoodlums whose “nanlilisik ang mga mata” demeanor reminded me of those outdated Piling Piling Pelikula flicks of years gone by.

In several frames, their color palette were oversaturated, you’d think someone has overplayed with his Picasa! Even the sound was coarse and maladroit: fist fights sounded like bamboo sticks hitting down walls. The most flagrant sin in this elementary effort was its dubbing. In several scenes, you’d see the characters mouth the words, while the actual sound would come out 5 seconds later! Weren't these multiple out-of-sync scenes unnoticed at the editing/dubbing room during post-production? It was so distracting! Now if that isn't a case of sloppy, perfunctory film making, I dunno what is.

That it deserves a pat on the back for getting made? You wish!

Mindanao folks do not Tagalize common words like “charger” into its idiotic “tsardyer” so you kinda get a sense of the mind set of its makers. I was so glad I saw “Damgo ni Eleuteria” (Eleuteria’s Dream) later. It renewed my interest to finish all the entries last November. Otherwise, I would have been content sitting at home instead of paying for something as gag-worthy as “Tsardyer”.

Ces Drilon played by Dimples Romana in the elementary effort that felt like an over-extended music video collection.

ROBBED OFF AN AWARD

As mentioned earlier, I was so impressed with the crop of films shown at the Cinema One Festival last November, but one film was robbed off an award that rightfully belonged to them.

Best Cinematography went to “Ishmael” when it should have gone to Joaquin Valdes’ “Dagim”. I saw both films one after the other on the same day and the cinematography of “Ishmael” (one of my favorites from the festival) simply paled in comparison to “Dagim’s” cinematographic grandeur! People could debate about the artistic merits of each entry, but there’s not doubt in my mind about the incomparable excellence of Valdes’ camera work!

I saw “Dagim” first. By the time “Ishmael” screened, my visual senses were made acutely aware of its pixelated scenes and the uneven color grading of the seemingly (technically) unfinished “Ishmael”. Check out the long shots showing the fields at daylight and you could probably count the giant pixels staring before you. “Dagim” on the other hand boasted of crystal clear frames, even the night scenes and underlit shots bristle with clarity. It was all too obvious. Makes you wanna ask who were Cinema One’s visually-gifted judges? Were they blind? Were they dozing off while watching “Dagim”? Or were they simply intimidated by the youthful arrogant artistry of its makers? LOL

On point of narrative, “Ishmael” was a more cohesive work, with director Richard Somes once again effectively exploring themes on “alienation” and exploring the boundaries of people’s faith. Ronnie Lazaro inhabits his character with raw candor, giving the audience a sense of discomfort – the mere sight of his tattoos. The Tarantinoesque conclusion is something that deserves a bigger audience than Cinema One’s limited patrons.

Marc Abaya's mountain monster in "Dagim" (left) and Ronnie Lazaro's belligerent ex-convict in "Ishmael" (right).

Unexpectedly compelling "Ang Damgo ni Eleuteria" (Eleuteria's Dream) spectacularly shot in one full take! Damgo bravely tackles the chronology of displacement that eventually lead to a confoundingly funny, albeit ultimately wistful goodbye.

MOST BEAUTIFUL MELODIES IN A MUSICAL

One of 2010’s most ebullient stage productions is the re-staging of Gines Tan’s “Magsimula Ka!” It was fun to look back at the 80’s (Betamax? Metro Pop?) with such livid fun and the most glorious songs! Forget the naysayers who say it is “dated” (1980 should feel like the ‘80s – and that was 30 years ago!). The musical is a nostalgia piece. You can’t give it the veneer of “Rent” because it has a pre-millennial story. It's like saying "Kung Mangarap Ka't Magising", "Himala" or "Batch '81" are dated movies! On my part, I relished on some of the most melodic songs I've heard ever from any musical - foreign and local!

Mike Salomon, aka “DJ Myk”, is the star to watch! When he finally sang the anthemic “Magsimula Ka” at the end of the play, I was ready to rush to the stage and hug him. When other singers could have easily croaked from the song’s stratospheric excesses, Salomon was effortless, clear and pitch perfect! Congratulations to the whole cast and makers of “Magsimula Ka”. May your tribe increase!

Thank you, Tita Minnie, for the tickets - and for those delightful stilettos from Naples! I love you dearly. Kisses!

FADING IN OBLIVION

Sarah Geronimo’s “iDol” started out big! There were gimmicky extemporaneous dances in malls (MOA, Market Market) and people were looking forward to the local version of “Glee”. But then the ratings sagged. I wasn't too pleased watching Jovit Baldivino emoting; it was an unnerving watch. Even Geronimo’s millions of adoring fans didn't bother to watch the musical teleserye. From an earlier time slot, it moved to a later time slot and further down as it gradually faded in oblivion! It eventually closed shop 2 weeks or so before its scheduled sayonara. Tinaggal bigla - and no one noticed – simply because no one was watching!

Now I am curious where Ms. Geronimo’s gazillion of fans went? Ah yes, they were busy buying the products Sarah heavily peddled in the lukewarm “Hating Kapatid”. These days, she goes head on against the verbose and unapologetic Cristine Reyes whose Martha Cecilia's “Kristine” is enjoying its 3rd programming extension in ABS CBN’s late prime time.

iDol's sagging ratings, premature ending. They didn't care about Billie, Jean or Jovit!

Martha Cecilia's Kristine: enjoying its umpteenth program extension.

TROUBLESOME FANS

2010 also saw the rise of the arrogant and intrusive fan groups. These are the very same fans who give bouquets to talk show hosts who highlight the mediocrity of their favorite love teams. The very same fans who threaten to throw acid at would-be rivals. I’d say the NBI should teach these non-thinking dregs a lesson or two on why threatening against the safety of others should not be a preoccupation. Paging the saintly Kimerald fans!

IGNORE ME NOT!

Who could ignore Charice’s “invasion” into mainstream American entertainment? From a cameo in a hit-movie, “Alvin and the Chipmunks – The Squeakquel” (singing Alicia Key’s “No One“) to a high-flying Billboard Hit (“Pyramid”) – to a giddy season 2 opener in the hit TV show, “Glee”, Charice Pempengco is in Entertainment Heaven. And we are absolutely there with her! Though she hasn’t been seen in "Glee" after her fabulous duet (“Telephone”) and showstopping solo (“Listen”), she is bound to re-appear this February 2011, and the whole Philippines is holding his breath! Go, Charice!

Charice re-appears in "Glee" very soon.

FIGHTING A JAILBIRD

Manny Pacquiao is king of pugilists, but Floyd Mayweather Jr. begs to disagree. But you wonder why Mayweather keeps dodging the bullet, right? To add insult to injury, Mayweather and his father keep issuing statements that put down Pacquiao. In one such event, caught on video, he referred to Pacquiao, as “a yellow chump,” and even said “Once I stomp the midget, I’ll make that [expletive] make me a sushi roll and cook me some rice.” He further said, “I’m going to cook that [expletive] with cats and dogs. Have some rice with a little barbecue dog.” He also referred to Pacquiao by using a derogatory slang term for a homosexual. Now who is the congressman, and who is behind bars?

THE GOOSE THAT DIDN'T LAY GOLD

Why Regal films decided to field “Super Inday and the Magic Bibe” is beyond us. First of all, it unnecessarily exposes Marian Rivera to comparison with the formidable Maricel Soriano who originated the role. Second, “Super Inday” wasn’t even that big of a film during its time so why remake it now? A whole generation of viewers are not familiar with this 80s film.

It further exposed Marian Rivera to an unflattering comparison with her earlier superhero persona – “Darna”. As a viewer, why would you watch an obviously kitschy, inferior superhero? They must have banked on the “recall” of “Super Inday”, but if anything, it felt too passé’. Marian could have done a lot better with her more original “Nieves” – that aswang killer, which she also headlined successfully as part of a “Shake, Rattle and Roll” trilogy a few years ago. People would have remembered that better than “Super Inday” since that film made a lot of money. Fast forward to 2010’s Metro Filmfest – “Super Inday and the Magic Bibe” is among the festival’s tail enders, box office-wise. Not a good start for 2011. Tsk tsk!

Butch Francisco's best actress nominee, Marian Rivera is able but pales in comparison to the verve of Super Inday's predecessor, Ms. Maricel Soriano.

Marian Rivera as Nieves, the aswang slayer (left) and as Darna (right).

Say "Taj", Say "Raj" - And 2010's Most Wince-some & Winsome Moments - Part 1

Last year, part of our New Year’s Resolution for 2010 was to write our thoughts on every Tagalog film that would come out in commercial theaters within the year. This was our testament to “Tangkilikin ang Pelikulang Pilipino”. But “praising” them is another matter. We vowed to watch them, but also vowed to speak our mind about their merits (and demerits). After all, patronage should be deserved.

For the most part, I was successful with this resolution since, heck, I watch every ”gold and garbage” anyway. But sometime mid-November, we lost steam. The thought of writing reviews for “East of Paradise” and “Ika-Sampu” made us physically sick, so we decided to steer clear from writing about Tagalog movies until the end of the year, which was too bad since there were several flicks worthy of being read by some 600 page-reads that surprisingly visit this blogsite every single day (I dunno why)! Within a week, I shall come out with 2010’s best and worst performances. But for this post, we shall concentrate on the things that made us smile and those that made us wince uncomfortably on our seats.

SAY TAJ, SAY RAJ

We love Venus Raj and the way her lips stretch literally from “ear to ear” when she smiles. There is obviously nothing plasticine with the beauty queen. She is all wrapped in sincere victory. But way before she won her crown, she was introduced to us in TV shows as “Miss Venus Raj” pronounced the way “Raj” should be pronounced – with a “dz” (ra-dz) instead of the bothersome “silent j” (rah). But a few days before flying to Vegas for the Universe pageant, things changed. Raj became “Rah” – from TV Patrol monkeys all the way down to Boy Abunda, enunciating the “Raj” like they were gonna whoop out a cup of phlegm after saying “Raj”.

My reference here would be the more obvious origin – India!

India is home to the Taj Mahal and a popular actor Raj Kumar. Raj, the deceased veteran actor of some 70 films, is pronounced the way “J” should be – like “badge” and “fudge”. And try doing a silent “j” to the Taj Mahal. Pumunta kami ng “Tah-Mahal”. Pauso!

DUBIOUS LIST-MAKING

We like Ms. Joan Maglipon, head honcho of “Yes Magazine” and PEP entertainment website, because she is smart, mild mannered and respectable. She almost never resorts to mud slinging and muck wracking. However, her “Yes Magazine” has been coming out with dubious list-making. For Showbusiness’ “Most Beautiful Personalities”, who should emerge with the crown? Not the lovely Bea Alonzo, the smoldering Angel Locsin, the effervescent beauty of Maja Salvador, the angelic face of Marian Rivera – but the homely and pretty Primetime Princess, Kim Chiu!

This surprised us. Our friends chuckled. Kim is a pretty girl, and she has excessively rabid fans to boot, willing to throw acid at anyone who would stand in Ms. Chiu’s way, but “pretty” doesn’t necessarily cut “most beautiful”. No amount of success could circumvent physical beauty!

Unless their panel of “jurors” is a bunch of Glaucoma patients, I think it’s clear as the blue sky that the weepy girl-next-door Miss Chiu cannot hold a candle even to Kristine Hermosa or Cristine Reyes who should look like goddesses beside the wholesome Primetime Star. A popular TV series or a hit movie should never be a criteria for “beauty” when you’re saying “most beautiful” because, if that’s the case, why shouldn’t Vice Ganda win the plum? He has the “name” (Ganda) for it - and he is obviously the year’s break away star, isn’t he? And are you saying that Kim Chiu is more beautiful than Anne Curtis? Ah, Erwan ko sa inyo!

Kim Chiu as "most beautiful".

The less beautiful stars: Kristine Hermosa, Angel Locsin, Maja Salvador, Anne Curtis, Mariane Rivera, and the much-abused Bea Alonzo.

Within the same year, Yes also came out with their traffic-stopping “Power List” which listed Sharon Cuneta somewhere at the bottom of the Top 10 (#8, I think) while Claudine Barretto was at number 4. What gives? This was during a year when Barretto couldn’t even get a teleserye in her then-home studio. Her only claim to fame that time was a tv commercial, peddling “milk” and its food-pyramid. Thus her exodus to GMA 7! Of course, this eventually gave way to a vacuous flick, “In Your Eyes” that’s way inferior from her masterpieces in ABS-CBN.

But really now, Sharon Cuneta is a lesser star than Claudine? Do we live in an alternate universe? Some brains over at Yes need electro-convulsive therapy! Sharon Cuneta may look like a beached whale these days, eternally spouting “I lost 3 ½ pounds this week” – but this never dimmed her stature as The Megastar! And Ms. Cuneta is certainly not inferior to the spiteful and litigious Claudine Barretto, is she?

Sharon Cuneta and Claudine Barretto: At no decade is Barretto bigger than the Megastar!

QUEEN OF WHAT?

Kris Aquino should carefully consider doing away with titles and concentrate instead on her craft. She obviously doesn’t deserve the “Queen of All Media” tag when she can’t even make a new noontime show fly! And what kind of star are you (really!) when a few weeks after it opens, you are unceremoniously kicked out from the show?

Then there’s another tag – the “Horror Queen”! I am prone to agreeing with the latter. After all, watching Kris Aquino in “Dalaw” was horrifying! In the film, she has this constant look of dread way before things really start happening. She “indicates” more than “internalizes”. And newbies like the fantabulous Carla Abellana (of "Shake, Rattle & Roll 12's Punerarya") could teach our "queen" a thing or two about acting! Lest we forget, didn't she own "Massacre Queen" sometime in the past?

It is thus instructive to say that Ms. Aquino should just go back to her talk shows because people love her there. In fact I am such a “fan” – I love watching her make a fool of herself on national television, implying the possibilities of any romantic liaisons with Ted Failon and Mayor Junjun Binay – and even Diether Ocampo - as they fall under her spell! Just makes your skin crawl – with giddy delight, doesn’t it?

Romantic liaisons?

The face of fear? Constant anticipation of dread.

ROM-COM QUEEN

Toni Gonzaga deserves a title – “Rom-Com Queen”! I have always enjoyed her movies (except the despicable “My Only U”). She is a fun, frothy, compelling lead that makes romantic comedies such convivial vehicles. That Robin Padilla eventually decided to do away with a Toni movie is to his disadvantage because, let’s face it, what was Mr. Padilla's last blockbuster? Must have been a decade ago, right?

In Cathy Garcia-Molina's “My Amnesia Girl”, Toni was such an endearing presence (as events photographer Irene) and despite her scant chemistry with John Lloyd Cruz (as the runaway groom Pol), the audience rooted for the couple’s relationship to work. It was a heart-warming movie. If only they did away with about 50% of those cheesy lines that seemed fetching at first, but ultimately drowned you away into nausea! Next rom-com please!

Cute - and then the cheezy lines came flooding by!

THE NEWS THAT MATTERS

Noli de Castro’s return to television ("TV Patrol") heralds the return of a bygone era where watching news was imperative – believable, concise. Seeing Korina Sanchez beside him was like icing on the cake. Let’s just hope Ms. Sanchez does away with her over-the-top vendettas (remember when she was after doctors? That sent waves across the whole community of physicians all over the country!) because when Korina does news, people sit up and listen. She’s one of the voices that people believe when they hear. And doesn’t she look absolutely stunning these days?

Ted Failon completes this powerhouse trio, and I am tickled pink with Failon’s relaxed, albeit playful demeanor these days. When De Castro finally mouthed his signature, “Magandang Gabi, Bayan” – I had goosebumps! I dearly miss Karen Davila from primetime news though.

SINGING SWEETHEART

Shalani Soledad finally finds a voice! I am not a fan of Willie Revillame. For me, he is just one arrogant twat who found a pot of gold at the end of the ABS CBN rainbow, then wanted to pompously move his gold elsewhere. When Revillame eventually recruited Ms. Soledad for his TV show at ABC-5, I was one of the many who would sneak away (momentarily) from my news to watch how Shalani would fare. Let me just say, it wasn’t flattering, but people forgive her mostly because we somehow knew how she was treated by an ex-boyfriend who seemed not too proud of her presence.

We recently heard Shalani’s duet with Revillame – she was surprisingly “on the note” and her vocal calisthenics blended melodiously with Revillame’s digitized hoarseness. Revillame’s “Ikaw Na Nga” suddenly becomes a serviceable ballad! Atta girl, Miss Soledad. You deserve a good looking prince!

Shalani Soledad's melodic singing.

UNEVEN PORTRAYAL

One of the last indies shown last year was Adolf Alix’s “Karera” which follows LV (or Elvie), a woman who operates an illegal betting station from Sta. Ana’s horse races. Laurice Guillen plays a mother of 3 wayward souls: Daisy (Rosanna Roces) is on the run from her gangster boss; Ace (Jay Manalo) takes measures to sabotage the performance of his horses to rig the race; and Dindo (Joem Bascon) couldn’t keep his dick off somebody else’s daughter (Mercedes Cabral).

Like most “serious” Alix flicks, the camera would laboriously follow his characters in real time, reminiscent of “Adela”. Unfortunately, the story is never compelling. You just didn't care about them, which goes to show that not all stories are worth telling. What ultimately fails the movie is the choice of the actress playing Elvie – Laurice Guillen!

There were moments of pure genius: the opening scene where Elvie attends an El Shaddai prayer rally then on her way home, she gets mugged – and possibly raped (it was too dark to be sure) – then she comes home in the morning with mud on her clothes, as she visits her son at the horse’s stable. Her face is an avalanche of expression. Unfortunately, when the scenes show her manning her betting station, she appeared “too refined” to be believable, and you’re suddenly made acutely aware that Guillen is just going through the motions because this, after all, is new territory! You just knew this part could be portrayed better by the likes of Gina Pareno or Cherry Pie Picache! A patchy, uneven performance doesn't deserve a "best of the year" citation.

We watched “Karera” at SM Megamall at its 3^rd screening hour (between 4-5PM, I think) and I was its one and only audience! I could have done a strip tease there and wasted my sensuality on no one. LOL

Patchy, uneven portrayal in a film with a story that isn't worth telling.

Part 2 of 2010's Most Wince-some & Winsome Moments up next.