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Piolo advised to slow down in film production

Author: Nestor Cuartero
Column: MovieGoer

JUST A THOUGHT: When wealth is lost, nothing is lost. When health is lost, something is lost. When character is lost, all is lost.

MOVIE VETERANS concerned with the career and welfare (including finances) of Piolo Pascual are wondering why he's venturing into film production at this point. The movie industry has not shown much profitability. On the other hand, cost of production has not dipped while the market has not expanded.

Against this backdrop, Piolo has financed the production of an independent film called 'Manila,' shot at a budget of over 10 million pesos, not including expenses incurred when the film was brought for exhibition in a non-competitive section at the recently held Cannes Film Festival in France.

Piolo joked during a recent meet-up that he has depleted his savings while producing the film. Movie veterans admit it will be difficult for the actor to recoup his investment, aware of the obtaining movie industry situation and the apparent indie nature (meaning, non-commercial appeal) of 'Manila.'

'Manila' is a twinbill of film tributes to Lino Brocka and Ishmael Bernal by young directors Raya Martin and Adolfo Alix, Jr.. The film is a remake of sorts of the two directors' classic works, 'Jaguar' and 'Manila By Night' (City After Dark).

Piolo stars in both episodes, supported by an array of topnotch character actors, among them Rosanna Roces, Jay Manalo, Alessandra de Rossi. The film formally opened Cinemalaya Cinco at the CCP last Friday.

At a recent conference, Piolo denied he was now turning his back on formula films churned out by his home studio, Star Cinema. He said he was doing indies like Manila as a breather to what he normally does but won't rule out appearing in commercial films.

'Let's just say I'm experimenting,' he said. Piolo also said he was willing to expand his borders, getting out of the box to prove his artistry. He didn't say if he was willing to do gay roles, however.

Piolo's boldness in producing indie films has gone as far as launching the first starrer of Eugene Domingo, whom he tapped for the title role in the now-filming 'Kimi Dora.' The comedy drama also stars Dingdong Dantes.

One wonders where Piolo's film-producing moments will take him. Producing movies is just like gambling in the Philippines, where the market is very uncertain.

Many times, producers lose their investments. Piolo must watch out for his spur of the moment decision to become a film producer. He is, after all, parting with hard-earned money. His handlers must advise him whether or not his film production ventures will either benefit his career in the long run, or distress it. The public can see for itself (and so will Piolo) with the showing soon of 'Manila.'s

Source: Tempo