Brickman dedicates a song to the Philippines

By Nickie Wang

For the modern-day Filipino language, “Noche Pacifica” does not sound very local. But nobody could dismiss the idea that it is still very Filipino in a sense that even average people can understand the meaning of it and sure American pianist Jim Brickman couldn’t think of any other phrase to describe his impression of the country.

“Noche Pacifica” is one of the title tracks included in Jim Brickman’s latest work entitled Beautiful World, an album for Universal Records.

According to the American pianist, the song “Noche Pacifica” (Peaceful Night) is inspired by his visit in the country five years ago. While touring the Philippines, he was comforted by the distinct Filipino hospitality offered in a cruise ship that took him to Cebu, Palawan and Boracay.

“I’ve had concert tours here in the Philippines and the idea of peaceful night came about when I met some really good Filipino friends who were cruising with me,” Brickman shared when asked about the song during a press conference held at Eastwood Mall.

Brickman, who revolutionized the sound of adult contemporary music with his pop-style solo piano, was here in the country to stage a one-night concert at the Eastwood Mall Open on Oct. 28.

The romantic musical event is part of Brickman’s 75-city Beautiful World Concert Tour that aims to promote the latest album that contains 21 tracks including a collaboration with Asia’s Romantic Balladeer Christian Bautista (the track is available only in the Philippine edition of the CD).

Respect for Filipino talent

Jim Brickman is always been attracted to the Philippines. According to him, he pays high respect and admiration to local singers most especially with the people whom he has worked with like Lea Salonga, Sharon Cuneta, Pops Fernandez, Erik Santos (who is embarking on a Asia-wide tour to promote The Jim Brickman Songbook) Martin Nievera, Agot Isidro and Ariel Rivera.

“I’ve said this before that everybody in the Philippines can sing. It’s not just plain singing but really good singing,” the pianist affirmed and continued that if given a chance, he would want to collaborate with Regine Velasquez.“I heard her singing my songs and I would love to work with her.”

Brickman considers ballad hits “Valentine,” “The Gift,” and “Destiny” as his career highlights. Little did he know that for most hopeless romantic Filipinos, these songs practically serve as part of their life as well. This is one of the reasons why his songs are oftentimes being performed by local artists.

“One of the reasons why my music finds success is because my music is intended to be shared with people. And there are so many people who can easily relate with the message of the songs I compose,” the Cleveland native responded when asked about his sentiment when people sing his songs.

Beautiful World

The new album is inspired by Jim’s unique gift of bridging borders and cultural divides through his music.

“It takes inspiration to the places where I travel,” Brickman explained, “I had released 20 albums and this one is very special because it tells about the wonderful opportunities I get from traveling around the world.”

The Grammy-nominated artist is ecstatic with the new album. He even said that he is proud to promote the album because of the universal messages it convey. Among the tracks in the CD, “Free To Fly” is his personal favorite.

“The message is simple, it’s about being free to take whatever path you want to take in your life,” he said.

The new CD showcases the brand-new song “Beautiful World [We’re All Here]” interpreted by Adam Crossley. It also features the all-star collaboration of the artist with Jon Secada, Melinda Doolittle, Orla Fallon, Mark Masri and Anne Cochran in “What The World Needs Now Is Love.”

Brickman has been known for working together with gifted vocal talents like Martina McBride, Michael W. Smith, Michael Bolton, Lady Antebellum, Carly Simon, Donny Osmond and others.

Streaming Brillante’s flicks

By Nickie Wang

Brillante Mendoza has directed nine films since he started making movies in 2005. Three of these films (Tirador, Foster Child, Masahista) were exhibited at the Cannes Film Festival, and two others (Serbis and Kinatay) were part of the main competition.

To win best director award at Cannes Film Festival, which is considered as one of the oldest and most prestigious film festivals in the world, is not an ordinary achievement. The honor puts his name alongside the best filmmakers in the world like Quentin Tarantino and Ang Lee.

Recently, Brillante’s film Kinatay received two more awards at the Sitges International Film Festival in Spain. The director wanted to receive the Best Director and Best Original Soundtrack trophies but he was in Paris on the day of the awards night. He was having a meeting with a big film outfit that is willing to distribute his film Kinatay commercially.

Up to this day, Brillante’s works still receive mixed reviews. But isn’t it called a success when a film elicited different reactions from critics and viewers because it made them think?

At the moment, Brillante’s goal is to continue making movies that attract viewers. After Lola, a film about two elderly women coping with the harsh realities of life, his next project might be about the Abu Sayyaf.

“What is important for me right now is to generate audience for independent films. We all know that indies have limited audience so my goal is to encourage people to watch them,” Brillante said at the launching of MyDSL Watchpad.

Watchpad, according to PDLT officials, is a broadband innovation that allows MyDSL subscribers to watch some of the hottest channels and TV shows for free, surf the Net, play online games, and update Facebook, Multiply and Twitter accounts, all in one page (without closing any of the applications).

Brillante’s films are highlighted at the launching of the streaming technology featured on Watchpad called myFlicks. Some of the films that are shown on Watchpad are Serbis, Twilight Dancers, Masahista, Manoro and Foster Child.

For the question of censorship, Dan Ibarra, head of retail business group of PLDT, said that these films are shown based on the approval of Movie and Television Review and Classification Board. He added that since Watchpad employs streaming technology, downloading or pirating these featured movies can be prohibited.

Soon, other highly-acclaimed films from more of the country’s premier filmmakers and directors will be featured on Watchpad.

Aside from this streaming feature, there are also about 15 cable channels available on Watchpad. Some of them are MTV, Voom HDTV, Go Channel, PBO, CNBC, CNN, Animax, Cartoon Network, National Geographic, among others. Indeed, there’s something for everyone.

“Watchpad has a very rich content and it marks our entry to the realm of multimedia. We are providing our subscribers access to multimedia because we would like to give them unique experience. And that sets us apart from our competitors. Our vision is to showcase quality works. We are always partner with brilliance,” Ibarra expressed.

Along with the launch of Watchpad, PLDT also announces another news from PLDT Budget Card. Subscribers who use Budget Card can now enjoy reduced call rate to US and Canada. From P3, call rate has been reduced by 50 percent to P1.50 per minute.

1st PMPC Star Awards for Music Winners

Winners (from left): Jmore, Maricris Garcia, Rachelle Ann Go, Jed Madela, Regine Velasquez, Sarah Geronimo, and Myrus (Image By: Chris Cahilig)

The Philippine Movie Press Club (PMPC) held the very first Star Awards for Music on October 29, which aims to pay tribute to the best artists on the local music scene.

The event was hosted by Billy Crawford and Toni Gonzaga.

Here is the complete list of winners:

Album of the Year

Your Universe – Rico Blanco (Warner Music)

Song of the Year

Ikaw ang Aking Pangarap – Martin Nieverra, Ikaw Ang Aking Pangarap (EMI Records)

Male Recording Artist

Ogie Alcasid, Great Filipino Song Book (Universal Records)

Female Recording Artist

Regine Velasquez, Low Key (Universal Records)

Duo/Group Artist

MYMP, Now (Ivory Records)

Music Video

Pambansang Kamao, Director: Ace Villena, Performed by: D’Coy (Wika Records)

Dance Album

Delisciosa, Mocha Girls (Viva Records)

Pop Album

Ikaw Na Nga, Willie Revillame (Star Records)

Male Pop Artist

Jed Madela, Songs Rediscovered 2 (Universal Records)

Female Pop Artist

Sarah Geronimo, OPM (Viva Records)

Alternative Album

Biyaya, Bayang Barrios (Star Records)

Revival Album

Falling In Love, Rachel Ann Go (Viva Records)
Low Key, Regine Velasquez (Universal Records)

New Female Recording Artist

Maricris Garcia, Mahal Kita (GMA Records)

New Male Recording Artist

Bugoy Drilon, Paano na Kaya (Star Records)
Jmore Self Titled (LDG Prod. & Ent. Recording Co. & Galaxy Records)

Album Cover Design

“Complicated” Cover Concept – Andrew Castillo, Artist-Gretchen Barretto (Star Records)

Compilation Album

Lovelife, Boy Abunda (Star Records)

Acoustic Album

Back to Basics, Paolo Santos (Ivory Music)

Acoustic Artist

Aiza Seguerra, Open Arms (Star Records)
Sabrina, I Love Acoustic (Universal Records)

Rock Album

Long Time Noisy, Kamikazee (Universal Records)

Rock Artist

Kamikazee, Long Time Noisy (Universal Records)

R & B Album

Groove, Billy Joe Crawford (Universal Records))

R & B Artist

Billy Crawford, Groove (Universal Records)

Learning from ‘Ocean Deep’ cover singer

By Nickie Wang

If listening to the radio is your pasttime, you may have heard of the latest cover version of “Ocean Deep,” a song popularized by Cliff Richard. And most probably, you’re also one of those listeners who wondered whether Leah Salonga has just released a new single, or it’s just another upcoming artist with a voice similar to the Broadway star.

If you have an exceptional hearing sense, then you would consider the latter. But the singer of the song is not just any other upcoming artist; she is a veteran in music if we would go over her credentials. Her name is Michelle, Michelle Nikki Junia in real life. She’s been around using the name Nikki J. and now has decided to use her first name.

“Not for a change but simply just a decision. After all it’s part of my real name, and I’m more comfortable being called Michelle. Besides there are so many Nikkis in the business, including you,” Michelle said, referring to myself.

Michelle has just released an album called Back In Time with “Ocean Deep” as a carrier single. We recently had a chance to hear the singer performing the song live when we were invited to watch the music video directed by filmmaker and screenplay writer Charlotte Dianco. The MV features hunk model Luke Jickain. It is a short film-like MV wherein the visual images fairly interpreted the lyrics.

The album includes Michelle’s rendition of classic standards like “Constantly,” “Teacher’s Pet,” “Secret Love,” “It’s Now Or Never,” medley of “Are You Lonesome Tonight?,” “Love Me Tender,” “Can’t Help But Fall In Love,” and a “Kettle Mata” original composition titled “Lambing.”

Reluctant star

“I’ve wanted to release an album, but it’s only now that I feel more into it because I’m emotionally mature to interpret songs that talk about love and heartbreak,” said Michelle, who used to be a member of Ryan Cayabyab-trained vocal band 14K.

Michelle’s passion for music is not concentrated to establishing her name in the mainstream music. She opted to remain low key doing corporate shows and occasional concerts. She has staged sold-out concerts at Teatrino Theater and Bar, and Music Museum in Greenhills this year alone.

“Every singer wants to break into mainstream music, I also want it. If that opportunity comes then I would be very thankful but if not, I will still continue doing what keeps me happy and contented,” the singer, who regards Leah Salonga as her ultimate musical influence, said.

Amid her anonymity among the masses, Michelle has a captive audience that continuously supports her career, or more appropriately her passion. In addition to that, the reluctant star has performed in prestigious venues abroad including the world-renowned Carnegie Hall in New York, and some other concert venues around Asia .

Inspiration

As a cum laude graduate at the University of Sto. Tomas Conservatory of Music, Michelle has the ability to share her talent with aspiring singers. Aside from performing live, she is also passionate in honing young talents who want to learn the proper technique in singing.

“A good singer is not the one who belts every time he or she sings. It’s a matter of knowing your range and singing within it. Some people have this impression that a child who belts and reaches the high notes is the better singer. That’s not the real measure,” Michelle explained.

Michelle started training when she was nine years old, and now as a music guru, she imparts what she has learned by operating a music school called Stardev Music Studio. The school is located in BF Homes, Parañaque.

“I’ve been doing this since I was 15 [years old], and it’s inspiring when I hear my students improving. It’s the rewarding part of honing young talents because they practice the things I’m sharing with them,” the US-licensed music educator shared.

Michelle recently finished training in early childhood music education in Chicago, Illinois, and now a licensed trainer for Musikgarten, a music school that promotes early musical literacy, language development, and social interaction.

She also privileged to be trained in LA by Seth Riggs. Riggs is one of the most sought-after mentors of late Michael Jackson and some A-listers on the American music scene like Madonna, Michael Bolton, Barbra Streisand, Stevie Wonder, to name a few.

Reliving Basia’s music at the Big Dome

By Nickie Wang

“A musician is different from a singer,” and to paraphrase the words of Ryan Cayabyab, the dilemma of aging singers when they perform is that the audiences distinguish the striking changes in their appearance and vocal quality, but when an aging musician performs, they begin to love the artist even more.

Polish singer-songwriter and record producer Basia was in town and successfully staged a one-night concert at the Araneta Coliseum last Oct. 21.

The sold-out concert at the Big Dome opened with The CompanY. The quintet performed some songs popularized by Quincy Jones and The Manhattan Transfer.

Ten minutes before 9 p.m. Basia and her band took center stage and went straight performing “It’s That Girl Again,” “If Not Now Then When,” and “Drunk On Love.” After finishing the last song, it was the only time when the performer greeted the thousands of people who flocked to the venue.

A mesmerizing show

At the apogee of her career in the ’80s and early ’90s, Basia was able to establish herself as an international artist releasing timeless hits like “Time and Tide” and “Promises,” and other Latin-flavored jazz-pop crossover songs.

Basia still has a strong following in the country despite being in hiatus for 15 years. Yet, being away from the music scene, she was able to release a live album and three other compilations. Many people like her music primarily because of her strong yet melodic vocals, not to mention her being an excellent songwriter.

In a black corporate attire, a white blouse topped with a black coat matched with a long pearl necklace, we hardly recognized Basia when she graced the stage.

“Is that Basia already?” we overheard Ryan Cayabyab who was seated almost in front of us.

For the second set of songs, she belted out “Reward,” “Baby You’re Mine,” and a song from the new album called “Blame It On the Summer.” She sang them with much ease as if she was just talking. However, when she hit the high notes, she struggled to reach them. She still has it though but not as perfect as her three-octave range at the height of her career.

When the audience heard a familiar introduction of a song, they clapped their hands attuned with it. The rich sound complemented with good acoustics in the venue was perfect for Basia’s “How Dare You.” “It’s a song from my first album,” she said and moved to another song called “A Gift,” which she introduced as a romantic song, “It’s a love song because love is a gift.”

She sang “Run For Cover” before going to the backstage to change her outfit. The band remained playing. Basia’s backup singers, twins from Mauritius, performed “Astrud” and “From Now On.” The newest member of the band, Jojo, an Italian guitarist, did a little exhibition playing his own composition.

After that act, Basia was back on the stage in a knee-length black dress and black leggings and performed a song entitled “Rachelle.”

“I’m not sure if you knew that I used to be a member of band called Matt Bianco. I did a few songs with them and I would like to sing it for you. Although it’s a sad song, I want you to hear it,” she said, referring to that UK band in which she was the vocalist. She then sang the breakup song, “Half A Minute.”

As a musician, Basia always attempted to keep her music relevant. Her ability to stay musically relevant reflected on the new arrangement of her songs like “Cruising,” “Miles Away,” and “Time and Tide” (the crowd made a resounding applause when she did these numbers).

She ended the last set with a song she dedicated to her country called “Copernicus.”

The encore

When Basia and her band came back on stage after the final set, the musician was almost teary-eyed while thanking all the people who kept on shouting “more!” and chanting “Promises… promises!” When we moved our heads we saw some familiar personalities like Vicki Belo and son Quark Henares, Jacky Aquino, Joey of Side A, and Senator Mar Roxas (without Korina Sanchez) joining the chant.

To satisfy the eager fans who were already up on their feet, Basia said, “Okay, but you’ve got to help me on this one,” and sang “Waters of March” and the final number “Promises.”

Even at the age of 55, Basia (Barbara Trzetrzelewska in real life) proves that she is never too old to stage a live performance. And probably, the applauses and cheers served as motivations for the Jazz Diva to “bring it on.”

Jazz music is not popular among young generation, it was obvious among the people who attended the concert, but sure they do know what bossa nova is. Although the latter’s structure is heavily influenced by jazz, returning artists like Basia hopefully can inspire local bossa nova singers to come up with original materials that would soon make them as timeless as the Polish artist.

Borrowing what Ryan Cayabyab told us again: “Local artists need to sell that’s why they do covers, but if they want to be known even after 10 years, they need to come up with original materials because that’s the only way. Like Basia, she looks and sounds different now, but she’s a musician and she’s singing her own music that’s why we still love her. That’s the difference.”

Basia is just one of those foreign musicians that keep the country’s big venues for concert performances alive. Don’t they pose as a challenge or at least an inspiration to our local artists?

Jacko at Resorts World Manila

By Nickie Wang

Michael Jackson is alive and kicking, at least through the impersonation of Kenny Wizz who is considered as one of the best Michael Jackson tribute artists in the world.

The King of Pop impersonator is in Manila doing a series of live performances at Resorts World Manila, a newly-opened prime destination for entertainment and casino enthusiasts. The complex is situated right across the Naia terminal 3.

Resorts World Manila is the largest casino complex in the Philippines located in Pasay’s Newport City, a tourism estate that houses Marriott Hotel and two other luxury hotels. It is co-owned by tycoon Andrew Tan and Genting Berhad Group of Malaysia.

We were invited to see Wizz’s show on Oct. 20, and the same act will be staged tonight at the very same venue, which is the bar right in the middle of the casino. The stage is a round five-foot high platform surrounded by a counter that serves liquors and non-alcoholic drinks.

When we arrived at the venue, the Russian act called St. Petersburg Sensation was already performing onstage. The group is composed of seven tall and slender women and two masculine men doing some pole, cabaret, and feather fan dances. With its perfectly-choreographed presentation, you would even think that you’re watching a show in Vegas or in Macau, not to mention that the place actually emanates with a world-class atmosphere.

After the Russian act, the emcee went around the bar and asked three people to come up onstage to do the moonwalk and the Thriller dance routines. Then after imitating these famous Michael Jackson’s signature moves, the emcee introduced the performer of the hour who came all the way from Las Vegas.

He kicked off the show with “Jam,” a song from Jackson ’s Dangerous album. Wearing a gold body suit over his black pants, Wizz began entertaining the audience and gamers with “Scream,” “Smooth Criminal” and “Human Nature.” He went down just on the side of the stage to change his outfit. Half a minute later, he went back in the middle of the platform to do the “Black and White” number. The crowd made a loud cheer when he did “Billy Jean” and a dance exhibition complete with crotch grabs and pelvic thrust acts to the tune of Mary J. Blige’s “Family Affair.” Wizz was performing alongside with local backup dancers.

Reliving the Michael Jackson experience, Wizz crooned and strutted with some of the artist’s classic hits like “Gone Too Soon,” “Beat It” and “Remember the Time.” He further energized the audience with a production number of “Thriller.” The live performance was similar to the famous music video featuring choreographed zombies performing with him. The tribute artist concluded the show with Jackson’s 1995 controversial composition “They Don’t Care About Us.”

The whole performance was close to having the real Michael Jackson in the flesh. Jackson and Wizz have striking similarities (both physically and vocally) that make the latter the best if not the perfect tribute artist to relive the music of the legendary King of Pop.

Wizz has starred in his tribute to Michael Jackson for over six years on the Strip in Las Vegas. Because of his resemblance with Jacks he even did some important parts in the movie This Is It, a concert film documenting Michael Jackson’s rehearsals of the concert series of the same name, both on stage and behind the scenes. Kenny Wizz is scheduled to stay in Manila for a series of shows until Oct. 29.

Artist's impression of Newport City in Pasay

Cesar Montano charms thousands of Zamboangueños

By Nickie Wang

If the elections were held on Oct. 11 in Zamboanga, and Cesar Montano was running for a political post in the province, he would have possibility won the majority of people’s vote.

But the big day was an annual festival and not a political event. It only so happen that thousands of Zamboangueños were celebrating the culmination of Hermosa Festival, and Buboy (as he is fondly called in showbiz) was fortunate enough to be the man of the day. In fact, Defense secretary and presidential aspirant Gilbert Teodoro was also there, but resounding cheers by a ten thousand crowd for Buboy was simply a tough act for him to follow.

Buboy arrived in Zamboanga City early morning. He flew all the way from Cebu to meet the entertainment press in Zamboanga International Airport. Right at the airport, we couldn’t help but to stay on the side and just follow Buboy because almost everyone there was cheering Buboy’s name, they even chanted Singing Bee, Singing Bee.

The title of the primetime program had become some sort of a mantra that morning. That alone proves that the actor and host is a prominent personality, he is indeed a superstar.

He went to Zamboanga not to do an early campaigning; he is not even eyeing any government seat in the place because he has already expressed his intention to run as governor in Bohol.

Apart from joining the locals in celebrating the annual festival, Buboy was in the province to have an official visit at the canning factory of Ayala Seafoods Corp., maker of Mega Sardines.

After a hearty breakfast in a hotel in Zamboanga City, Mega Fishing vice president for sales and marketing Mark Tiu Lim, who was with us attending to our every small need, discussed the activities ahead of us that day.

First pit stop

Having set the standard for excellence throughout the years, Mega Sardines has been the recipient of many major certifications in the industry. Ayala Seafoods Corp. is a HACCP compliant and USFDA approved, not to mention being the only local sardines canning factory that is EU and ISO accredited.

Buboy almost served us as our tour guide when we arrived at Mega Pier in Cawit (yes, the Mega Fishing owns a pier and 55 fishing vessels equipped with sonar fish finders).  He directed us to the state-of-the-art fish pump that hauls tons of tamban fish from the fishing vessels and into the thermal bins, meaning there’s no manual work involved. Mega Fishing has this unique process called “from catching to canning.” And we saw how the company performs the process.

At the pier, Buboy was mobbed by fans and employees. The actor stayed for a while for the people who were asking to shake his hands and take pictures with him. The actor greeted them with small talks and all smiles.

Chilling inside the ice plant

After the tour at the pier, we headed to the ice plant. According to Tiu Lim, the company had to build its own ice plant to accommodate the demands of the whole factory. Mega Fishing solves its problem in big possible ways (before a pier, now an ice plant, tin can production might be the next). The plant is the biggest in Mindanao and supports local ice demand in Zamboanga.

Then, we headed to the canning factory. As usual, Buboy was mobbed by excited employees waiting for him. We thought that the factory has a different sound that echoes throughout the plant. But when we got inside the factory, we found out that the machines were actually quite and the strange sound we heard from the outside was the cheers of hundreds of employees that couldn’t help but scream even with just a glimpse of Buboy who was the first one to enter the factory,

Dolly Anne Carvajal, Nickie Wang, and Manila Bulletin's Kaye Villagomez

Right inside the canning area, we saw how the fish are packed and cooked, and how sanitation and hygiene are strictly observed along the process. We had to wear a suit similar to the gown worn by doctors and nurses (as described by the author who wore it), a cap with hair net, and a pair of boots. Before entering the area, we were asked to wash our hands and remove jewelry or anything small in our body that might fall inside the cans (who would want a diamond earring in his sardines?).

Confident about how the factory operates business, one of the officials told us that anyone can visit the plant and have a tour inside the canning facility anytime. The official even said that Ayala Seafoods is the only sardines’ factory that allows guests to see the nobbing process (removal of heads and tails) up to the cooking and packing of the product.

When we were told that Mega Sardines is the best in the market, we were quite skeptical. We were told that once we have toured the whole place, and compared the taste and quality of other brands, Mega Sardines will be the only sardines we would tell our families to buy (the author did when he got back in Manila).

Buboy’s dream for Bohol

After about two hours of touring the entire plant, we had the chance to have a small chat with Cesar Montano before he headed to a parade (but we still accompanied him in the motorcade). He was still accommodating despite being under the sun for hours, talking to a lot of people and the usual picture taking opportunities with eager fans.

Buboy is determined to run as governor in the island province of Bohol in 2010 elections. He will be up against congressmen from the province who are in their last terms. “The incumbent vice governor of Bohol is also a strong rival,” he said.

In a previous interview with the Standard Today, the actor said, “The island of Bohol is a tourist zone, I’m in [the] film business. Movie is a great and a very powerful medium to elevate the tourism of an island.”

Now Buboy’s plans for the province expands by including building decent hospitals, regulating the fishing industry, and focusing on upgrading the education system.

“I want to bring the quality education in Manila to Bohol, and hopefully we could build more preparatory schools. One of the problems in Bohol is the unregulated fishing in some marine sanctuaries. Alam naman nating nakakaapekto ito sa marine ecosystem ng probinsiya. Ilan yan sa mga gusto kong pagtuunan ng pansin kung sakaling mahalal sa pwesto.”

His gubernatorial bid is his second attempt to enter politics. Buboy, Cesar Manhilot in real life, failed to secure a senatorial seat in 2007. After formally filing his certificate of candidacy, Buboy will have to leave Singing Bee, his current television show aired every Saturday and Sunday.

“It’s so sad because we are extended for another season and I have to quit showbiz for the mean time to dedicate my time campaigning,” he said.

Apart from his political plan, Buboy is busy with the pre-production process of his two films, one being Dagohoy and the other one a drama movie.

Members of the Entertainment Press in a junket in Zamboanga (from left): Mario Dumaual, Lea Salterio, Kaye Villagomez, Salve Asis, Ian Fariñas, Shirley Pizzaro, Dolly Anne Carvajal, Bot Glorioso, Jojo Panaligan, and Nickie Wang (Image: Ian Fariñas)

Gossipy facts about ‘Gossip Girl’

By Nickie Wang

Humans are natural eavesdroppers. Whether we admit it or not, we like to peek into someone else’s life. Don’t we get our daily dose of gossips by the time we turn on the television, browse the Internet, or read the newspaper?

Teen drama Gossip Girl is more likely just like about that, peeking into the life of privileged teenagers attending an elite private school in New York City’s Upper East Side. Narrated by the omniscient yet unseen blogger “Gossip Girl,” voiced by Kristen Bell, the program is set to give more juicy revelations.

The famous American television series is currently airing on ETC Entertainment Central with a new season, which calls for an all-new set of sparkling gossip.

Now that high school is over for most of the Upper East Siders, a totally different world of scandals, love, and juicy secrets await the leading characters before they enter college. Since Gossip Girl aired in the Philippines just days after the series premiered in the US, Filipino Gossip Girl avid fans can really follow the developments and they won’t be left behind by their American counterparts. As a matter of fact, local followers of the series are even ahead in latest gossips about the program compared to the fans in United Kingdom and Australia.

In recent developments, famous celebrities like Hilary Duff and Joanna Garcia (oh she’s not really famous) have confirmed that they will be joining the series for some multi-episode guestings. America’s Top Model host Tyra Banks appears in one of the program’s episodes.

Season 2 closed with Blair (Leighton Meester) and Chuck (Ed Westwick) finally getting together. Season 3, on the other hand, opened with Blair and Chuck in opposite directions.

Serena (Blake Lively) has got herself some explosive secrets to lock and keep. After spending summer in Europe, shopping and being followed around by the paparazzi, she enters Brown University with a brand-new self. Her transformation is quite puzzling but a visit from a bad boy named Carter Baizen (Sebastian Stan) may finally reveal some answers.

Rich boy Nate (Chace Crawford) has got some new romance brewing, Serena headed down the wrong path for love, and Dan (Penn Badgley) is welcomed by New York University.

In Manhattan, Jenny (Taylor Momsen) finally gets the Queen Bee status, her dad Rufus (Matthew Settle) got engaged to Lily (Kelly Rutherford) which means she gets to tag along the Upper East Side Penthouse address.

Georgina (Michelle Trachtenberg) visits Dan in New York and turns his world upside down. Tagging along NYU, Vanessa (Jessica Szohr) has been spending a lot of time with a mysterious stranger. Whew, can’t we get enough of these young people?

Latest episodes of Gossip Girl 3 air exclusively on ETC every Tuesday at 8 p.m. ETC is available on SBN channel 21, SkyCable channel 16, Global Destiny cable channel 28, Cable Link channel 48 and also on MyTV.

Cinemanila: Haven for young filmmakers

By Nickie Wang

Independently-produced films do not earn much, most of the time they are not even close to breaking even. But why is that” indies” still proliferate in the country? Are we really trying to prove or profile the Philippine cinema as the new mecca of independent films?

Anita Linda in Brillante Mendoza's Lola

Producing “indies” is not about business. To most independent filmmakers, “It’s more of a passion.” Yet, their passion only pays off when their films are recognized abroad, but it is not always the case. Not all “indies” are acknowledged overseas.

“It’s been years of struggle. We are called independent because we are critics, and we remain on the side because it’s the only place where we can freely do our job. We can’t do that if we’re part of the mainstream,” film director Jon Red (no relation to this section’s editor) told the press at the launch of 11th Cinemanila International Film Festival.

Red is among the new breed of filmmakers whose main objective is not to earn a fortune but to stand by their objective, which is to support local cinema and the people working behind it. His black comedy film Ang Beerhouse, produced by seasoned actors Joel Torre and Ronnie Lazaro, is one of the finalists in this year’s festival under Digital Lokal category.

Independent films are fearless, they are brave in telling stories that mainstream movies cannot liberally discuss or feature. But more often than not, indies revolve and talk about only the same themes. If they don’t tackle about [homo] sexuality, they talk about the ills of the society.

For Armando “Bing” Lao, whose film Biyaheng Lupa is also one of the finalists under the category Digital Lokal, intentions of filmmakers reflect on the types of film they make.

“We have different intentions as filmmakers, for me we are critics of our time, that’s why we talk about poverty. Our films are like history books, they mirror the environment.”

Cinemanila festival director Tikoy Aguiluz supported the statements of the two film directors by saying that the festival has featured movies that are not escapists. He brought up that since the festival started in 1999, it has featured movies that essay realities.

Competing films

A total of 37 films are competing in this year’s festival under the Main Competition, Digital Lokal (Philippine digital feature films in competition), Young Cinema Section (Philippine shorts in competition), and SEA Shorts (Southeast Asian shorts in competition). A total of 100 international and local films will be screened in the festival for a span of 10 days in different venues in Taguig City (Market! Market!, Fully Booked’s U View, and Bonifacio High Street).

Cinemanila's closing film Himpapawid

Cannes Best Director Brillante Mendoza opened the festival on Oct. 15 with the screening of his latest film, Lola. While, Palme d’Or winner Raymond Red’s first major film in nine years, Himpapawid, will close the festival on Oct. 25.

With Anita Linda in the leading role, Lola is about two old women who try to cope and survive life’s harsher realities for the elderly. On the other hand, Himpapawid follows the tale of a desperate man who hijacks a plane.

The competing films for the main competition are: Independencia (Philippines); Mammoth (Sweden); Ricky (France); Tulpan (Kazakhstan); Chend Du, I Love You (China); Samson and Delilah (Australia); Hunger (UK); Tony Manero (Chile/Brazil); Pandora’s Box (Turkey/France/Germany/Belgium); Milk of Sorrows (Peru); and Machan (Italy/Sri Lanka).

Homegrown international festival

Since its inception before the turn of the new millennium, the Cinemanila International Film Festival has endeavored to revive the Philippines as the center of Southeast Asian cinema. It serves as a platform for young filmmakers to showcase their works.

“What makes us different compared to other local festivals is that we have an international component. We’ve been consistent in bringing the Philippine cinema to the world, and the world cinema to our country,” said Tikoy Aguiluz.

Aguiluz furthered that Cinemanila is a homegrown festival that focuses on young cinema and one of its main goals is to discover new talents.

“Despite the fact that we don’t offer grants, we still attract good filmmakers. When you have a good festival, you attract good filmmakers. The only offer that we can give them [filmmakers], however, is the exposures because our jurors are from Busan, Berlin, and Cannes,” Aguiluz concluded.

Derek Ramsay’s way to healthy living

By Nickie Wang

Health and weight-conscious men (and also women) who spend hours lifting weights and doing crunches in health clubs and fitness gyms should learn from celebrity hunk Derek Ramsay. He doesn’t go to the gym but exercises regularly at home. He does a hundred pushups every morning, engages in physical activities like sports, and eats the right food. Isn’t it the best way to get in shape?

“If time permits, I try to go to the gym but because of my busy schedule I make an effort to find other ways to keep myself mentally and physically healthy,” actor and commercial model Derek explained.

A proof of his hectic schedule, after his stint in the afternoon comedy drama series Ang Lalaking Nagmahal Sa Akin, he now focuses on filming I Love You Goodbye. The film is Star Cinema’s entry for this year’s Metro Manila Film Festival that stars Kim Chiu, Gabby Concepcion and Derek’s real-life girlfriend, Angelica Panganiban.

The actor is also aware that his profession is demanding. Just like appearing in a series or in a movie, he needs to be physically presentable. So amid hectic schedule, Derek still maintains a balanced lifestyle. He takes time to swim and play sport to keep himself in better shape. And of course he complements his active lifestyle by eating healthy and taking a rest whenever possible.

To further establish himself as a health-conscious personality, Derek officially joins the roster of top celebrity endorsers of famous brand Century Tuna via a new television commercial. In the commercial, the actor is paired with an equally sexy female Brazilian model and they both sizzle as they flaunt their enviable bodies.

“I am very active and I have this strange habit, I eat almost every two hours, I have this very fast metabolism and it all started when my parents introduced me to sports at a very young age. Canned tuna like the one I’m endorsing now is high in protein, which my body really needs. With all the physical activities that I do, I really need the protein in my body,” the 29-year-old actor shared.

Apart from the new commercial, Derek has others, and noting that they are trusted brands, they further the actor’s status as one of the most effective celebrity endorsers.

“I can say that I’m very lucky because it’s very rare that you get to endorse a product. I don’t know if you’re aware but I’ve been eating Century Tuna even before I was in the States or before settling here in the Philippines ,” Derek revealed.

The hunk actor even explained that he has several considerations in endorsing a product. He made clear that the product must complement his personality and lifestyle. In other words, he will not promote such product that he does not believe in.

Similarly, Century Tuna believes that Derek is the best person to endorse the new product, Century Corned Tuna, which comes in regular and chili variants. According Angela Gamboa, senior product manager of the brand, Derek has all the qualities that speak of the brand.

“He is very visible on television and we’ve noticed that most of his endorsements emphasize nutrition and healthy lifestyle,” the Century Tuna official affirmed.

Aside from getting credible celebrities like Derek, the official added that as the country’s top tuna brand, it has always been their commitment to bring delicious and healthy tuna experience to Filipino consumers.

“We would like to emphasize that we did a nutrition information comparison of our corned tuna versus other corned tunas available in the market. And we found out that they are almost the same, we have the same energy and fats contents, we both don’t have trans fat in our products, The only difference is our product doesn’t contain sodium, meaning it is not salty therefore it is much healthier,” the official ended.