Headlining the new GMA show titled Dangwa sans reel and real life partner Elmo Magalona, Janine Gutierrez sees this development as a challenge.
“Yes, this is really something new specially that I’m used to working with Elmo. My biggest primetime offerings were with him namely, Villa Quintana and More than Words. This time though, I’m paired with Mark Herras and Aljur Abrenica. I know that it’s experimental but certainly, it’s for my growth as an actress,” she says.
Photo credit: gmanetwork.com
At first, the pretty Kapuso actress reveals she also felt scared.
“That’s true…and a bit sad as well. I guess it’s just a normal reaction. But as I’ve mentioned earlier, this is an opportunity for me to widen my horizon, and Elmo’s as well. JanElmo fans for sure will not like this idea since they will see less of us together on screen but seeing the positive side, it’s good for our craft. At least, we get the chance to work with other stars. “
Despite their separate career path at present, Janine stresses that her relationship with Elmo remains intact.
“Of course,” she avers. “Even if we do separate stuff at present, we still support each other. We have different endeavors to attend to now but what’s important is that we boost each other’s confidence and morale. I’m happy that the support Elmo and I give each other doesn’t end in our being a love team.”
Apart from Aljur and Mark, the beauteous young actress gets to collaborate with other Kapuso stars in Dangwa.
“That’s why I consider this project a blessing. The storyline is interesting: it’s about some mystical flowers which change the lives of the people who buy them from the popular flower market, leading to a chance at love in the most unexpected place and time. It’s a fresh concept and I’m hats-off to our writing team for coming up with the story.
“Two of the stars who play important parts in the show include Barbie Forteza and Ruru Madrid. Others who will appear in the upcoming episodes are: Geoff Eigenmann, Rhian Ramos, Miguel Tanfelix, Bianca Umali, Pauleen Luna, Gerald Napoles, Rafael Rosell and Carla Abellana. I’m simply glad and proud because it’s not every day that you get to share the screen with these illustrious screen luminaries.”
It makes Janine real proud that for the lead role, she was handpicked by the GMA management.
“It’s just unbelievable…a real humbling experience. I’m touched of their faith in my capacity. They believe that I can deliver. That’s why I’m doubly inspired to give it my best shot so as not to disappoint them,” she ends.
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Aljur Abrenica points to lack of funding as the foremost reason why his supposedly entry to the 2015 Metro Manila Film Festival was recently pulled out.
“Yes! The title of the movie is Hermano Puli and is under the helm of Direk Gil Portes. It’s really sad that it won’t be exhibited during the annual film fest. Direk and I actually talked. Both of us did our best to look for a financier or a producer.
“I talked to some potential people myself. It’s just sad that nothing materialized out of said talks. We weren’t able to close any concrete deal. Yes, it’s kind of frustrating but definitely, it was a fun and enriching experience,” he avers.
What setback he has in the film department is compensated by his television career as he is part of the latest GMA offering titled Dangwa.
“This project is special because it signals my comeback in the boob tube scene. It’s been more than a year since I had a regular soap. I’m excited and thrilled because it’s my first collaboration with Janine Gutierrez. I really admire her when it comes to her dedication to her craft. She’s determined and focused. No wonder the management has strong faith in her.”
The handsome hunk is happy to be visible in the showbiz scene once again.
“I feel blessed and thankful to the journey I took. Finally, I’m here again. Actually, I was never really out. In spite of what happened, GMA remained supportive of me,” Aljur states.