Vhong Navarro is so elated to reprise a classic role of the late comedian Chiquito in Mang Kepweng Returns under Cineko Production.
“Well, who wouldn’t be, right?” he avers. “It’s an honor to breathe life to one of Papang’s most popular screen characters. For the record, Mang Kepweng had four screen installations: 1976, 1977, 1979 and 1981, as proof of its commercial viability. Now, after more than three decades, I’m headlining its grand reboot. Definitely, I feel proud with this development.”
The movie is actually intended for the forthcoming 2016 Metro Manila Film Festival.
“Yes! That’s why we are in the thick of shooting the entire movie. Our young producers are really keen on entering this to the MMFF come December. We have to submit the finished product by October for the evaluation of the committee. I’m keeping my fingers crossed that we will make the cut.”
Many say that he fits the role to a T.
“Oh, thank you! Actually, according to my producers, I have many movements which resemble the character, the reason why they unanimously picked me. I’ve seen some of Papang’s old Mang Kepweng movies before and tried to mimic his moves. I think that’s what they’ve seen in me and presto! I’m the modern-day Mang Kepweng,” reveals Vhong.
Written by Volta delos Santos and directed by GB Sampedro, this remake is already creating buzz at this point and has the makings of another landmark role for the talented comedian.
“I’m glad because it has instant recall among the viewing public. That can be considered a good head start in the race, so to speak. One more thing, the movie has an interesting plot that will glue the audience to their seats. It has the combined elements of comedy, horror, suspense and fantasy. The viewers will surely love Mang Kepweng’s adventures and misadventures including his entry into a magical world and his epic battle against an equally-powerful nemesis.”
Apart from the story line, the film boasts of a great cast.
“Oh, yes! Joining me here are acting stalwarts Jaclyn Jose, Pen Medina, Lotlot de Leon, Matet de Leon and Sunshine Cruz plus an array of the most popular young stars in contemporary times like Louise delos Reyes, Juancho Triviño, Jackie Rice, Valeen Montenegro, James Blanco, Ahron Villena and Jhong Hilario. Meanwhile, newcomer Kim Domingo is my leading lady.”
This early, many are positive that the project will become an instant hit.
“Well, hopefully. All of us are doing our best to make this highly-entertaining. I believe that it has a strong chance to make it to the official MMFF entries this year. I’m certain the public will support this at the tills,” ends Vhong.
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Derrick Monasterio is the latest Regal Baby.
The handsome Kapuso has recently inked a contract with Mother Lily Monteverde’s popular film outfit. In fact, the Regal matriarch tagged him as “The Millenial Regal Baby.”
“I’m really happy and proud to sign-up with them,” says Derrick. “I know they will help a lot to further my showbiz career. Everybody knows that Mother Lily is one of local showbiz’s strongest pillars. I’m grateful for this huge opportunity that she has given me!”
Many are already excited with his launching flick as a solo male star.
“Actually, I haven’t officially sat down with Regal yet to discuss it but Mother mentioned that it will be a bit sexy.”
Since Regal is a neutral ground, it’s possible that he’ll get to work with stars from rival home studios.
“That’s a welcome idea for me! Honestly, that’s what I want to experience. I also like to work with say, Kapamilya talents. There will be a different chemistry. For sure, I will learn from them,” Derrick states.