Rhian Ramos just can’t hide her elation over the fact that Saving Sally made it to the eight entries in this year’s Metro Manila Film Festival.
“I’m really happy and proud that our project was chosen as part of the Magic 8. It’s a big honor especially that we were given an A rating by the Cinema Evaluation Board,” she states.
Interestingly, Saving Sally is the product of the collaborative effort of a small team of young animators led by its director Avid Liongoren who has directed for television and TV commercials.
“That’s right! In fact, it took 10 years to finish the movie. Yes! Due to budget constraints, official photography got derailed. Imagine the time gap. So, all of us involved in the production are so glad that finally, the project was finished and more importantly, entered the MMFF this year. It’s really a blessing!”
Obviously, the lovely Kapuso star has invested a lot in the film.
“I’ve auditioned for the part when I was 19 years old, the time when I was doing Zorro opposite Richard Gutierrez. Now, I’m 26. So, I can say that I was really committed to the project. I was really overwhelmed when I got the title role considering that there were also other established actresses who vied for it.
“Apart from that, this movie contributed to my independence and maturity as an artist. For one, it’s the first role in which I underwent audition. During that time, roles were offered to me by my mother studio. But with Saving Sally, it’s my first experience to decide and go for a role that I really wanted to do. This project taught me to make decisions for myself!” reveals Rhian.
The film is in 2D animation.
“That I think what sets us apart from the other entries. Actually, it’s a typical youthful love story replete with child-like elements. A familiar coming-of-age vehicle told with stylized visuals. Here, Direk Avid blended 2D animation with live action and an abundance of warm, fuzzy feelings to create a totally unique and lovable little film. It’s catered to all types of viewers particularly children, the so-called Millennials and the young-at-heart.”
The lovely lass gets strong support from some of the industry’s reliable performers in this movie.
“Joining me here are TJ Trinidad, Sharmaine Centenera Buencamino, Archie Adamos, Carme Sanchez, Bodjie Pascua, and Enzo Marcos who acts as my love interest,” ends Rhian.
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Former matinee idol Biboy Ramirez has also an entry in the upcoming 2016 Metro Manila Film Festival.
“Yes! I’m part of the drama vehicle titled Oro under Feliz Film Productions of Mr. Shandii Bacolod. It’s directed by Mr. Alvin Yapan and stars Irma Adlawan, Joem Bascon and Mercedes Cabral. I’m very grateful to have worked with such brilliant actors,” he avers.
The movie, one of the two drama entries in this year’s MMFF, tackles a serious theme.
“Actually, it’s about a community of miners who will be infiltrated by an armed group masquerading as environmentalists. Their feisty lady barangay captain is forced to fight for their right to keep their livelihood. I think Ms. Irma did an excellent job in delineating the character.”
The plot is based on a similar situation in a province in the South.
“As part of our preparations, we had a one-day immersion activity with the locales. We were able to talk with the concerned lady barangay captain and learned about their plight. We hope that this film will help them regain justice as it stirs awareness and consciousness.”
Many say that Oro is a strong contender for awards.
“I hope so! I really want our offering to receive accolades since it is pioneering in style and presentation. It’s theme on power, greed and the importance of equity is simply moving,” says Biboy.