Actor Enchong Dee relates how he landed the part of the groom named Junior in the movie Here Comes the Groom helm by Chris Martinez and produced by Quantum Films and Cineko Productions. The movie is an official entry to the first edition of Summer Metro Manila Film Festival.
“I received a call from Atty. Joji Alonso,” he says alluding to the Quantum Films producer. “When you talk to her, your answer will always be affirmative. That’s how convincing she is in presenting her projects.”
Enchong wants to extend his gratitude to Alonso for choosing him for the part.
“When she talked to me, she told me that I was their original and sole choice. So, I committed myself to do the project. The material is good, to begin with,” he adds.
The film is about soul-swapping. The soul of Enchong’s character swaps with that of a transgender woman played by Kaladkaren. How did he prepare for the role?
“One thing’s for sure: it’s hard to play a female on screen! It’s good that half of the job is done because of Direk Chris who gave us a full script. Half of it I would credit to Kaladkaren who was very generous in guiding me during the shoot. Even if he’s sleeping, production will wake him up just to ask how the scene will be done.”
What aspect did he find difficult?
“Perhaps, it was in the small details like how you will stare. Direk Chris wants a quick process. Like in five seconds, you need to exhibit all the nuances that he requires.”
Did he get confused along the way since Kaladkaren’s role as Wilhelmina is a transgender woman?
“Direk Chris made it clear from the start that my delineation of the character should be that of a transwoman and not a gay. So, it was clear to me since day one.”
Apart from the comedic element of the film, Enchong likes the lesson it imparts.
“After reading the script, I instantly liked it. It’s about seeing only the physical side of people, like there are religious ones who in reality are judgmental while there are those who only want to live and work decently who become victims of others’ unfair judgments.”
Lastly, will he be willing to accept a similar offer again in the future?
“Well, if the price is right,” Enchong ends in jest.
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Asked as to the present status of their relationship, Derrick Monasterio and Elle Villanueva say that they’re not yet an item.
“We have a relationship that is very special right now. But we’re not a couple yet. We’re still in the courtship stage,” Elle avers.
“We still don’t have a label. Currently, we’re enjoying each other’s company. Elle hasn’t answered me yet,” states Derrick.
Since they’re still in the courtship stage, what would it take to make Elle give her sweet “Yes!” to Derrick?
“He has a reputation for being a playboy. When we were doing the soap Return to Paradise, we became friends and he would narrate to me all his experiences. I’d tell myself this guy is so intense. So, during that time I didn’t see him as boyfriend material.”
But gradually, Derrick, according to the budding actress, has proven himself of being a good guy and surprisingly, his improvements are remarkable.
“I hope it’s not just a fluke or just in the beginning. For one, he doesn’t attend too much parties now. He also follows what I want,” reveals Elle.