MALANG'S KOSME THE COP (RETIRED) WELCOMES THE NEW YEAR!

Kosme the cop (retired), a daily cartoon strip by Malang appeared regularly at the Manila Chronicle in the 1950s. Its about the henpecked husband who gets into all sorts of troubles, particularly from his nagging wife. It's Kosme celebrating the coming of the New Year. Enjoy the humor of the 1950s!!!
See Malang

NORA AUNOR Circa 1967

All Over the World - September 1967 - Nora's First Movie

This is an update on Nora's early years in showbiz

After her stints in TV (Channel 13’s Oras ng Ligaya) and radio (DZXL’s Operetang Putol-Putol and Fiesta Extravaganza), Nora Aunor was offered an eight-picture non-exclusive contract with Sampaguita Pictures, with the assurance that she would initially be given singing parts. She was previously been turned down by four other movie outfits. True enough, in All Over the World and Way Out in the Country, her first two movie appearances, she sang with her former Tawag ng Tanghalan opponent, Jose Yap.

In 1967, from September to December, Nora did six movies, all in supporting and minor roles. In one of her interviews, Nora cited the 1967 movie Ang Pangarap Ko’y Ikaw, a Susan Roces-Eddie Gutierrez starrer, as one of her favorites, along with Gerry De Leon’s Banaue (1975); Mario O’Hara’s Tatlong Taong Walang Diyos (1976); Eddie Garcia’s Atsay (1978); Lino Brocka’s Ina Ka ng Anak Mo (1979) and Bona (1980); and Ang Totoong Buhay ni Pacita M (1991).

See Nora Aunor's previous posts

Way Out in the Country- September 30, 1967

Cinderella A-Go-Go - November 11, 1967 / Stars Rosemarie and Ricky Belmonte

Pogi- November 25, 1967 / Stars Eddie Guitierrez and Vilma Valera

Sitting in the Park - December 8, 1967 / with Sampaguita-VP All-Star cast

Ang Pangarap Ko'y Ikaw - December 1967/ Stars Susan Roces and Eddie Gutierrez

HIMALA DVD NOW AVAILABLE

Hailed by fans and critics as Nora Aunor's finest movie and one of Direk Ishmael Bernal's best work. But for this film, Nora received only one Best Actress Award, from the MMFF (Metro Manila Film Festival), and one nomination from the FAP (Film Academy of the Philippines). A decade later, the Manunuri ng Pelikulang Pilipino included Himala in its list of the 10 Best films of the decade (1980-89). After twenty five years, the wait is over. It's finally released on DVD. Buy your original copy now!

Himala (1982)

Himala Revisited
by Arnel Resma Ramos

Watching Ishmael Bernal's landmark film Himala on a lethargic afternoon is like revisiting an old familiar haunt. It brings back memories of a cherished time when locally manufactured movies made one ponder and contemplate, think and analyze.

We were but a boy in knee pants, starry-eyed and unsophisticated, when we first saw this meditative piece on faith and the evils that it brings forth when used for the wrong reasons. The year was 1982, exactly two decades ago, and we well remember being enthralled by the sheer force of its powerful images and quietly devastating performances. We are one of the blessed few who own a video tape copy of the film that has remained, through the years, Nora Aunor's signature film. The pint-sized superstar delivered a miracle of a performance as Elsa, the false visionary. Perhaps, the finest performance by a Filipino actor ever recorded on celluloid. If the diminutive multimedia luminary ever decides to leave the movies for good, Himala is enough reason to guarantee her of immortality.

Set in a far-flung barrio, a lowly, plain looking lass claims that the Virgin Mary appeared before her during an eclipse. She becomes a faith healer and almost overnight the sleepy town transforms into a bustling community. Pilgrims and tourists troop to Barrio Cupang out of curiosity while the sick flock to the once-cursed place with the hope that the miracle will heal them. Among the people who gravitate around Elsa are her two fanatic followers: a childhood friend named Chayong, almost saintly in countenance, and a poor woman (played with serene intensity by theater stalwart Amable Quiambao) who places her devotion to Elsa on top of her priority list. Two other important characters come within Elsa's orbit: a struggling documentary film director who treats his camera as his God and a downtrodden prostitute (performed to perfection by Gigi Duenas).

Eventually, the miracle brings out the worst in the townsfolk. The greedy use it for their selfish motives. They peddle Elsa's miracle like a commodity, to the extent of selling bottles of supposedly miraculous water. The politicians take advantage of the media mileage to further their hidden agenda. The dire poverty drives the women to prostitution and the men to committing crime to escape their miserable plight.

Then one day, Elsa loses her power to cure. The faithful Chayong takes her own life and once more Barrio Cupang goes back to being barren and seemingly God-forsaken. There is an interesting twist as to why this happens. I choose not to reveal it so as not to spoil your viewing pleasure, if and when you come across a copy of this film and like me, be held captive by its hypnotic quality. I dare say that Himala is far more spiritual than the countless movies inspired by the lives of saints.

The film concludes in a scene where Elsa, following the rain that has come to Barrio Cupang after a long drought, gathers her believers in the sand dunes and announces, to everyone's shock, that indeed the miracle is nothing but a hoax. It is in this scene where Nora delivers the iconic lines "Walang himala, ang himala ay nasa ating puso (There is no miracle, the miracle is in our hearts)." Right after the startling revelation, Elsa is gunned down and pandemonium breaks out.

The film is not the typical fare that the average Filipino moviegoer laps up with glee. There are no violent confrontation scenes. Missing too is the element of sex. But the film is unerring in its depiction of the grim consequences when people use faith to advance themselves. From the first scene to the last, Bernal never loses grip on his material, imbuing it with directorial touches that may go unnoticed by undiscerning viewers. They may find the film too passive and gloomy. Bernal executes the film according to his grand design. The cinematography and the editing are laudable.

Ricky Lee's script is deft and soulful. Some quarters complain that the main problem with the script is the underwritten part of the central character Elsa. We feel that the role was decidedly underwritten to make the part properly enigmatic and mystical, in keeping with the elusive quality of the film. After all, faith is a very personal matter. It is not something that one slaps right in the face of others.

Then until now, we believe that Nora Aunor should have swept all the best actress awards for that particular year. She was pitted against Vilma Santos' heartfelt portrayal of the mistress in Relasyon and the latter scored a grandslam. This is not to belittle Santos' portrayal but if one were to be objective, it would be easy to see that Aunor had the more complex role and only an actress of her caliber can pull off the part with much persuasion. It calls for a restrained, self-effacing acting style. And Aunor, the consummate actress that she was (take note that we used the past tense because the more recent film outings of the actress are far from her best. She has become very florid, like a bad version of a hysterical Charito Solis), strikes not a false note in her performance. It is, in one word, mesmerizing. And Himala is without a scintilla of a doubt the pinnacle of her cinematic achievements.

Films like Himala reaffirm our faith in Philippine movies. We hope that despite the fact that two of our most revered directors, Bernal and Lino Brocka, have long since gone to the great beyond, people in this well-loved industry will join hands and strive to come up with films that will herald a renaissance in Philippine cinema. We hope to see the day when the Philippines will finally be able to make it as a nominee in the Oscar Best Foreign Language Film category. Some cynics may say that it is wishful thinking but call us what you wish, we remain undaunted in our belief that Philippine Cinema is at par with the best of the world. see link

ISANG BALA KA LANG! AT CINEMA FPJ

To all FPJ fans, Isang Bala Ka Lang will finally be seen today at ABS-CBN Channel 2, 4:00 pm at Cinema FPJ. The movie, rarely seen, was released theatrically in 1983. It also starred Marianne de la Riva, Paquito Diaz, Johnny Wilson and Julie Vega. It's one movie you can't afford to miss. Watch it!!!

THEY STARTED YOUNG #3: NIÑO MUHLACH: THE CHILD WONDER

Ang Leon at ang Daga (1975)- Nino Muhlach's first movie with The King, FPJ

I recalled watching a very young Niño Muhlach in Ariel Ureta’s show (Is it Ariel and Company after Six?). The kid, just barely three or four years old was full of energy, very talented and that time, many had predicted that he will go places. True enough, he was introduced in his very first movie, Ang Leon at ang Daga in 1975 with the King of Philippine Movies himself, Fernando Poe, Jr. The movie broke existing box-office records that time and was dubbed the Child Wonder of Philippine cinema.The Muhlach family, headed by his dad, Alex, the brother of actress Amalia Fuentes, formed D’Wonder Films. Niño did numerous films under his production pairing him with top movie stars, among them, FPJ, Joseph Estrada Dolphy, Vilma Santos, Nida Blanca, Jun Aristorenas, Chiquito and Ariel Ureta. He was handled too by Director Lino Brocka in two of his films, Tahan na Empoy Tahan (1977) and Ang Tatay Kong Nanay (1978). He was FAMAS Best Child Actor and Performer for three consecutive years (1976, 1977 and 1978). He still holds the title of being the highest paid child actor in the history of Philippine Cinema.
See They Started Young Series


Jack and Poy (1977)- Stars Nino Muhlach with his discoverer, Ariel Ureta

Ang Pagbabalik ni Harabas at Bulilit (1977)- Stars Nino Muhlach and Jun Aristorenas

Tahan Na Empoy, Tahan (1977)- Stars Nino Muhlach, Snooky, Alicia Alonzo and Armida Siguon-Reyna / Directed by Lino Brocka


Tutubing Kalabaw Tutubing Karayom (1977) - Stars Fernando Poe, Jr., Marianne De La Riva and Nino Muhlach / FPJ-Nino second team-up
Ang Tatay Kong Nanay (1978)- Stars Dolphy, Nino Muhlach, Marissa Delgado and Phillip Salvador / Directed by Lino Brocka


Bruce Liit (1978)- Stars Nino Muhlach, Ramon Zamora and Rey Malonzo


Butsoy (1978) - Stars Nino Muhlach, Dante Rivero, Marianne De La Riva, Marissa Delgado and Dindo Fernando


Kaming Patok na Patok (1978)- Stars Chiquito and Nino Muhlach


Magkaaway (1978) - Stars Joseph Estrada and Nino Muhlach



Kuwatog (1979) - Stars Nino Muhlach, Ricky Belmonte, Rez Cortez, Anna Marin and Donna Villa


Ang Tatay Kong Kalbo (1979) - Stars Bembol Roco, Beth Bautista and Nino Muhlach


Pepeng Kulisap (1979) - Stars Nino Muhlach, Beth Bautista, George Estregan, Dindo Fernando and Andy Poe


Darna at Ding (1980) - Stars Vilma Santos and Nino Muhlach


Enteng- Anting (1980) - Stars Nino Muhlach and Nida Blanca


Hepe (1980) - Stars Nino Muhlach, Rey Malonzo, Eddie Garcia, Paquito Diaz and Max Alvarado


Juan Tamad Junior (1980) - Stars Nino Muhlach and with the special participation of Manuel Conde


Nognog (1980) - Stars Nino Muhlach and Bonnie 'Mong' De Jesus

Tembong (1980) - Stars Nino Muhlach, Boots Anson-Roa, Ricky Belmonte and Eddie Garcia

BERNARD BONNIN: THE ORIGINAL 'PALOS'

Alyas Palos was a comic serial novel by Virgilio and Nestor Redondo, which was first serialized in Tagalog Klasiks in 1961. Palos was a thief in the night, a kind-hearted felon with an excellent and masterful skill in opening state-of-the art vaults. The novel was later adapted into the silver screen with an upcoming star, Bernard Bonnin as its lead star. Alyas Palos made Bernard Bonnin a household name and it defined Bonnin’s showbiz career.

More on Bernard Bonnin

Alyas Palos (1961)- Stars Bernard Bonnin, Willie Sotelo, Mila Ocampo and Lourdes Medel

Palos Kontra Gagamba (1963)- Stars Bernard Bonnin in a dual role, Luz Valdez and Lourdes Medel

Palos: Counterspy (1966) - Stars Bernard Bonnin, Helen Gamboa, Eddie Arenas and Val Castelo with Von Serna in a special role

Palos Strikes Again (1968) - Stars Bernard Bonnin and Sofia Moran
Palos Fights Back (1969)- Stars Bernard Bonnin,
Sofia Moran and Marion Douglas

Alyas Palos II (1982) - Bernard Bonnin in a comeback movie

komik sequel to the highly successful Palos series --- Ang Maskara ni Palos serialized in Redondo Komix, May 1963. Below is the first issue:

click image to enlarge

Palos Komiks Issue#1 / January 27, 1969

THE TWIST: THE DANCE CRAZE OF THE 60s

"COME ON, BABY,

LET'S DO THE TWIST"

Jam Session (1962)- Stars Nida Blanca, Nestor De Villa, Bernard Bonnin and Lourdes Medel

The Twist is a twelve bar blues song that gave birth to the Twist Dance craze. The song was written and originally released in 1959 by Hank Ballard and the Midnighters as a B-side but was a minor hit. The song and the dance the Twist, were popularized in 1960 when the song was covered by Chubby Checker. His single became a smash hit, reaching number one on the Billboard Hot 100 on September 19 in 1960 (one week), and then setting a record by being the only single to reach number one in two different chart runs when it resurfaced and topped the chart again on January 13, 1962 (two weeks).

see Pinoy classic rock 1960s
see Dance Crazes of the Sixties

THE TWIST
by Chubby Checker

Come on baby let's do the twist
Come on baby let's do the twist
Take me by my little hand and go like this
Ee-oh twist baby baby twist
Oooh-yeah just like this
Come on little miss and do the twist

My daddy is sleepin' and mama ain't around
Yeah daddy is sleepin' and mama ain't around
We're gonna twisty twisty twisty
'Til we turn the house down
Come on and twist yeah baby twist
Oooh-yeah just like this
Come on little miss and do the twist

Yeah you should see my little Sis
You should see my my little Sis
She really knows how to rock
She knows how to twist
Come on and twist yeah baby twist
Oooh-yeah just like this
Come on little miss and do the twist
Yeah rock on now
Yeah twist on now
Twist.

It's 1960 and the new dance craze is The Twist...

Remember the popular live show Dance-O-Rama televised Monday to Friday, 6 to 7pm at DZTM-TV-Channel 5 and hosted by Pete Roa and Baby O’Brien.

How about DJ Dance Time aired at DZRH-TV-Channel 11 and The Nite Owl Dance Party also aired over Channel 11 and hosted by Lito Gorospe.

I used to watch these TV shows with my parents, titos and titas. Those were the good old days!

Dance-O-Rama (1963) - Stars Susan Roces, Jose Mari, Rosemarie,
Juvy Cachola, Dindo Fernando and Bert Leroy, Jr.


Yeba (1963) - Stars Nida Blanca, Nestor De Villa,
Lita Guitierrez and Diomedes Maturan

DJ Dance Time (1964) - Stars Daisy Romualdez, Cynthia Ugalde,
Alona Alegre and Helen Gamboa


The Nite Owl Dance Party (1964) - Stars Eddie Mesa, Jose Mari,
Helen Gamboa and Maggie De La Riva



Everybody Dance (1964) - Stars Nida Blanca, Nestor De Villa
and The Reycards Duet

MOVIE TRIVIA #2: TO BE A MAN (1963)

I always admired actor Van Heflin. Though not as handsome as Gregory Peck, Cary Grant, Clark Gable, or Rock Hudson, Heflin nevertheless played intelligent, determined, often complex heroes and turned in many fine performances as the star of both dramas and action films. In Shane (1953), Heflin played a homesteader being intimidated by a mob of cattlemen. A mysterious stranger and gunslinger (Alan Ladd) came to his aid; 3:10 to Yuma (1957) was one of the best gripping and suspenseful 1950s western, where farmer (Heflin) needing the money agreed to hold captured outlaw (Glenn Ford) until the train arrives, but Ford started to psych him out: In Act of Violence (1949), a film noir, Heflin was pitted against equally talented actor Robert Ryan. A young soldier (Ryan) tried to track down an informer (Heflin) who wronged them during their capivity in a Nazi prison camp.

Did you know that...
Van Heflin starred in a 1963 film, To Be a Man, which he co-starred with Filipino stars Leopoldo Salcedo, Liza Moreno, Oscar Roncal, Oscar Keesee, Ruben Rustia and Vic Silayan. The movie, which was co-produced by Eddie Romero, was released in the United States as Cry of Battle.

For details of the movie, see Andrew Leavold blog:
Eddie Romero Filmography

More on Movie Trivia

To Be a Man (1963)- Stars Van Heflin, Leopoldo Salcedo, James MacArthur, Liza Moreno, Vic Silayan, Mike Parsons and Rita Moreno/ Directed by Irving Lerner

MERRY CHRISTMAS!!!

WISHING YOU ALL
A MERRY CHRISTMAS
AND A HAPPY NEW YEAR !!!

Little Christmas Tree - FPJ's Christmas gift to his fans in 1977 with superstar Nora Aunor

"TANG-TARANG-TANG"

Do you still remember the top-rating weekly TV show in the mid-60s, Tang-Tarang-Tang? This was one of my favorite show during my childhood days and I still recalled somewhat vaguely the opening song which run something like this ... Ako si Don Mariano, Ibyang po naman ako, Bitoy ang pangalan ko, Badong naman ako... In the cast were big names in movies, TV and radio --- Pugo as Don Mariano, Bentot as the overgrown child Bitoy, Leroy Salvador as Badong and Sylvia La Torre as Ibyang and Rosa Aguirre as Aling Rosa. Sylvia was later replaced by Marita Zobel, and in the 70s by Jean Saburit. The show, created and conceptualized by Virgilio 'Beer' Flores, was being handled and directed by talented director Ading Fernando.

The show started as a radio program in DZRH in 1961. It featured the voices of Pugo, Bentot, Sylvia La Torre and Rosa Aguirre. It was later adapted into the silver screen in 1962.

Tang-Tarang-Tang- Radio serial/ 1961

Movie Adaptation- Tang-Tarang-Tang (1962)- Stars Pugo, Bentot, Sylvia La Torre, Rosa Aguirre, Dely Magpayo, Cris de Vera and Leroy Salvador/ Directed by Fred Daluz

KOREA (1952)

Did you know that…
Benigno ‘Ninoy’ Aquino [ Philippine opposition leader during the Marcos era, senator and national hero] was only 17 when he joined the country’s biggest newspaper, The Manila Times. When The Times was casting about for someone to cover what was happening to the Philippine contingent in the Korean War, Ninoy jumped at the chance. He cajoled the newspaper’s Brooklyn-born editor, Dave Boguslav, and its publisher, Joaquin ‘Chino’ Roces to send him to Korea. But he was only 17! What could a ‘boy correspondent’ do? “What will your mother say?”, Chino exclaimed. When the two hesitated, Ninoy simply hitched a ride on a military plane and was in Korea sending dispatches before his two bosses realized that he had jumped the gun on them. The Times’ editors, Boguslav and Joe Bautista, soon came to appreciate that gung ho quality which was to rocket Aquino to fame.

Excerpt from: Ninoy: In the Eye of Memory
By Maximo V. Soliven
People Magazine/ August 2003

Did you also know that…
Ninoy Aquino wrote the story and screenplay of the movie, Korea (1952), which starred Jaime de la Rosa and directed by Lamberto V. Avellana. It was nominated for that year’s FAMAS Best Picture and Best Screenplay (for Ninoy). It won two FAMAS major awards: Best supporting actor for Gil de Leon and Best supporting actress for Nida Blanca who was only 16 years old then and just barely one year in LVN. She portrayed the role of a young Korean war waif.

A scene from the movie Korea with lead star Jaime De la Rosa and young Nida Blanca.

THE MAVERICK DIRECTOR CELSO AD CASTILLO

HIGHLIGHTS IN CELSO AD CASTILLO'S CAREER:

• Celso Ad Castillo is ranked along with Directors Lino Brocka, Ishmael Bernal, Marilou Diaz-Abaya and Mike de Leon for bringing about the Philippine cinema’s so-called Second Golden Age in the 70s.

• Celso was only 21 when he did his first film, Misyong Mapanganib (1965), which signaled his independent filmmaking years. The movie gave Tito Galla, brother of Gloria Romero, his first starring role opposite Helen Gamboa.

• At 27, he directed Fernando Poe Jr. in Asedillo (1971), a biographical sketch of one of the more charismatic local dissident leaders in Southern Tagalog which gave the action star a Famas best actor award. Celso went on to direct FPJ in other films: Ang Alamat (1971), Sto. Domingo (1972) and Esteban (1973).

• Castillo was also known for such classic as Nympha, an erotic film ahead of its time; Celso Ad Castillo made his mark in local movies by creating a stir in the early '70s, with his sex flicks which were once even condemned as "pornography." His original Nympha was hailed as one of the best movies of the decade, along with his Asedillo. Nympha became the second Filipino movie that qualified for competition category in the 1971 Venice Film Festival, after Manuel Conde's Genghis Khan. Nympha was shot in black and white and starred a relative newcomer whom Celso simply christened as Rizza (Estrella Fabian in real life). The film earned for Celso his first Famas nomination as best director, up against Gerry de Leon's "Lilet," which starred Celia Rodriguez.

• Celso further reinforced his reputation as director of sex flicks with "The Virgin" which again starred Rizza, "Ang Pinakamagandang Hayop sa Balat ng Lupa" with Gloria Diaz in the original version and Ruffa Gutierrez in the remake, "Ang Madugong Daigdig ni Salvacion with Pilar Pilapil, "Virgin People" with Pepsi Paloma, Janet Bordon and Myrna Castillo, "Isla" with Maria Isabel Lopez, "Brown Emmanuelle" with Myrna Castillo and "Paradise Inn" with Lolita Rodriguez and Vivian Velez.

• Celso, however, tried in hand in other film genres. He wrote and directed even horror flicks like the Susan Roces-Rosanna Ortiz classic, Patayin Mo sa Sindak si Barbara in 1974 and Susan Roces award-winning movie, Maligno in 1977.

• Pagputi ng Uwak Pagitim ng Tagak (1976), a love story interwoven with the Hukbalahap Movement in the country, established Celso's identity as a filmmaker.

• Burlesk Queen (1997), which starred Vilma Santos, gave Celso his first best director award, besting other film greats such as Lino Brocka, Ishmael Bernal, Mike de Leon, Eddie Romero and Augusto Buenaventura

• Celso also directed Christopher de Leon in Ang Alamat ni Julian Makabayan, Dante Rivero and Hilda Koronel in Ang Gangster at ang Birhen, Jay Ilagan in Ato Ti Bondying, Elizabeth Oropesa in Uhaw na Dagat, Lito Lapid in Pedro Tunasan (1983), Dina Bonnevie and Gary Estrada in Tag-araw, Tag-ulan, German Moreno in Payaso, Gloria Diaz in Ang Daigdig ay Isang Butil na Luha, Sunshine Cruz in Lihim ni Madonna and Ramon Zamora in Ang Mahiwagang Daigdig ni Pedro Penduko (1973) and Return of the Dragon (1974).

Excerpts from the article, "Celso Remains a 'Kid' at Heart"
by Leah Salterio /Philippine Daily Inquirer

Misyong Mapanganib (1965) - Celso's first film / Stars Tito Galla and Helen Gamboa

Zebra (1965) - Stars Tito Galla, Stella Suarez and Ruby Regala in the title role

Mansanas sa Paraiso (1965)- Stars Stella Suarez in her first starring role

Nympha (1971) - released during the 'Bomba" era/ Stars Rizza

Asedillo (1971)- Stars Fernando Poe, Jr. and Barbara Perez

Ang Alamat (1971) - Stars Fernando Poe, Jr. and Pilar Pilapil

Sto. Domingo (1972) - Stars Fernando Poe, Jr. and Boots Anson-Roa

Esteban (1973) - Stars Fernando Poe, Jr., Alona Alegre and Boots Anson-Roa

Return of the Dragon (1974)- Stars Ramon Zamora and Lotis Key

Ang Pinakamagandang Hayop sa Balat ng Lupa (1974)- stars Gloria Diaz, Elizabeth Oropesa and Vic Vargas in a very special role. It started the so-called 'wet look' in local cinema.

Patayin Mo sa Sindak si Barbara (1974) - Stars Susan Roces, Dante Rivero and Rosanna Ortiz

Ang Madugong Daigdig ni Salvacion (1975)- Stars Ricky Belmonte, Pilar Pilapil and Leila Hermosa

Daluyong at Habagat (1976) - Stars Vic Vargas, Ricky Belmonte, Alma Moreno and Pinky de Leon

Burlesk Queen (1977) - Stars Vilma Santos

Maligno (1977) - Stars Susan Roces, Dante Rivero, Celia Rodriguez and Eddie Garcia

Pagputi ng Uwak, Pag-itim ng Tagak (1978) - Stars Vilma Santos and Bembol Roco


Aliw-iw (1979)- Stars Rio Locsin

Totoy Boogie (1980) - Stars Lloyd Samartino

Pedro Tunasan (1983_ - Stars Lito Lapid and Tina Revilla

Paradise Inn (1984) - Stars Lolita Rodriguez and Vivian Velez

DIVINA VALENCIA AND STELLA SUAREZ: THE SEX SIRENS OF THE 60s

Labanang Babae! (1965)- Stars Divina Valencia and Stella Suarez

Naalaala ko pa ang isang kanta na sumikat noong dekada 60 na “Divina Valencia, Stella Suarez nagbuburles,” sung to the tune of A Hard Day’s Night ng The Beatles.

Divina and Stella were the moviedom’s sex sirens of the 60s. Divina was introduced in 1964 in the Jess Lapid launching movie “Kardong Kidlat,” while Stella was already acting in movies a year earlier but was doing contravida and supporting roles, before she was given a big break in 1965 in the movie, Mansanas sa Paraiso, directed by newcomer Celso Ad Castillo. Considered as sex sirens, Divina and Stella sexy roles were rather tamed extending only to exposing their backs, wearing skimpy clothes, nighties or bikinis and doing some light kissing scenes. Divina in particular became the favorite screen partner of most leading actors that time in the likes of FPJ, Joseph Estrada, Romeo Vasquez, Zaldy Zshornack, Dolphy, Chiquito, among others. She temporarily gave up her acting when she got married to action star Bernard Belleza. They had a son (Dranreb). Stella, on the other hand, went on her showbiz career doing some films during the Bomba era in the early 70s. Stella is mom to 80-90s movie idol Richard Gomez.

Kung Gabi sa Maynila (1964) - Stars Miriam Jurado, Pilita Corrales, Stella Suarez and Perla Bautista with Tony Ferrer in a supporting role

Kardong Kidlat (1964) - Stars Jess Lapid in his first starring role and introducing Divina Valencia

Labanang Lalake! (1965) - Stars Joseph Estrada, Jess Lapid, Perla Bautista and Divina Valencia

Mansanas sa Paraiso (1965)- Stars Stella Suarez in her first starring role/ Story and direction by Celso Ad Castillo

Pasko ng Limang Magdalena (1965)- Stars Divina Valencia, Daisy Romualdez, Ruby Regala, Lucita Soriano and Miriam Jurado

Ang Babaing Ito ay Akin (1966)- Stars Jun Aristorenas and Divina Valencia

Not For Hire (1966) - Stars Jun Aristorenas and Divina Valencia

Ang Nasasakdal (1966)- Stars Romeo Vasquez and Divina Valencia


Target: Sexy Rose (1966)- Stars Chiquito and Divina Valencia

Espiya Kontra Espiya (1966) - Stars Nestor de Villa and Divina Valencia

Jala Jala Jerk (1966)- Stars Eddie Mesa and Divina Valencia

Mga Alabok sa Lupa (1967)- Fernando Poe, Jr. and Divina Valencia

Psycho Maniac (1968)- Stars Divina Valencia, Ray Marcos, Stella Suarez and Dindo Fernando

Apoy ng Kaligayahan (1971)- Stars Stella Suarez, Rosanna Ortiz, Eva Marie, Gina Stuart and Vic Vargas

GLORIA AND ERAP TOYS

I bought these two cute Gloria and Erap toy figures during the Christmas midnight sale at Greenhills shopping center last year. The figures, in their funny and amusing poses, measuring between 2 1/2" to 2 3/4" in sizes, in resin, are perfect gifts for Gloria and Erap supporters.

SAMPAGUITA-VP ALL-STARS: THE BARKADA YOUTH OF THE 60s

Mga Batang Bakasyonista (1964) - with the Sampaguita-VP All-Stars

Mga Batang Turista (1965)- with the Sampaguita-VP All Stars

In 1963, Sampaguita Pictures introduced a bunch of young teenage stars which they called the Sampaguita-VP (Vera-Perez) All-Stars:

The Girls: Rosemarie (sister of Susan Roces and mother of Sheryl Cruz), Blanca Gomez (sister of Daisy Romualdez), Gina Pareno, Shirley Moreno, Loretta Marquez, Sarah Calvin, Nori Dalisay

The Boys: Lito Legaspi, Dindo Fernando, Bert Leroy, Jr., Pepito Rodriguez, Edgar Salcedo (son of the great Leopoldo Salcedo), Romeo Rivera, Jose Morelos, the comic duo of German Moreno and Boy Alano.

Together, these young stars made a series of successful “Mga Batang” movies, similar to the Lo’Waist Gang movies of the 50s. The movies they made were, among others, Mga Batang Artista, Mga Batang Turista, Mga Bata ng Lagim, Mga Batang Iskwater. They were reintroduced in 1966 as the Stars of 66. Most of the career of these stars were short-lived as soon as they turned freelance. Rosemarie (after a failed marriage with actor Ricky Belmonte) and Bert Leroy, Jr. migrated to the United States; Dindo Fernando died early while in the peak of his career; Lito Legaspi and Romeo Rivera still doing movies in supporting roles; Only Gina Pareno, though she had a tumultuous personal life in her midlife, confidently regained her bearings and became a prized and award-winning actress and comedian German Moreno as a TV host and a star builder, made a go of their respective showbiz career.

Ang Class Reunion (1963) - with the Sampaguita-VP All-Stars

Mga Kwela sa Eskwela (1963)- with the Sampaguita-VP All-Stars

Magkakapatid na Waray (1964) - with the Sampaguita-VP All- Stars

Umibig ay Di Biro (1964) - with the Sampaguita-VP All-Stars

Mga Bata ng Lagim (1964) - withe the Sampaguita-VP All-Stars

Mga Batang Artista (1964)- with the Sampaguita-VP All-Stars

Mga Batang Milyonaryo (1964) - with the Sampaguita-VP All-Stars

Jamboree '66 (1966) - with Sampaguita-VP All-Stars

THEY STARTED YOUNG #2: ACE VERGEL

Ace Vergel, dubbed as the "The Original Bad Boy of Philippine Movies," was the son of Alicia Vergel and Cesar Ramirez, and the brother of Beverly Vergel. At age 4, Ace Vergel, known as Ace York then, made his film debut in 1956's "Taong Putik" from Everlasting Pictures. Three years later, at age 7, he did Anak ng Bulkan (1959) where he portrayed the role of Pedring, a boy who befriended a giant prehistoric bird named Goliat. The movie starred Edna Luna and Fernando Poe, Jr. Veteran character actor and villain Bruno Punzalan was unforgettable as the stepfather of Pedring who made life miserable for the boy.

See They Started Young series

In 1977, Ace, at age 25, was reintroduced as Ace Vergel in the movie, Inay, a Lino Brocka film starring his mother Alicia Vergel. It was entry to that year's Metro Manila Film Festival.

Inay (1977) - Stars Alicia Vergel, Dindo Fernando, Chanda Romero, Orestes Ojeda, Laurice Guillen and Ace Vergel / Directed by Lino Brocka

Tatak Angustia (1980) - Stars Rudy Fernandez and Ace Vergel

Annie Sabungera (1982) - Stars Nora Aunor, Ace Vergel And ReyValera

Mga Pambato (1982) - Stars Rudy Fernandez, Ace Vergel, Jess Lapid,Jr. and Phillip Salvador

In 1989, Vergel won the Best Actor award at GAWAD URIAN for his role in the film Anak ni Cabron.

The actor had several brushes with the law linking him to illegal drugs; rape charges also lodged against him. His personal life had always been a mess which somehow stalled and hindered his progress as a fulfilled actor.

Vergel died before dawn Saturday, December 15, 2007 after suffering from a heart attack. He was 55. Another movie icon lost.

THEY STARTED YOUNG #1: GINA ALAJAR AND RODERICK PAULATE

Roderick Paulate was only 5 or 6 years old and Gina Alajar (Regina Alatiit in real life) only eight years old, when they auditioned for Lea Productions' Kaibigan Ko’ng So.Nino (1967), The two bested some 300 aspirants getting the two of the four important roles at stake (Gina won the role of Oreng, while Roderick got the role of Bong.

This simple newspaper ad announcing the search for four juvenile talents completely changed the life of these two young hopefuls.

As a child performer, Gina won the Best Child Actress at the Film Academy of the Movie Arts and Sciences (FAMAS) for Kaibigan Ko'ng Sto. Nino (1967) and later received a similar trophy from the Citizens' Council for Mass Media (CCMM) for Wanted:Perfect Mother (1970); Roderick Paulate, on the other hand received the 1970 FAMAS Best Child Performer in FPJ's Mga Anghel na Walang Langit (1970).

See Link on They Started Young series

Young Lorna Tolentino and Zernan Manahan were also included in the movie.

ROBERTO GONZALEZ AND BERNARD BELLEZA: MGA PINOY KARATISTA

The decade of the 60s saw the emergence of two underrated action stars--- Roberto Gonzalez, dubbed hari ng karate (or karate king) and Bernard Belleza, another Pinoy James Bond. Gonzales was launched in 1967 via Hari ng Karate, where he popularized karate, a form of Japanese martial arts. A reel and real-life karateka (karate practitioner) expert, Gonzalez soon doing movies where he indulged mostly in karate scenes in such movies as Digmaan sa Karate (1967) and Bertong Karate (1967). Belleza, on the other hand, was another martial arts expert who was introduced into the movie world in the mold of James Bond (Belleza married then sex siren Divina Valencia and had a son named Dranreb). Considered as B-movie actors (not in the category of then established action greats as FPJ, Joseph Estrada, Zaldy Zshornack, Jess Lapid and Romeo Vasquez), Gonzales and Belleza however, managed to curve a name for themselves in the local movie scene. Both actors appeared in various action movies showing their skills and expertise in self-defense and martial arts.

Bertong Karate (1967)-Stars Roberto Gonzalez, Liberty Ilagan and Rolando Gonzalez

Pambihirang Pito (1967) - Stars Roberto Gonzalez, Sofia Moran, Marissa Delgado and Rolando Gonzalez

Master Fighter (1967) - with Roberto Gonzalez and Liberty Ilagan

Chaku Judo Aikido O Karate (1968) - Stars Roberto Gonzalez, Josephine Garcia and Rolando Gonzales

Hari ng Slums (1968)- Stars Roberto Gonzalez, Elvie Gonzales, Stella Suarez and Rolando Gonzalez

Habang Ako'ng Batas (1971) - Stars Roberto Gonzalez, Jules King and Rolando Gonzalez

Kontra Hari (1971) - Stars Roberto Gonzalez, Pilar Pilapil, Romy Diaz and Rosanna Ortiz

Sa Kamay ng Tatlong Takas (1971)- Stars Roberto Gonzalez, Dante Varona, Romy Diaz and Yvonne

ALexander Bilis (1967) - Stars Bernard Belleza

Daredevil (1968)- Stars Bernard Belleza

We Only Live Wais (1968) - Stars Bernard Belleza/ Story and screenplay by Celso Ad Castillo

Honey and West (1968) - Stars Bernard Belleza and Shirley Gorospe

MALANG'S KOSME THE COP (RETIRED) GOES TO THE MOVIES

Kosme the cop (retired), a daily cartoon strip by Malang appeared regularly at the Manila Chronicle in the 1950s. Its about the henpecked husband who gets into all sorts of troubles, particularly from his nagging wife. Here, it's movie time for Kosme... Enjoy the humor of the 1950s!!!
See Kosme the cop(retired)--- All Saint's Day

click image to enlarge

THE YOUNG NORA AUNOR

with Vilma Santos

with Esperanza Fabon, now Judge Esperanza Fabon-Victorino, Presiding Judge of Branch 167, Regional Trial Court (RTC)- Pasig City (see link)

I recently acquired nineteen (19) pcs. of about 3 x 4 wallet size vintage Nora Aunor photographs at php30 each. A little bit pricey, but not bad if you are a die-hard Noranian, a movie enthusiast or just a plain collector like me. This set of photos probably taken in the late 60s to early 70s, when Nora was just starting out as a young teenage star. The photos, mostly in sepia, were considered collector’s items. I want to share them and hope all Noranians or even us who grew during that era would appreciate and enjoy them or even reminisce and feel the good old days.

See Nora Aunor: The Seven Golden Years (1976-82)
See Nora Aunor's Early Years in Showbiz

click image to enlarge

THE HEADLINES 3 YEARS AGO: FPJ IS DEAD

The Death of the King, FPJ, is a shock and a terrible nightmare for most Filipinos who idolizes and loves him. His sudden demise is such a very hot item among our major newspaper dailies and tabloids and for 12 days, from December 12, 2004, when he was rushed to St. Luke’s Hospital and declared comatose, December 14, when he was declared dead and on December 23, when he was buried, FPJ was a headline item. One news article puts it “The Biggest FPJ Blockbuster.” Let’s recall the events thru this series of headline news direct from the front pages of major newspaper dailies and tabloids.

He was the best President we would have had. He was The Man with a Golden Heart who truly and sincerely felt for the poor, showing his concern not with words (or "photo-ops") but with deeds. A man of action, a man of few words. The hundreds of people he had helped without the glare of publicity came forward to sing praises to him, their benefactor, gone so soon.

The superlatives started pouring in when FPJ died at 65. Even those who "maligned" Da King during the election campaign, tearing him to pieces, conceded he was a good man. Questions will forever remain unanswered: Did Da King silently carry deep in his heart the pain unjustly inflicted on him by his foray into the political arena? Did he die, like the king in The King and I, of a "broken heart"? And what broke his heart?

"FPJ didn't die," said a diehard fan. "He will live forever in our hearts."

Da King is dead! Long Live Da King!

Thousands upon thousands, consisting of the poorest and the richest of the land, queued up to get a glimpse of him at the ICU of the St. Luke's Medical Center where he lay in coma from late night of December 11, 2004 when he suffered a massive stoke until early morning of December 14 when he died, and at the Sto. Domingo Church where his wake was held, and an estimated million-plus joined the funeral procession and lined up along the streets on December 22 when he was buried at the North Cemetery.

He was The Idol, The Icon, The Role Model, The True Friend, The Good Neighbor, The Good Brother, The Good Father, The Good Husband. He was all that--- and more! He was The Man!

FPJ was The Man of the Year!

Excerpt from the article:
FPJ: Man of the Year
by Ricky Lo

ALAY NI DA KING: AN FPJ SPECIAL

Click image to enlarge

I am honored and privileged to have contributed, even in a small way, in the making of Alay ni Da King: FPJ Special aired last December 9, 2007 at Channel 2. I thanked the staff of ASIANEYE Productions headed by Ms. Kara Magsanoc-Alikpala for giving me this rare opportunity. Most of my FPJ collections and memorabilia --- posters, movie ads, clippings and some video footages were used randomly during the two-hour special. Watching the whole show brought fondest memories of Da King, his five decades in showbiz condensed and meticulously edited to come up with this spectacular and truly memorable show.

The FPJ Special was a joint project of ABS-CBN and ASIANEYE Productions. It was divided into three parts. The first part (FPJ The Artist) was hosted by Batangas Governor Vilma Santos; the second part (FPJ The Friend) by Aguila co-star Christopher de Leon; and the third part (FPJ The Idol) by Mowelfund head Boots Anson-Roa. ABS-CBN exec Charo Santos conducted a sit-down interview with FPJ’s widow Susan Roces, who also introduced the music video.

The 38-minute music video was conceptualized by FPJ and had personally supervised and edited before his passing on December 14, 2004. It consists of choice scenes from over 200 movies--- including song numbers with favorite leading ladies and child co-stars. His duets with child wonder Nino Muhlach in Leon at ang Daga and Matet in One Day Isang Araw were unforgettable. It was aired without commercial breaks.

There were interviews with industry legends Dolphy, Eddie Romero and Eddie Garcia, co-stars Phillip Salvador, Maricel Soriano, Jaime Fabregas, Caridad Sanchez, Roderick Paulate, Matet de Leon, sister Elizabeth and daughter Grace, nephew, grandson, screenwriter Manny Buising, PRO Susan Tagle, Lo’ Waist gang member Boy Francisco, and of course from his best friend Joseph ‘Erap’ Estrada.

The staff of Asianeye Productions were busy browsing, sourcing and going through all the FPJ ads, posters, clippings and other memorabilias to be used in the making of the FPJ Special.

Part of my collection

THE PHENOMENAL VILMA SANTOS

Vilma Santos is the only actress to have won the URIAN Best Actress award, three years in a row (1982, 1983, 1984). Aside from winning the most number of URIAN Awards- a total of 8 Best Actress. She is the only actress to have scored a guadruple grand slam in Best Actress for the movies “Relasyon” (1982), “Dolzura Cortez Story” (1993), “Bata, Bata...Paano ka Ginawa?” (1998) and “Dekada ‘70” (2002). She is also the only actress to be given two Circle of Excellence award by the FAMAS. She has also conquered the international scene, winning the Best Actress awards in Brussels (1998) and CineManila (2003).

http://www.vilmasantos.net/html/biography.htm

See Vilma Santos: The Child Star

Relasyon (1982)- Stars Vilma Santos And Christopher de Leon / Directed by Ishmael Bernal

Broken Marriage (1983)- Stars Vilma Santos and Christopher de Leon / Directed by Ishmael Bernal

Sister Stella L. (1984) - Stars Vilma Santos, Jay Ilagan and Gina Alajar / Directed by Mike de Leon

Pahiram ng Isang Umaga (1989) - Stars Vilma Santos and Gabby Concepcion / Directed by Ishmael Bernal

Ipagpatawad Mo (1991) - Stars Vilma Santos and Christopher de Leon / Directed by Laurice Guillen

Dahil Mahal Kita: The Dolzura Cortez Story (1993) - Stars Vilma Santos and Christopher de Leon/ Directed by Laurice Guillen

Bata Bata Paano Ka Ginawa? (1998) - Stars Vilma Santos, Ariel Rivera and Albert Martinez

Dekada '70 (2002) - Stars Vilma Santos, Christopher de Leon and Piolo Pascual

PINOY CARTOONS MADE INTO MOVIES Part Two: BAROK and TARTAN

Barok- Hiwaga Komiks (1970s)

Tartan- Pilipino Komiks 1970s

Cartoonist Bert Sarile was the popular creator of two well-loved Pinoy cartoon characters, the caveman Barok and the ape man Tartan. Barok was regular feature in Hiwaga Komiks in the 1970s, while Tartan can be seen in Pilipino Komiks, also in the 1970s. Both cartoon strips were made into movies.

More on Pinoy Cartoons

Barok (1976) starring Chiquito

Tatay na si Barok (1979) starring Chiquito

Sabi Barok Lab ko Dabiana (1978)- this time Yoyoy Villame playing the role of Barok and Cecille Inigo as Dabiana

Barok cartoon- Hiwaga Komiks 70s

Tartan (1981) with Tito, Vic and Joey

Tartan cartoon- Pilipino Komiks 1970s

FERNANDEZ AND FERNANDEZ

Action superstar Rudy Fernandez did a movie on the life of Eddie Fernandez in 1994. The movie, aptly titled Lagalag: The Eddie Fernandez Story also starred Dawn Zulueta under the direction of Romy Suzara.

Presidential Pardon (1982) - The movie reunited Eddie Fernandez with former c0-inmate Berting Labra. Both actors were imprisoned in the late 70s because of their involvement in the fatal shooting of a Bulacan businessman. They were later released on parole by then President Marcos after serving the minimum term.

Did you know that Eddie Fernandez and Rudy Fernandez made a movie together in 1980. The title: Pader at Rehas--- seems like no problem with the billing! Failed to see it during its theater run. Love to see it! The question is--- Is the print still exit?

More on Rudy Fernandez

RAMON ZAMORA AND REY MALONZO: PINOY BRUCE LEE

The popularity and success of Bruce Lee movies --- The Big Boss, Fists of Fury, The Way of the Dragon, Enter the Dragon and The Game of Death --- in the early 70s gave rise to the so-called Pinoy Bruce Lees or Bruce Lee clones. The Big Boss debuted in Manila theaters in 1971 with Chinese Kung Fu star Bruce Lee. It went on to become a largest grossing film in the Far East.The actor was known in Hollywood as sidekick Kato in the 1960s TV show The Green Hornet.

Ramon Zamora was the best and finest Pinoy Bruce Lee in Philippine movies, whose appearance and acting style somewhat resembled the legendary martial arts icon. He starred as the durable komiks character Pedro Penduko in the 1973 Celso Ad Castillo fantasy film Ang Mahiwagang Daigdig ni Pedro Penduko and Return of the Dragon (1974). The resulting success of these films boosted Zamora’s popularity, and he soon became one of the top box-office draws in Philippine cinema in the 1970s

Zamora together with another Bruce Lee look-a-like, martial arts star Rey Malonzo were especially popular for a string of locally-produced martial arts films that emerged following the international success of Bruce Lee. Patterning their film persona around a Bruce Lee-type with a comedic twist, Zamora and Malonzo starred in such films as Bruce Liit (1978), Ang Hari at ang Alas (1978), The Deadly Rookies (1978) and Kambal Dragon (1978).

Return of the Dragon (1974) with Ramon Zamora / Directed by Celso Ad Castillo

The Dragon The Lizard The Boxer (1977) with Ramon Zamora and Meng Fei

Bruce Liit (1978) - Stars child wonder Nino Muhlach, Ramon Zamora and Rey Malonzo

Ang Dragon sa Maskarang Bakal (1978) with Ramon Zamora

Ang Hari at ang Alas (1978) with Ramon Zamora and Rey Malonzo

The Deadly Rookies (1978) with Ramon Zamora, ReyMalonzo and Rio Locsin

Kambal Dragon (1978) with Ramon Zamora and Rey Malonzo

They Call Him Bruce Lee (1979) with Rey Malonzo

Pinoy Boxer (1980) with Rey Malonzo

Pedrong Palaka (1980) with Rey Malonzo

Kato: Son of the Dragon (1983)- Starred and directed by Ramon Zamora

THE 1978 METRO MANILA FILM FESTIVAL ENTRIES:

Undoubtedly, the two best entries in the 1978 Metro Manila Film Festival are Atsay and Rubia Servios.

Atsay is remarkable in several ways. It has a strong social message, aimed at primarily those who forget that maids are also human beings. In the character of Mrs. Anton (Angie Ferro), screenwriter Edgar M. Reyes is able to embody the thousand faults which middle-class housewives are heir to. Atsay can also pride itself on being truly Filipino. Its mood is set by its Pilipino credits (in sharp contrast to the English credits of the other entries). The film deliberately exploits local color, dwelling not only on rural but also on picturesque urban scenes. The story, needless to say, can happen only in the Philippines, where domestics and beerhouses are national institutions. But the most striking thing about Atsay is its cinematography (Romeo Vitug). The slow dissolves, the multiple exposures (such as the brilliant train sequence), the surprising angles, the flawless composition---these border on genius. The cinematography is so extraordinary, in fact, that it covers a multitude of sins. The most grievious sin of all is the ending. In the end, Nelia (Nora Aunor), after having been humiliated, beaten, raped, dehumanized by the vultures of the city, decides to stay in the city anyway in the hope that an impoverished construction worker (Ronald Corveau) will make her live happily ever after. Such ending, while assuring the viewer that human nature is not totally evil, is unmotivated and, in fact, goes against the very theme of the story. For Atsay is the story of how the city dehumanizes, of how human beings become swine (this point is made through blatant symbolism in a shot of Nelia inside a cage-like jeep), of how Manila is a prison (note Vitug’s several shots of cage-like structures). “Atsay” is a story of how individuals are no match against the cruelty of the city. The construction worker, for example, becomes the victim of a construction accident. A young pretty virgin from the province is raped while she’s drugged. A kind-hearted old man is shot down while protesting against exploitation. The ending of Atsay contradicts the film’s affirmations. It would have been much more in keeping with the theme (not to mention the current concerns of the national human settlements program), if Nelia were shown rejecting the city and, in hope, returning to her province for a new life.

Rubia Servios, on the other hand, does not dilute the message. Willy (Phillip Salvador), the son of a powerful and wealthy figure, is portrayed as totally evil, devoid of any redeeming quality. To screenwriter Mario O’Hara and director Lino Brocka, the province is the same as the city. Rubia Servios (Vilma Santos) is raped both in the city and in the country. Rubia kills Willy in the country. Violence unites all places. It is the “unity” of conception, scripting, design, and direction, in fact, that Rubia Servios is superior to Atsay. Lino Brocka does not waste shots in his attempt to create a Filipino classical tradegy. He subordinates everything to the building up of one emotion in the viewer, that of hatred of Willy. So despicable does Willy become at the end that, when he is murdered by Rubia, no viewer can say that Rubia is at fault. And yet, morally speaking, no one is allowed to take the law into his own hands. The law, in fact, put Willy in prison for the first rape. There is no reason to think that the law will not put Willy to death for the second rape. By conditioning the reader to condone Rubia’s revenge, Brocka succeeds in questioning one of our deeply-rooted moral beliefs.
The unity that characterizes Rubia Servios contrasts sharply with the tendency of Eddie Garcia in Atsay to exploit Vitug’s versatility even at the expense of tightness. There are shots in Atsay, for example, which could easily be cut without hurting the film’s integrity. Even the train sequence, one of the best sequences in Atsay, is far too long.

Rubia Servios is Lino Brocka’s film; Atsay is Romeo Vitug’s. Nora does an excellent acting job; but so does Vilma Santos, and Rubia is a much more demanding and difficult role. Edgardo M. Reyes is an established literary figure, but Mario O’Hara is much better screenwriter. Overall, Atsay may be much more impressive than Rubia Servios. In terms of challenging our moral and legal convictions, however, Rubia Servios is much more significant.

Isagani Cruz

TV Times 1979

CHIQUITO: THE STRONGEST MAN IN THE WORLD

Move over the Hulk, Hercules, Bionic Man, Rocky and Samson, here comes our very own, Chiquito as the strongest man in the world. Top ace comedian, Chiquito essaying different characters in his storied movie career.

Saksakan ng Lakas (1964)

Herkulas (1977)

Six Million Centavo Man (1980)

Rocky Tu-log (1981)

Si Samson at si Delilah (1983)

THE TROIKA OF EDDIE, LOLITA AND MARLENE

The novel, Sapagka't Kami'y Tao Lamang by Mario Mijares Lopez was published in the Literary Song-Movie magazine in 1963. It was later adapted into the silver screen.

In 1963, two great Sampaguita talents, Lolita Rodriguez and Marlene Dauden and drama king Eddie Rodriguez starred in Sapagka’t Kami’y Tao Lamang, the movie that turned out to be a sensational and phenomenal hit. The movie garnered the year’s top FAMAS awards--- Best Actor for Eddie Rodriguez; Best Supporting Actress for Marlene Dauden; Best Director for Armando De Guzman. It started the series of the so-called love triangle movies featuring the three dramatic icons in Philippine movies.

Ms. Dauden was memorable in such dramas as Anino ni Bathala (1958) and Kamandag (1959). In both films, Marlene won the FAMAS best supporting actress trophies. She was also awarded the FAMAS Best Actress awards twice: Sa Bawa’t Pintig ng Puso (1964) and Kapag Puso’y Sinugatan (1967).

Lolita, on the other hand, was also a FAMAS Best Actress awardee twice: Gilda (1956) and Tinimbang Ka’t Nguni’t Kulang (1974).

Eddie was one of the greatest dramatic actors of Philippines movies and starred in such classics as Kundiman ng Lahi (1959) and Malvarosa (1959).

Together, the troika of Eddie, Lolita and Marlene made their mark in the local movie industry, pooling their talents to come up one hits after another.

Sapagka't Kami'y Tao Lamang (1963) -
Stars Lolita Rodriguez, Marlene Dauden and
Eddie Rodriguez/ Directed by Armando De Guzman/
The award-winning movie that started the
series of movies with love triangle plots.

Hindi Nahahati ang Langit (1965)-
Stars Lolita Rodriguez, Marlene Dauden and
Eddie Rodriguez with Vilma Santos/
Directed by Lauro Pacheco

Kay Tagal ng Umaga (1965)- Stars Lolita Rodriguez, Marlene Dauden and Eddie Rodriguez/ with Vilma Valera and Vilma Santos/ Directed by Lauro Pacheco

Saan Ka Man Naroroon (1966)- Stars Lolita Rodriguez, Marlene Dauden and
Eddie Rodriguez/ Directed by Lauro Pacheco

Kapag Puso'y Sinugatan (1967)- awarded FAMAS Best Picture- Stars Lolita Rodriguez, Marlene Dauden and Eddie Rodriguez/ Directed by Fely Crisostomo

Sino Ang May Karapatan? (1968)-Stars Lolita Rodriguez, Marlene Dauden and Eddie Rodriguez with Vilma Santos / Directed by Ding M. De Jesus

Ikaw... (1969)- Stars Lolita Rodriguez, Marlene Dauden and
Eddie Rodriguez/ Directed by Luis Enriquez

ANAK NI PALARIS (1955)

Awit ni Palaris (1946)- Sequel to the Palaris (1941) movie starring Fernando Poe, Sr.

Anak ni Palaris (1955) - The first film of Fernando Poe, Jr. He did the movie when he was only 15 years old. The theatrical release date was January 2, 1955.

One of Poe Senior’s big hits was Palaris, a cloak-and-dagger historical romance. Poe senior had made his fame on such films, an extension into the cinema of the moro-moro tradition. In late 1954, Mario Barri, who had worked for the elder Poe, thought of doing Anak ni Palaris and he cast Ronnie in it, making the boy assume his father’s name to emphasize the picture’s relation with the old Palaris. For his first movie role, Ronnie got a thousand bucks and co-starring billing with Rosita Noble and Mario Escudero---but this picture proved disappointing. “One thing I know, it didn’t make money,” Ronnie recalled.

Excerpts from "Batang Taquila" by Quijano De Manila (Nick Joaquin)Philippine Free Press / June 01, 1968

Original 1955 lobby card of 'Anak ni Palaris'

PINOY JAMES BONDS Part Two

James Batman (1966) with Dolphy

Agent Wooly Booley at ang 7 Bikini (1966) with Chiquito

Target: Sexy Rose (1966) with Chiquito and Divina Valencia

Mister 8 Ball (1967) with Chiquito

Pinoy James Bond movies continued towards the end of the 60s and the 70s. After four successful James Bond series --- Dr. No (1962), From Russia With Love (1963), Goldfinger (1964) and Thunderball (1965)--- Hollywood’s James Bond continued to come up one series after another in such blockbuster films as You Only Live Twice (1967); On Her Majesty’s Secret Service (1969) and Diamonds Are Forever (1971). Besides Dolphy and Chiquito, other top local actors, Eddie Rodriguez, Zaldy Zshornack, Nestor de Villa, Romano Castellvi and Romeo Vasquez also joined the bandwagon of spy agents. Also, a female James Bond, in the person of actress Liza Moreno debuted as Agent X-011 in the movie, Dalaga Mayor. Tony Ferrer, Alberto Alonzo and Eddie Fernandez continued to do their usual roles as Agent X-44, Agent 69 and Lagalag respectively.

See Pinoy James Bond Part One

Cobra (1966) with Eddie Rodriguez

The Jokers (1967) with Eddie Rodriguez

The Shadow (1967) with Eddie Rodriguez

Spy Killer (1966) with Zaldy Zshornack

Espionage, Inc (1967) with Zaldy Zshornack

The Golden Buddha (1966) with Zaldy Zshornack

Tiger Lady (1966) with Romano Castellvi

Crossfire (1966) with Romano Castellvi

Lady Killer (1965) with Romano Castellvi

Espiya Kontra Espiya (1966) with Nestor De Villa and Divina Valencia

Dalaga Mayor (1966) with Liza Moreno

Doble Trece (1966) with Romeo Vasquez

The Experts (1967) with Alberto Alonzo as Agent 69

Wanted Johnny L (1966) with Bernard Bonnin, Alberto Alonzo and Eddie Fernandez

Nabubuhay sa Panganib (1966) with Eddie Fernandez

Death Trap (1967) with Eddie Fernandez

PINOY CARTOONS MADE INTO MOVIES Part One

Pinoy cartoon strips and komiks cartoons have always been the favorites of our local film producers. Cartoon characters like Kenkoy, Kalabog and Bosyo, Tacio, Gorio, Sakay and Moy, Tisoy, Barok, Tartan, Max and Jess, among others were adapted and made into movies. The popularity of these characters among the readers could be the primary reason why producers chose and opted to gamble their money for they knew that it’s a guaranteed success in the box-office.
More on Pinoy Cartoons

Kalabog And Bosyo (1959)

Tacio (1961) Starring Oscar Obligacion

Tacio (1981) Starring Chiquito

Hugo, The Sidewalk Vendor (1962) Starring Berting Labra

Gorio and his Jeepney (1962) Starring Chiquito

Sakay and Moy (1962) Starring Oscar Obligacion and Cris De Vera

Max En Jess (1980) with Dolphy, Panchito and Lotis Key