Nueva Ecija’s rising star Beaver Magtalas received a thunderous welcome from his fans at the recent premiere of the movie When Magic Hurts in Cabanatuan City.
The province’s local sensation, along with young stars Mutya Orquia and Maxine Trinidad, were greeted by thousands of fans who flocked to the NE Pacific Mall and three of the movie theaters where the romantic film was being screened.
“I’m incredibly grateful that we have the chance to show the movie here in Nueva Ecija. Hindi na nila kailangan mag-travel to Manila to see it,” said Magtalas during an interview before the program. “This is my first big movie, and I wanted to show it to my fellow Nueva Ecijanos, friends, and family.”
“We’re having a nationwide screening but it brings us so much joy to share the movie with our friends here in Nueva Ecija,” he added.
Maxine was equally impressed by the outpouring of love for Magtalas and the entire cast.
“Their love for Beaver is so intense,” she said. “It’s heartwarming to see their support for Beaver and everyone involved in the movie.”
Set against the stunning backdrop of Atok, Benguet, When Magic Hurts explores young love and the power of belief.
Beaver portrays Ernest Buenaventura, as a kind and reliable young man whose life takes an unexpected turn when he meets Olivia (Mutya). Olivia, once enchanted by magic but now disillusioned, crosses paths with Ernesto.
As their romance blossoms, they face the shadows of past pain. Meanwhile, Trixie Callejo (Maxine), plays Ernest’s fiancee who’s determined to make her relationship work with him.
The film, produced by Rems Entertainment and directed by Gabby Ramos, hits cinemas nationwide on May 22.
Joining Beaver, Maxine, and Mutya during the preem held on Sunday were Dennis Padilla, Angelica Jones, Cassie Kim, Dennah Bautista, and Claudine Barretto with Aryanna Barretto, who’s also part of the cast.
Completing the cast are Archie Adamos, Julian Roxas, Blumark Roces, Soliman Cruz, Aileen Papin, and Mohaira Sanama.
Nueva Ecija’s golden boy
Born Ernest Jejomar, Beaver is the eldest son of Alvin and Filipina Mercado-Magtalas. His father serves as a councilor in Palayan City, their beloved hometown.
A multi-talented artist, Beaver showcases his skills in music, playing the guitar, and writing original songs. In 2022, he signed a three-year contract as an artist under ABS-CBN Star Hunt.
Inspired by YouTubers and vloggers since childhood, Beaver found joy in their content and aimed to spread joy himself, albeit in small ways. Starting his vlogging journey in Grade 4, he took charge of editing his own videos.
Beaver made a big screen debut in the sci-fi action fantasy film, Genius Teens, megged by Italian director Paolo Bertola.
In an interview, Beaver expressed a desire to take on serious dramatic roles. He even cited Joshua Garcia as an inspiration in this pursuit.
“I want to be a serious dramatic actor,” Beaver said
Shifting gears towards his film project, the rising star praised the film’s director, Gabby Ramos, for his guidance and ability to draw out top performances from his actors.
“I want to thank direk Gabby for this opportunity,” said the 18-year-old Beaver. “His passion for filmmaking is truly inspiring. I admire how he gets the best out of his actors.”