Jesusa is a big screen project far different from ones Sylvia Sanchez had done previously. The film, directed by Ronaldo Carballo and produced by OEPM (Oeuvre Events and Production Management), is about a woman who became a willing victim of the prohibited drugs.
The premise of the film revolves around a simple woman who leads a rather “ordinary life” with her philandering husband. The movie is set in a shanty town where drug abuse is prevalent and difficult family dramas are a norm.
During the press conference of Jesusa, which is set for release this summer, it was revealed that the title role was initially offered to Nora Aunor, but before the producers and the Superstar could sign the contract, they had a few disagreements that prompted OEPM to look for a new actress who will play the part.
“It’s my dream project. When I started conceptualizing the film, I told myself, ‘I will not do this without Nora Aunor.’ She accepted it but some things came up when we were about to finalize the contract. But still, I respect her so much,” Carballo told the press.
“I think it’s not meant for her, but for Sylvia Sanchez,” he asserted.
Carballo pointed out Sanchez’s talent and experience as an actress made her fit for the role. He said that the seasoned actress made sure that his vision of the film is what exactly the audience will see onscreen when it’s finally hit the theaters.
In turn, Sanchez said that she has so much respect for the country’s lone Superstar and admitted that what she’s done for the industry as an actress is remarkable and unmatched.
“People should not compare us because we’re not of the same level. I’m far from reaching her stature. I just respect and idolize her. She remains on top because Nora Aunor will always be Nora Aunor. She is the best actress for me,” Sanchez uttered.
Asked if Sanchez somehow felt pressured after knowing that the role was offered initially to Ate Guy, Sanchez admitted that her immediate thoughts were the opposite.
“Since the project was offered to Ate Guy, it only means that it’s a great project. I’d never played an addict before. From the moment I read the script, I knew Jesusa was me. I believe I could give justice to the role,” she claimed.
She doesn’t also mind if she wasn’t the first choice for the role, what mattered to her when she started doing the film, she’s the final choice and she’s the one portraying the character, which she considers very relatable in many aspects.
In Jesusa, Sanchez is joined by Allen Dizon, Ynez Veneracion, Mara Lopez, Malu Barry, Vince Tanada, Fanny Serrano, Beverly Salviejo, Mara Lopez and Uno Santiago, among others.
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No showbiz comeback for Jinggoy
Unlike his best pal, Bong Revilla, Jr., who’s vocal about producing and starring in a film this year, Jinggoy Estrada is not keen on making any movie anytime soon. This he said during an advanced birthday party held in San Juan with the members of the entertainment press in attendance.
“I gained so much weight especially during my time in Camp Crame,” the actor- politician who turned 56 two Sundays ago said.
“I wouldn’t look good on the screen. Probably ‘pag pumayat na tayo ng kaunti,” he said in jest.
Jinggoy debuted as an actor in 1985 via the action film Markang Rehas: Ikalawang Aklat. Since then, he has appeared in 20 movies including Hiwaga ng Panday (1998), Utang ng Ama (2003), and Kimmy Dora (2009).
The last time he starred in a film was in 2009 movie, Ang Tanging Pamilya: A Marry Go Round. And his last TV appearance was in the family drama, Lorenzo’s Time (2012), top billed by then child star Zaijan Jaranilla.
“I don’t have any plans to produce any films as well because of my main focus these days,” he said and affirmed that there’s one thing certain though, he seeks Senate comeback.
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A mini-reunion
It was a mini-reunion for Pop Royalty Sarah Geronimo and reelectionist Senator Sonny Angara when the two did a shoot for a political ad in January. The 30-year-old singer once again has chosen to endorse the politician who advocates lowering of taxes and promote social justice.
This is the second time that Sarah G is endorsing Angara who was elected to the Senate in 2013, placing sixth with 16 million votes.
“I’m so happy to be with Kuya Sonny again. People already know how I give my all-out support to the Angara family since before,” Sarah said.
She added that her heart is close to the Angara family. She first collaborated with the Angaras when she sang the campaign jingle for the late Senate President Edgardo Angara during the 2007 elections.
“I wouldn’t think twice if Kuya Sonny would seek for my help because I admire his works that concern education, and senior citizen welfare,” the pop star affirmed.