Kapuso actor Alden Richards is pleased with the positive feedback he and Kathryn Bernardo are getting on their maiden big screen collaboration, which is why he feels more motivated to do prepare himself to do the film.
“It’s all very encouraging,” he says. “Of course, there are still some whose reactions are negative but majority are excited and looking forward to the project. In fact, even Tito Boy (Abunda) commented that it’s a fresh combination. At least, there’s something new that the public can watch.”
Having Kathryn as his latest leading lady is a welcome thing for the Pambansang Bae.
“Actually, it’s a huge relevance considering that we’re affiliated with competing networks. Imagine, the two of us doing a movie together.”
In a recent interview, Alden admitted that he was surprised, shocked even, when he knew that he was pairing with the Kapamilya star.
“Kathryn is kind. She’s got a pleasing personality, very sweet and accommodating, too. When news about the story conference came out, I instantly felt the good vibes, the confidence that Star Cinema people gave me. That early, I was certain that the working atmosphere for the movie will be light and enjoyable, like ours in Victor Magtanggol before,” the 27-year-old actor said.
Alden recalls how glad he was when he first learned that Star Cinema has a movie offer to him.
“I knew I had to ask permission first from my bosses in GMA and APT. I approached them personally and discussed the matter. Mr. Tony Tuviera is so easy to talk to. He agreed right away. The same with GMA who’s been very good to me in the last nine years. I’m just very grateful.”
In preparation for his movie, which will be shot in Hong Kong, the popular heartthrob is following a strict diet and studying Cantonese.
“I already lost 11 pounds. It took me two weeks to be at 168 pounds from 179. My goal is 160. My diet is mostly vegetables, fish and boiled chicken. No meat, sweets, carbs, salt, even fruit,” ends Alden.
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Now that his perennial screen partner and rumored girlfriend Julia Barretto is doing a film with Gerald Anderson under Star Cinema, many ask how Joshua Garcia feels.
“Actually, it’s just fine with me. Honestly, I’m proud of what Julia and I achieved both as a love team and individually. We’re blessed to be working on separate projects. For me, it’s such a good development,” he avers.
Did he and Gerald talk about it?
“Nope! We’re both professionals. Gerald is like an older brother to me. In fact, we even have the same handler.”
Asked if he’s open as well to the thought of working with other actresses, the dramatic actor said that it’s fine with him to star in projects without Julia as my partner.
“I guess, it’s for our respective growth as actors. Given the choice, I would like to do a potboiler opposite Ms. Angel Locsin. That would be nice!”
Their fans need not worry though for after I Love You, Hater, they will be seen next in Block Z.
“That’s right. It’s a horror vehicle about zombies and is being directed by Mikhail Red. It’s exciting because it’s a different genre. I myself got scared during our shooting. Fans shouldn’t miss it,” states Joshua.