Three of Philippine cinema’s most recognizable screen villains are getting a surprising makeover. Rez Cortez, Bembol Roco, and Dindo Arroyo, all known for their menacing roles as syndicate bosses, henchmen, and kidnappers, are stepping into the spotlight as unlikely heroes in the new action-comedy-drama Kontrabida, which premiered worldwide last Aug. 19 on iWant.
Just in time for National Heroes’ Day, the film gives audiences a chance to see these legendary kontrabidas in a different light, reminding us that sometimes, heroes come from the most unexpected places.
Kontrabida flips their typecast roles on their head, casting the trio in characters that mix humor, nostalgia, and heart. Rez plays a retired action star desperate to impress his grandson, Bembol is a former movie crime lord turned plantito and wellness advocate, while Dindo transforms into a one-time villain who becomes a public servant-turned-baker inspiring the youth.
The story takes an unexpected turn when the three are kidnapped by rebels who idolize them for their villainous movie personas. Forced to train criminals, the kontrabidas stumble into a higher calling: saving a town from real-life terrorists and proving they can be heroes on and off screen.
Directed by JR Reyes and produced by iWant and MAVX Productions, Kontrabida also stars Pekto, Tito Abdul, Tito Marsy, Andrew Bongat, Denise Joaquin, Buchoy Ubaldo, Richmond Geraldo, Imy Bantog, and Papa Ahwel.
