It’s time to bagets it on. By this time next week, you’ll be in your bed, nursing the hangover of your childhood dreams, brought to you specially by #YSProm. If you’re looking forward to the best birthday party you’ve never had, well, you’re not alone. We’re pretty stoked too. There’s a whole lot in store: food, draaaanks, your favorite childhood games, and so much more.
We’ve also got a couple of acts lined up — with a surprise performer in store — and they’re sure to send you into a vortex of nostalgia. Be sure to come in your Sunday’s best ‘cause we’re gonna be nominating more than just a best-dressed couple for the evening, and they’re going to win some sweet swag from our favorite ninongs and ninangs.
Speaking of godparents, don’t forget to make mano and get #blessed from the likes of National Book Store and Swatch, to name a few. Chill out to tunes by acts curated by Wanderland, and grab some chibog by 8 Cuts. Don’t leave early ‘cause we’re giving away a little something from Human to remember the night by.
If you’re already feeling the FOMO — no gatecrashers allowed! — you’re in luck. In the spirit of our 20th birthday and the upcoming holiday season, we’re giving away two passes each to five lucky readers. All you gotta do is post your most bongga baby birthday picture along with a greeting for YS, tag us at @youngstarphils and use the hashtag #YSProm. Don’t laze around ‘cause the deadline’s on Monday, Nov. 21, 9 p.m. Ladies, gents, and kids, start your engines. See y’all.
By Neal P. Corpus
Photos by Ralph Mendoza
Styled by Sam Potenciano
Modeled by Zam of Art Personas
Turtleneck (P1,499) and dress (P2,199) from Sfera and pin from Kita (instagram.com/keeshuuu).
We all remember those Sunday mornings when our moms would pick out our best clothes to go to Mass then Grandma’s house after. It was probably that lacey dress with the scratchy bow, or those baggy slacks and an oversized button-down “because you’ll eventually grow into it.” But for this year’s YS Prom, throw it all out ‘cause there ain’t no chaperones allowed in this shindig. But you still gotta put your best foot forward. We expect nothing but the best, and you better not rest on Sunday ‘cause you still gotta put your #YSProm look together.
Tee from Proudrace and ruffle skirt from Basic Movement at mizandmoxie.com (P3,500).
But what exactly is the look, you ask? Since it’s our 20th birthday bagets bash, put on your #sundaybest and blow all the kids outta the water. It’s a little bit of this, a little bit of that: be daring in a deep-v cocktail dress, but keep it mommy-approved with a turtleneck peeking out, because you might want it to start with a kiss but keep it classy to stay up at bat. Throw it back to the ’70s in velvet or go child-friendly ’90s in light-up shoes — keep it jej, make it classy, just make sure there’s no half-assed measures.
Frames from Sunnies Specs (P1,999 for eyewear package), choker from Forever 21 (P160), top from B.Niu at mizandmoxie.com (P5,000), and velvet flares from Basic Movement at mizandmoxie.com (P1,800).
Earrings from Forever 21 (P280), velvet top (P1,300) and flares (P1,800) from Miz + Moxie x Basic Movement.
By Tin Sartorio
Art by Ianna Rallonza and Shy Cabajar
Before we hit the big two-zero, we’ll celebrate the last moments of our teenage dream with a major #throwback party. This year, #YSProm is all about having the best birthday bash we wish we had. In true Pinoy style, we have a few pleasant surprises and — trust us — you really wouldn’t want to miss it.
But what would a kiddie party be without our OGs? No, we don’t just mean the gang we hang out with IRL. The YSProm guest list has always included the biggest names in the creative industry. But much of who we are right now are also because of our childhood friends — yes, including the fictional ones. We grew up reading a lot of books and watching too much TV, after all. So since it’s our 20th birthday, here are 20 fictional characters we’re inviting to YSProm to take us on a nostalgic trip like no other.
Little couple (McDo commercial)
It doesn’t take much to rekindle an old flame. #YSProm is a perfect time for catching up with old friends and we’d love it if the kids from that McDo commercial could come to our party together. We never really knew if they actually ended up together (sharing an order of fries could mean a lot of things) but we can always hope, right?
TJ Detweiler, Recess
There’s always that one guy who’s friends with just about everyone at a party. Remembering names and making the rounds for besos is a huge task on its own but these people have fun doing it anyway. It only makes sense that we invite the “It” guy of Recess and the playground — TJ Detweiler. He’s funny, charismatic, and he might even be able to introduce you to your crush. Yeah, you’re welcome.
Margot Tenenbaum, The Royal Tenenbaums
You know your party is legit when the kids who are too cool for this sh*t show up. #YSProm is probably not Margot’s thing but we’ll invite her anyway. We’ll even save her a slice of cake in case she feels like not staying at home to smoke in her bathroom. Why? Because she’s a Tenenbaum, obviously.
Shaggy Rogers, Scooby Doo
We remember Shaggy and Scooby Doo from their many adventures, but even more so for their big appetites. While they’re really fun guests to have around, it’s best to keep them away from the #YSProm food booth. They can see anything edible as a Scooby snack and we all know what happens after that.
Angelica Pickles, Rugrats
She’ll probably just judge us all at #YSProm but she wouldn’t be Angelica Pickles if she didn’t. She’s a bully (and she knows it) but she’s was also a big part of our childhood. Since we’re all grown up anyway, it might finally be time for a quick honest chat with her. She’ll probably just call us all stupid anyway, but that wouldn’t just that make for a good drinking game?
Ese and Joey, Gimik The Reunion
The ‘90s was the golden era of Pinoy loveteams and at one point in our childhood, we wanted what Ese and Joey had. They made us laugh, squeal, and ugly cry in Gimik The Reunion (or any Jolina-Marvin sighting, tbh). While they’re not together anymore, we can’t help but want to see them again for old time’s sake. Who knows, they might even indulge us with a song and dance number. (Chuva choo choo, anyone?)
Twister Rodriguez, Rocket Power
You know what they say, “snap or it didn’t happen.” Besides the occasional drunk clips, we actually enjoy taking videos of our daily activities. But when you’re having too much fun living it up, it’s best to have friends that can record your memories for you. Having Twister Rodriguez in YS Prom would be perfect. He skates around with a video recorder in hand so he’ll definitely catch every snap-worthy moment and still look cool at the same time.
Rory Gilmore, Gilmore Girls
As far as girl crushes go, it couldn’t get any better than Rory Gilmore. First of all, she’s well-read and her witty comebacks are impressive. As she returns to our screens again, we can’t help but want to catch up and hope to get the inside scoop on the Netflix Gilmore Girls special. That, and we just really wanna see our crush again and find out how they’re doing.
Chuck Bass, Gossip Girl
Everyone knows that there ain’t no party like a Chuck Bass party. It’s not like we’ve ever been to one (we can only dream!) but we do know that every spoiled rich kid can throw an epic rager. Since it’s our 20th birthday, one of our wishes is to party it up with Mr. Bass and the many cool kids he’ll roll with. Street cred plus points: check!
Brian Griffin, Family Guy
Well, it’s not like you’ll need another reason to drink at YS Prom. But having Brian Griffin around will definitely have you needing another round of drinks or maybe even five. This Labrador is cultured enough to talk to you about anything from jazz to a novel that he wrote. He can hold his alcohol and keep an interesting conversation at the same time. That should be fun.
Barb, Stranger Things
Every party group needs a designated driver. #YSProm is happening on a school night this year so it’s best to be with a driver who can get you home safe and before curfew. Barb’s Stranger Things stint was also way too short but YS Prom is the perfect occasion to get to know more about everyone’s favorite barkada tita. Who knows, a few drinks in and she might actually show us her wild side.
Sarah ang Munting Princesa
She will give you a run for your #YSProm queen dreams. Our exclusive guest list includes some of the best creatives any publication could dream of. But the buzz of our party really comes from the appearance of the hottest names in town. It’s 2016 but photos of Sarah from 1985 (in the form of memes) are still very popular in our feeds. If that doesn’t scream “influencer” then we don’t know what does.
Ryan and Sharpay Evans, High School Musical
Young STAR loves people who take their costumes seriously like Ryan and Sharpay Evans. A little sparkle never hurt nobody but a lot of creativity in your #YSProm outfit might just get you an award. With this dynamic duo around, everyone will surely step up their #throwback fashion game. Now, wouldn’t that make for a pretty souvenir picture?
Karen Smith, Mean Girls
Everyone loves a low-key bitch like Karen. Living it up as a member of the “Plastics,” she’s funny and friendly but can be such a bully too. Did we mention she can predict the weather with her boobs? We’ll never really know when that might come in handy. (P.S. It will be very helpful for this year’s #YSProm.)
Peyton Sawyer, One Tree Hill
#YSProm is a night of celebrating Young STAR and the many contributors that give it meaning. In a crowd full of artists, we think Peyton Sawyer would fit just right in. Besides having great taste in art and music, she also established her own music label. Young STAR always recognizes the passion of our youth, and these are the kinds of creative pioneers we’ll always support.
Kenan and Kel
What’s a birthday party without a clown? By that, we mean the funny guys, not the creepy dudes on our newsfeeds. Despite all their shenanigans, this dynamic duo actually taught us a valuable lesson: it’s okay to fail, just keep on dreaming anyway. But then again, we really wanna see them at #YSProm for their jokes and the endless prank attempts. That, and to finally find out what’s in their orange soda.
Ugat-Puno, Sineskwela
So much has changed since our legit kiddie birthday. But we gotta give credit to the OGs who got us to where we are now. Remember Ugat-Puno, the talking tree from Sineskwela? We haven’t seen him in awhile but we still want to invite him to YS Prom. We found comfort knowing that we’re not the only ones who are sabaw early in the morning. (Ugat-Puno was very confused for most of the show.) But besides that, he kinda helped us pass our Science subjects too. That’s, like, a lot.
F4, Meteor Garden
They were probably not your first crush but that doesn’t mean your attraction to them will ever die. You probably even lost a few friends fighting over them. But that’s the kind of grade school drama that made the good old days so memorable. We’re pretty sure having the F4 boys in YS Prom will trigger even more nostalgic moments that’ll start some great conversations.
Raven Baxter, That’s So Raven
There’s always that one person who brings the party wherever they go. While we find her psychic powers super cool, we also love Raven Baxter for her contagious energy. She can break it down on the dance floor, belt it on the karaoke, and keep up an engaging conversation. Who wouldn’t want her at a party?
Fred and George Weasley, Harry Potter
We’d love to invite all the characters in the Harry Potter series but we feel like saving that for another #YSProm. (Yule ball-theme, anyone?) For now, we’re sticking with the redhead Weasley twins. There’s more to Fred and George than their mischievous pranks but that’s really one of the main things why they seem awesome enough to hang out with. You know what they say: double the trouble, twice the fun.
It’s hard to resist a good mystery. The Snyder boys in the film 2 Cool 2 Be 4gotten ooze mystery, from the film’s trailer to its promotional posters: pale skin against starchy uniforms; unspeaking, brooding, with just the barest hint of a smirk. They draw you into a world you don’t quite know, and we become the actor Khalil Ramos — the middleman in this situation — in that way. We don’t really know where we’re headed, but we’re going in, anyway.
2 Cool is the latest film by director Petersen Vargas; it’s his first full-length feature for this year’s Cinema One Originals. It tells the story of a friendless boy named Felix (Ramos) whose life takes a turn after the arrival of the half-American Snyder brothers (Ethan Salvador and Jameson Blake). Without giving too much away, the ’90s-set film explores themes of growing up and friendships that come with it — all set to the textured background of Angeles City, a place that has come to be known for its red light districts and many Amerasian children.
Made more exciting is the fact that 24-year-old Petersen is a young filmmaker to watch out for, having made his mark in so many ways since his years studying film at the University of the Philippines. Back in 2015, his 20-minute thesis film Lisyun qng Geografia traveled the world, going to film festivals in Mindanao, Pampanga, Thailand and Mumbai. When it arrived at last year’s Cinemalaya Film Festival (which put focus on short films), it earned Petersen the Best Director Award. Petersen has been nominated for the Gawad Urian Awards and the Cinemanila International Film Festival and won Best Short Film at the 26th Gawad CCP for Short Narrative.
And so we unspool Petersen’s latest intriguing creation, a gritty slice of life in Pampanga, written by his co-Kapampangan Jason Paul Laxamana. (Laxamana recently directed the dark comedy Mercury is Mine, which competed at this year’s Cinemalaya Film Festival.) Just before the film’s premiere, we talked to Petersen about the wealth found in exploring one’s roots, the appeal of adolescence as storytelling device, and why love fades but friendship is, well, forever.
YOUNG STAR: Can you tell us a few things about the film? What inspired you to write it?
PETERSEN VARGAS: The film is called 2 Cool 2 Be 4gotten and it’s written by Jason Paul Laxamana and directed by me. It’s an entry to this year’s Cinema One Originals fest. The nature of the project — it didn’t start as a collaboration, actually. Jason Paul wrote it first, thinking that he’d direct it.
At the start of 2016, I approached Jason Paul with the thought of asking him to co-write this whole other concept that I think was perfect for us to work on together. Instantly, he thought of the more perfect idea: why not read this script that he recently wrote, that he suddenly thought I was fit to direct? At that time, I never imagined that my debut feature was going to be lifted from another person’s material. But the moment I read the screenplay, which was previously entitled Dos Mestizos, I could already see the film playing in my head. I saw myself in the lead character Felix, and how he went through all sorts of awakenings during a very turbulent time in high school. Add the fact that the story had a very Kapampangan characteristic into it, and that it was telling the narrative of post-Pinatubo Angeles City, seen through the eyes of three complicated and conflicted youths.
It wasn’t like I was inspired to write something. It was more of being suddenly inspired to translate something already beautifully written to moving images. It was definitely a new thing for me to do.
You’ve always shown your Kapampangan roots in your work. How did your heritage inform this film? How did you want to portray your hometown this time around?
Yes! Actually, I didn’t experience high school in the late ‘90s. My generation came much later. It was Jason Paul, the writer, who definitely saw all this happen. But what was very interesting for me was that, even if we came in much later, like around more or less a decade after, the situation was almost the same. It almost felt like it was a lived experience, reading his story about Felix and the Fil-Am Snyder brothers. This whole phenomenon seemed like it was entrenched in the Kapampangan life.
Angeles City has always been known for pretty disturbing narratives about its red light districts, its working women, and its fatherless Amerasians. You could almost see a modern noir thriller being born out of its gritty and depressing state. Not to mention that even back in college, I was an intern for this documentary production helmed by a New York-based filmmaker who was out to capture the “essence” of Angeles City’s Fields Avenue. But it shouldn’t always be like that, right?
I felt like Jason Paul Laxamana, in his screenplay, wanted to represent the Kapampangans living against that backdrop in a different light. I mean, I still don’t want to pretend that the film didn’t come out just as dark and twisted in one way or another. The truth is that it might always end up that way, or that it’s already there, staring you right in the face. I guess the way I wanted to portray it was through an honest and sincere lens. It was difficult to get there but I hope we did.
Like your characters in Lisyun qng Geografiya, the kids in 2 Cool are also in high school. What motivates you to explore adolescence as a device to tell stories?
I guess it’s a stubborn way of not wanting to grow up yet? No, I’m kidding. Sort of, haha.
I guess every storyteller always has their own thing, and this is my own thing — telling stories about young people. There’s something about the fragility and vulnerability of youth that really challenges you to go deeper. What’s so beautiful about immaturity? What’s worth telling about indecision, restlessness, and all these unnecessary feelings that we only come to understand a few years later?
Whenever I ask these questions, there’s always a good story or two somewhere in there.
A lot of your work touches on LGBT relationships in a very humanizing way (i.e. not the usual way gay relationships are portrayed in film). How did you explore in this film, if you did?
Thank you for saying that.
I guess part of it is that… I’m gay? Haha, no, it’s true, though. I remember when I was in a Q&A session after a festival screening of this French lesbian film called Summertime, and up came the producer-director tandem onstage, who happened to be a long-time lesbian couple. They were talking about how, a year before principal photography, they were at the Cannes premiere of the Palme D’or-winning — you guessed it right — Blue Is The Warmest Color. When the credits were rolling, the producer of said tandem went, “Oh no, the film we’re just about to make was already made.” But that didn’t stop them from pursuing their dream project. The end product was a much more sensual, and grippingly raw portrayal of a woman’s sexual awakening, upon having met the first woman of her life.
There’s really some merit in actually having lived (through) what the characters in your story might experience. Or at least to have understood at some level. With 2 Cool 2 Be 4gotten, the exploration came from the thought that here’s our hero Felix, who’s a very blank person. His very first friend is an attractive half-American boy, who has an equally handsome mischievous young brother. He only comes to understand relationships as informed by his burgeoning friendship with these two boys in his life. What does that make you understand about attraction and affection?
Photo by Karen de la Fuente
Cinema One Originals has always been known for experimental film shooting. Did you take opportunities to explore the kind of filmmaking you haven’t done before?
Yes, and I really admire that about Cinema One Originals. It’s the local festival that really introduces fresh, new concepts and always, each year, an exciting roster of both first-time filmmakers and some household names with rather intriguing and groundbreaking projects.
For this film, I guess there’s also some risk in the techniques we tried to explore in making it. We shot the film with a square ratio (not a perfect square, but more like the Academy ratio of 4:3), for starters. And that, in itself, gave way to several challenges and limitations during production. But it was a risk worth taking! I felt that, even with that very simple decision, I grew as a filmmaker in many ways.
What do you hope the audience will take away from this film?
Can I just repeat something that I’ve already said to some Cinema One Originals-related interview? If I remember it right, I told them that most people would say that love can last forever. But I disagree. Love fades. But friendship is forever. Or should I say, “4-ever.”
By now, we’ve all probably come to know what to expect when one goes to Boracay: fine sand, glistening waters, and hangover-inducing nights — temptation island, basically. But it’s when you wake up with your head throbbing and limbs aching that your choices in lodging will make a difference.
Enter Coast Boracay and its restaurant, Cha Cha’s. The breezy, open and light-colored hotel and conjoined restaurant is not a groundbreaking idea, but what sets this combo apart is its focus on comfort. We all know that dreadful walk to and around D’Mall in search of somewhere to eat — especially during peak season — all while trying your best not to let your head explode. Cha Cha’s is only a few steps (okay fine, maybe 50 steps) from the hotel’s rooms, and effectively eliminates the harrowing experience of having to walk through throngs of people just to get a proper hangover meal. And that’s not even the best part yet.
Staying at the hotel gets you coupons to Cha Cha’s breakfast buffet. But no, this is not your usual crummy tapa, corned beef or tocino kind of buffet. The breakfast selection is pretty expansive but not overwhelming; just enough to ensure that ingredients are fresh and flavors are kept in tip-top shape. And boy, is the food good. There’s not a more accurate description other than it feels like a warm hug — and that’s only slightly exaggerating.
Chef Kalel Chan describes the restaurant as light and breezy, and they incorporated this feeling into the food as well. Better than an aspirin, if I may say so myself. A highlight of the breakfast buffet is the tapa, and no, it ain’t the crummy kind. Cut into thin slices reminiscent of Japanese gyudon, it’s a little bit sweet and not too salty. Best of all, it melts in your mouth. They also serve stone-fired breakfast pizza (because why not?) that’s light and airy, topped with a runny sunny-side up. There’s a whole lot more — breads, salads, noodles, ulam. Chef Kalel says they rotate the menu six times a week, so there’s never a dull moment and umay is not in its vocabulary.
If you find yourself just hanging out at the hotel for the whole day (trust me, if you stay at Coast, you’re never gonna want to leave), the lunch and dinner menu is even more robust. The poke bowl is, for the lack of a better word, amazing, with a punchy-spiced salmon and fresh cucumber, avocado and Japanese pickles. Freshness is emphasized not only in this signature dish, but throughout the menu as well. The chef explains that they try to get as many ingredients sourced locally, so it doesn’t get stale and a feeling of lightness is kept throughout.
But what’s a beach trip without any seafood? There’s a plethora of sea-tasting offerings, but if you’re looking for home comfort on the beach, nothing beats the guava sinigang. Served with a variety of mouthwatering fish and shellfish, it’s enough to challenge your mom’s cooking, topped off with the freshness of Boracay’s breeze and sunshine. If you’re up for something a little bit more sinful, the Ilocos style bagnet will send you right up to nirvana, with the crispiest skin, succulent pork, and just the right amount of fat on each bite-sized piece. You’ll definitely want to order extra rice for this.
Speaking of sinful indulgences, Cha Cha’s bar serves up the perfect drink for any occasion on the beach. You can always get the classic Pale Pilsen while lounging on the famous sandy beach, but their cocktails elevate the experience ‘round the clock: whether it’s dinner and drinks, sipping mai tais by the pool, or even spiking that breakfast shake — they’ve got you covered. The Chotto Matte highball is the perfect all-day drink: light enough to welcome the day, but enough to get you buzzed while working on the night’s pre-game. Their Maui Mai Tai is great for when you’re just lounging by Coast’s dipping pool or by the beach, serving up just the right amount of pineapple and cherry while basking in the sunlight. If you’re feeling a little bit adventurous, the Beach Fuel should fire you right up: it’s a version of Rocket Room’s Rocket Fuel made for the beach, with a spicy kick at the end of each sip. A couple of drinks should be able to get you up and dancing (But hey, if you’re looking to get another hangover, no judgment). They’ve got a pretty wide selection to choose from — classic, safe choices are available too — but you’re on vacation. It’s okay to live a little.
Depending on how you look at it, going to Boracay is always a paradise or an extra challenge. It’s great that there’s an almost never-ending list of places to eat and drink at, but if you’re just looking to relax and have a good time — which is the whole point of even going — then Cha Cha’s and Coast should have that all covered for you. Light, open spaces? Check. Drinks by the beach (or the pool)? Check. Great food at your fingertips? Check. Headache? Nope, not here.
Cha Cha’s and Coast Boracay are located along the beachfront of Station 2, Boracay. For more information, visit coastboracay.com and find them on Instagram @chachasboracay and @coastboracay.
Nothing is ever original anymore,” today’s moviegoer laments. We live in a time when every other high-profile film seems to be an unnecessary reboot, a tangential spin-off, or a set-up for a set-up for a cinematic universe. But once a year, the Cinema One Originals festival, now in its 12th edition, comes around to prove us wrong; there’s lots of originality just waiting to be seen.
The festival has built up a reputation for being the closest thing we have to an experimental film festival in the country. This is because the festival has proven its willingness to accommodate filmmakers who really want to push the boundaries of their craft. Here are just a few Cinema One entries that use unconventional techniques to show us things we’ve never seen before.
Bukas Na Lang Sapagkat Gabi Na
(Jet Leyco, 2013)
Lots of independent films go for unique visual styles. They play around with color, black-and-white, saturation, lighting, etc. to make us see the world in different ways. But Jet Leyco’s Best Film winner goes a step further from unique to unhinged by distorting visuals as you watch them — switching different colors on and off, drawing lines and shapes over characters while they’re talking, and a load of other strange choices. It’s hard to say what everything means, but for a film as bizarre and unsettling as this, the visuals only enhance the experience.
Violator
(Dodo Dayao, 2014)
Another Best Film winner, Dodo Dayao’s horror film starts out by showing the audience a series of unconnected vignettes for what feels like an hour. There’s no story to follow here — just a bunch of creepy images and sounds that put you on edge for what happens next. The second half of the movie involves a group of police officers stranded at a precinct with a possessed prisoner. At this point, Violator fools you into thinking that this’ll be just another short segment. So when the horror at this precinct goes on and on until the end credits roll, it feels like you’ve spent an eternity in hell — and that’s a good thing.
Manang Biring
(Carl Joseph Papa, 2015)
Rotoscoping is nothing new in the global film industry, but you almost never see it used in Filipino movies. It’s an animation technique that involves drawing over footage frame-by-frame to produce surreal and eerily lifelike moving pictures. Manang Biring understands that this technique isn’t just for empty style. Carl Joseph Papa uses it to bring us into the world and mindset of his titular character, who finds herself struggling with terminal illness. It’s great to look at, but also manages to capture a pain and longing that would otherwise be impossible to communicate.
Six Degrees of Separation from Lilia Cuntapay
(Antoinette Jadaone, 2011)
Before Antoinette Jadaone hit the jackpot and changed local romantic comedies forever with That Thing Called Tadhana, she released a little mock-documentary about one of Filipino cinema’s unsung heroes: horror movie extra Lilia Cuntapay. Again, mock documentaries aren’t novel, but Jadaone didn’t just use the form as a way to earn laughs. She managed to solidify Cuntapay’s status as a lowkey legend, while telling a universal story about reaching for one’s dreams late in life. Lilia Cuntapay may be gone now, but her life — both the real and fictional parts of it — lives on in our hearts forever.
Ang Damgo ni Eleuteria
(Remton Siega Zuasola, 2010)
Using a long take is an easy way to impress an audience. On the other hand, filming an entire movie in such a way so that it seems like it was done in one unbroken shot might just win you an Oscar — Birdman pulled it off, after all. But even before Alejandro Gonzalez Iñarritu won his golden statue, Remton Zuasola did the real thing. Ang Damgo ni Eleuteria was, in fact, filmed in one continuous 90-minute shot — and not just for show either. The technique puts us in the shoes of our heroine, who is about to be sent off to Germany to become a mail-order bride. And no cuts in the action means no space to breathe. There’s no stopping her fate.
Si Magdalola at Ang mga Gago
(Jules Katanyag, 2016)
Jules Katanyag’s film (one of the seven narrative features in competition this year) is actually two movies in one. The first part, entitled Si Magdalola, is a coming-of-age crime drama with magic realism and elements of Filipino folk mythology. The second part, Ang mga Gago, is pretty much Quentin Tarantino’s Kill Bill. Genre-bending and splicing happens so often nowadays that it’s tough to see it as innovative. But Si Magdalola at Ang mga Gago uses all the best parts of its borrowed genres, and turns the insanity up to 11.
Lily
(Keith Deligero, 2016)
The first thing you might notice while watching Lily is how it totally defies any conventional ideas about film editing. Instead of telling a linear, coherent story, Keith Deligero tells multiple stories out of order — often interrupting his own characters mid-sentence. It’s not the easiest watch, but it requires the audience to piece things together and think for themselves — which should really be common practice for all films at this point.
The 2016 Cinema One Originals film festival runs until Nov. 22 at Gateway, Glorietta, Greenhills, TriNoma, and Cinematheque Centre Manila.
They say that Filipinos celebrate Christmas early. But I’m starting to think that we just like to prepare for the holidays in September because we’ve lived here long enough to know that December can be a nightmare. People are getting their gifting lists ready to avoid the impending traffic but everyone seems to be thinking the same thing. Christmas is here — as well as the traffic that comes with it.
Aside from preparing gifts, I’ve also heard about friends prepping their bodies for the Christmas food intake. Once your titos and titas text-invite you to the annual family Christmas party, you know you’re in for another night of lechon and queso de bola. I don’t know about you but having a buffer for the parties is always a good idea. Plus, there’s nothing wrong with being active once in a while, especially when you’re going to be stuck in traffic for about four hours every day.
Nike Training Club (NTC) set out a challenge to get back on the healthy track in time for the holidays. Scrolling through the all-new, relaunched app, I’ve seen some old favorites — Ellie Goulding’s Tighten and Tone is perfect for runners — and a bunch of new workouts. One of the new ones that stood out was the partner workout with Serena Williams and Kevin Hart. You can also invite your friends and keep track of each other’s progress if you really want to get that partnership going.
Another highlight of the new app is the monthly plan that you can start any day (you can’t let that rare workout motivation go to waste, can you?). NTC will customize it according to how active you currently are and how active you want to be. For starters, the app suggests workouts that will focus on mobility, instead of endurance and strength. It really eased us into the lifestyle and helped us build the stamina to endure higher-intensity workouts. And if you miss a week of your program, NTC will customize the program to help you get back on track. It will also sync your runs recorded through Nike Running Club so you don’t have to manually input your data every time you workout.
The best thing about NTC is it’s free. Say goodbye to your gym membership, because with the current road situation, you’ll never be happier to work out at home.
Nike Training Club is available in both Apple and Android devices.
Boracay is a small enough island for a tourist of multiple visits to say, “I’ve seen it all.” I have become one such annoying vacationer; after seeing Boracay from when it was barely populated until it turned into its own kind of megalopolis, I was pretty sure there was nothing about it that could surprise me anymore. Sure, its sand and its waters will always be beautiful, but what is so new about it when it has shown me every iteration of mixed drinks, tropical-themed hotels, and the occasional drunk guy on the beach?
Ever the cynical city girl, I mused over those thoughts as I headed to Boracay — and didn’t expect to spend the best time I’ve ever had there. And to think, on this trip I barely left my room. No bars to drink bad cocktails at or long walks down the beach, even. In my three days there, I basically lived it up at Coast Boracay, a new hotel managed by the Raintree Hospitality Group and owned by the Beach Design Hotel Group that pretty much sums up the best parts of a tropical holiday. Think of what you could possibly want in your dream vacation — minus Chris Hemsworth in board shorts — and imagine all of that neatly packaged into a boutique hotel in Boracay.
When I say that dreams come true here, I mean it. Whether you’re coming from the bus station (from Kalibo) or the airport (at Caticlan), Coast already has you covered. We were picked up by the hotel van at the airport then were dropped off at Coast’s own jet boat — complete with complimentary water bottles and ambient music that puts you right into a holiday mood. We were told that this is all part of the Coast package as soon as you book a room with them; ground transportation to and from the hotel are all covered. And in an island that requires multiple transfers just to get you to and from your beachfront hotel, this is actually a huge relief. (Less time worrying about that means more time to work on your tan, basically.)
Coast isn’t a huge hotel — just 71 rooms spanning three floors. But it is an undoubtedly gorgeous building. In fact, the Young STAR team and I made a game of taking a drink whenever we’d see passersby stopping to take a photo in front of the facade. I mean, it’s that pretty. Coast’s hotel front is an airy, all-white dream — the open-air restaurant Cha Cha’s greets you on one side, which features a deck you can have breakfast on (highly recommended) and the front desk has a gorgeous wood panel and a placid pond to greet you as you enter. The brilliant part of this architecture is that from any vantage point at the lobby floor, you get a view. Raintree Hospitality Group president Annabel Wisniewski says that this was deliberate on their part. They wanted guests to have lunch at Cha Cha’s and enjoy the scenery from whenever they were seated. “It’s all blue,” she says. You either faced the beach or looked into the hotel’s swimming pools (a dipping pool, a kiddie pool, and a lap pool.) Coast is one of the few places in town with pools of its own, but I would say that this isn’t even the most notable part of the whole Coast experience.
Something we noticed the minute we landed in Boracay that Coast takes seriously and many hotels do not: branding. A small thing, perhaps, for the traveler used to the usual accoutrements, but it definitely speaks volumes of what a hotel values — especially to a younger clientele. Coast teamed up with Team Manila on various aspects of their hotel branding, including the staff’s really witty shirts. Everyone wore pique shirts with clever designations on the back: the maintenance team’s shirts said “Neat Freaks,” the security team’s shirts said, “Like Men in Black, but in white,” for example. It felt warmer, in so many ways, and it perfectly matched the hotel’s uber-personalized service. This is something Coast’s general manager Randy Salvador takes pride in, and something we saw while we were there. You really feel like you’re being taken care of while you’re there.
In fact, we felt borderline spoiled as soon as we got there. Even while we were just lapping in the pool, a pool butler stood close by to take drink orders and hand us fresh towels even before we needed them. By the time we decided to cap off the day with a quick nap (okay, a three-hour nap) before dinner, turndown service would come knocking with chocolate fondue. We could enjoy cocktails everywhere — personal favorite, the Chotto Matte highball — at the restaurant, by the pool, or by the beach. Seriously, this was our life for three days. And we haven’t even gotten to the rooms yet.
This is why I was hardly bothered by the fact that I basically hibernated for three days. Coast Boracay offers a host of room types: from the practical deluxe, the elevated premier room, the spacious one bedroom (where we stayed; perfect for a barkada getaway), and a loft for those who want to live it up. Each room also has a Smart TV and hi-speed WiFi; so you can actually spend a whole day watching Netflix without realizing that it’s time for dinner. Another common denominator is that all rooms offer the most amazing — and I mean, amazing — beds you’ll ever lie on. Ms. Winniewski says it’s a mix of spring and foam that makes them so comfortable, but I’m willing to bet that angels were involved in their creation. I mean, that’s the only thing that makes sense to me.
Everything else in the rooms is a visual treat. The design sensibilities of Coast put a lot of emphasis on Filipino craftsmanship. All the furniture you’ll find in the hotel was made in Cebu, while some of the pillows feature the famed Yakan weave. On the walls are murals by local artists, and while we were there, they were mounting gorgeous beach photos by photographer Pilar Bonnin. According to designer Erik Lopez of Erik Richard Design, it was all about putting the guests in the mindset of the perfect holiday. “We want our guests to feel like they’re really here,” says Erik.
And that sense of presence, of being aware that you are enjoying a slice of paradise, permeates every part of Coast. While we were there, Halloween celebrations were in full swing on the island. Coast had nice sunset sessions by the beach, inviting beatmakers both from Manila and Boracay to play music that was far removed from the usual EDM fare. Honestly, what else is there to ask for?
Despite all that it offers, Coast is far from finished. According to the Raintree Hospitality Group, Coast will soon add a gym, a kids’ playroom, and a dining area for private functions. There will also be a small pseudo-spa/massage room by the pool area. Best of all, there will soon be a rooftop bar that will offer amazing views of the island. Coupled with Coast’s signature cocktails, this will definitely be one you shouldn’t miss.
On our last day in Boracay, the wonderful staff of Coast gave me a cute door hanger that says “Pet Inside.” They’re a dog-friendly hotel, they tell me, and I rejoice at the thought of finding the perfect hotel. (What is wrong with this place? I wanted to ask. Nothing, absolutely nothing.)
And so there’s the rub of finding the perfect hotel in the most beautiful island in the world: how in the world do you leave? It was raining intermittently while we were there, so I quietly prayed for some rain showers to delay our exit for a bit. But like a mean joke, the sun came blazing back when we were told that the car to take us to the jetty port was ready. I may have seen it all in Boracay, but at Coast, I’ll be back for sure.
Coast Boracay is located at Station 2 Beach Front, Brgy. Balabag, Malay, Boracay Island, Aklan. You can reach them at +6336 288 2634, +632 576 4555 (their Manila office), or via email at [email protected]. For more information, visit coastboracay.com, Instagram @coastboracay and facebook.com/coastboracay.
Well, here’s a sound piece of advice: you don’t really need to travel far to learn something new. A quick break from your everyday routine is enough to get a fresh perspective. But it’s also not every day that a fashion exchange program takes you halfway across the world for a one-of-a-kind cultural immersion. What happens then? You might just end up with a set of new friends, techniques and innovative ideas for a fusion collection.
Last Oct. 27, six young Filipino and Dutch fashion designers showcased their unique 18-piece collaborative collection at the final show for the Manila Fashion Festival Now. This year marks the 65th year of diplomatic bilateral relations and 150th year of consular ties between the Netherlands and Philippines. As they aim towards building a stronger friendship, they tap into the fashion industry to foster a culture of innovation. “This collaboration between the talented fashion designers from the Philippines and the Netherlands provides an amazing opportunity to pave the way for sustainable fashion to be woven into the future of design,” said Netherlands Ambassador to the Philippines Marion Derckx.
As a celebration of the great Filipino-Dutch friendship, Filipino fashion designers Damaris Chua, Riza Bulawan and Nina Gatan, along with Dutch fashion designers Zena Ankersmit, Loes van Nijnatten and Britta Bentele, went on a three-phase exchange program. They were able to attend a series of lectures and master classes in both countries. Besides the workshops, they were also able to fully experience the fashion culture by attending the Amsterdam Fashion Week and even visiting embroidery centers in Tagaytay and Lumban, Quezon. And what would an immersion in Philippine fashion be without sourcing fabrics in Divisoria amid all its chaos?
On the runway, what the designers showcased were skillfully constructed garments and even more beautiful stories of coming together. The program doesn’t aim to homogenize the style of the six designers. In fact, it highlights their unique personalities. The thing about getting inspiration from your travels is that you not only learn about another culture; it reminds you so much of your own, too. With the way the designs successfully came together, it’s easy to see that the relationship between the Philippines and the Netherlands is even more interwoven than ever.
If you weren’t tuned into the many Twitter kerfuffles last week, let me help you get caught up in as few words as possible. College boys find high school girl cute and talk about her in an obscenely sexual manner — complete with a penis drawn over her selfie, of course, and fantasies of masturbating to a young picture of her when they’re old — in a Facebook group chat. High school girl finds out about the conversation because college boys intentionally add her into the group at least three times. High school girl’s cousin posts screenshots of this conversation on Twitter, in an attempt to raise awareness of blatant misogyny, sexism and objectification, and while many rallied support behind the high school girl and her cousin, many still cried “foul” and claimed that public shaming of the college boys was “going too far” and “done for attention,” because obviously, women are just being their usual noisy selves and “boys will be boys.”
This may seem like a very small issue, when so many anti-women males are grabbing seats of power all over the world, but this is how sexism seeps into human consciousness. When we fail to stand up against “small” crimes like this one, we fail to stop sexism in its tracks, and we let it grow into a monster that’s even harder to fight. What is the message we’re sending to men, women, and to young boys and girls, when we say it’s okay to talk about women this way?
Much of the anger surrounding the issue likely escalated when unrelated parties jumped in to defend the college boys. We’re told:
1. It’s not that big a deal. But it is. This is how sexist behavior develops and festers. When we say that it’s okay to engage in these “harmless” jokes that ultimately degrade and demean women, we say that it’s okay to do it on a larger scale. We can try and stop this from happening again and again by calling sexists out.
2. They’re doing it for attention. Even if they were doing it for attention, it’s not for the kind of attention defenders seem to think. The fact that this situation blew up means that, thankfully, more women have spoken up to say that this kind of behavior is not okay. And even though there are also women who spoke in favor of the perpetrators, at least it’s being discussed and the issue has come to light.
3. Why didn’t she go to the police? In this particular case, the high school girl and her family were already in the process of settling the matter in private. Unfortunately, we still live in a society where victims are generally compelled to prove their victimhood. Going to the police does not ensure justice, and many members of the police force, as with all other branches and industries, still hold sexist beliefs.
4. You don’t have control over the disrespect you get, only how you handle it. It’s really astounding how people seem to think that it’s okay to expect the victim to be the one to adjust to being victimized. How about we actually try to make sure that there is no disrespect that needs to be handled in the first place?
5. Boys will be boys, ganun talaga. Just because this is the current state of things, it doesn’t mean that we ought to keep living this way. Feminism has gotten a bad rap, because it’s viewed as an extremist movement where noisy feminists hate men and want to take over the world. It’s not that we hate men; it’s that we want to be viewed as equals, to receive equal rights, to be given equal respect. And what is so wrong with wanting that?
We have grown up in a world where men’s interests are favored over women’s, where making a sexual joke at the expense of a woman is acceptable because men need to be entertained, where the cause of rape is reduced to the victim’s clothes instead of the rapist’s actions, where we don’t even have the right words to explain male privilege to men. Because whatever we say will never be enough for them to stop and actually listen.
When we say “boys will be boys” as though it’s adequate explanation for sexist behavior, we say that men are above women, that it’s okay to keep disrespecting all women, even those in power. When we keep excusing the little things that make rape culture, workplace sexism, anti-women danger real, we say that it’s okay because this is the way it’s always been. It’s our job to keep saying, again and again, that it’s not okay and that it shouldn’t be this way.
By Coco Maceren and Gaby Gloria
Art by Sean Eidder
Remember when making a wish on 11/11 was a thing? Once upon a time (that time probably dating back to late 2011), Nov. 11 became a day for hopeful souls to tweet whatever wishes they had in mind. These ranged from the desperate, “11:11 sana pumasa ako sa Math exam ko!” to the more malandi “11:11 I hope he notices me.”
The fad is still in place (as immortalized in a recent song by K-Pop singer Taeyeon), but less common than it was before. Lucky for you guys, today is 11/11, and for Young STAR’s 20th birthday, we’re bringing back the tradition and declaring that we have a free pass to wish for whatever we want. With what’s happening to the world right now, we all could use a wish or two… or maybe even 20.
KEEP THE YOUTH WOKE.
Judging from the public outcry from the #MarcosNotAHero to the “boy talk” issue, it’s clear that the youth have no problem voicing out their opinions. The youth are next generation’s leaders, after all. We’re the ones who will create solutions for future problems, and we wish that we stay “woke,” to keep fighting battles that must be fought. Fight for education, fight for dismissal of ignorance, fight for equality.
VITALITY INSTEAD OF VIRALITY
People should stop having to resort to public shaming via social media posts just for others to wake up and take notice of important issues.
EQUALITY FOR EVERYONE
The gender spectrum has never been just black and white. Instead, it’s a spectrum of colors. We wish for everyone to finally feel included. Equal rights for everyone. Every class, race, gender and sexuality.
CARLY RAE FOR POP QUEEN
We wish that more people would appreciate Carly Rae Jepsen’s “Emotion and Emotion: Side B” for the masterpiece that it is. No more questions — just go and purchase her album.
SHUT UP AND LISTEN
A lot of Twitter and Facebook comment wars start from peoples’ unwillingness to listen and understand others. We wish that people kept an open mind before making judgments and accusations.
STOP AND WALK
One of the major causes of stress, traffic and accidents is the country’s lack of reinforcement of proper jeepney and bus stops. We wish for brighter and better days for commuters. Gone are the days that a jeepney or a bus stops on any part of the road. We live for the day when we’ll see people walking, following rules and getting down at the correct stop.
TRAFFIC BE GONE!
Need we say more?
WE’RE ALL BAND AIDS
Remember Almost Famous? Before dancing in the pit, Penny Lane described the difference between a groupie and a “band aid.” A band aid inspires the music. These are the people who are there because of the music. We wish the same for everyone attending every music festival. We wish that more music festivals be executed properly, with a good mix of local and foreign acts — and that everyone dances like Penny, and enjoys the music the way it must be enjoyed.
DOGE APP
Wishing for animals to finally talk is a long shot. But we wish for an app that assists people in deciphering what animals mean when they whimper, bark, howl or meow. Wouldn’t you want to know what your furry ‘lil friends are saying?
LONG LIVE THE PRINTED WORD
Some major titles may have folded this year, but we still wish for the printed word to stay alive. At the same time, we wish that people keep reading — not just listicles but long forms like novels, essays, newsletters, etc.
PATRONIZE THE ARTS
Culture and the arts are fundamental for a civilization to thrive, and we wish for more people to patronize them. We wish for more people to enjoy local music, literature, art and craftsmanship in order for those industries to churn out more quality work. Give them attention and give proper credit to those who keep culture and the arts alive.
KEEP CREATING
Borrowing from master creative and #YSGirlGang member Abbey Sy, we wish that everyone keeps creating, whether in the field of art or whatever else.
DON’T HATE, APPRECIATE
We wish for everyone to learn how to appreciate, and be thankful. Most of the time, showing appreciation for one another and/or the universe can make a big difference.
KEEP THE MAGIC ALIVE
We wish for the next generation to have their very own version of Harry Potter, or have something reminiscent of it. Magic should live forever and ever and ever, in whatever manifestation.
NO MORE MENTAL HEALTH STIGMA
Gone are the days that people are afraid to accept and discuss mental illness. Help is on its way, always.
SELFLESS LEADERS
We wish that our leaders could magically come together to actually work for the good of the Filipino people. Selfishness and corruption has turned us all against each other. We need to unite to bring back the glory of our motherland.
ACTION REACTION
Doing charitable work should go beyond Christmas, birthdays, and special holidays. We dream and hope of a time when more and more people will realize that there is more to the world than the bubble that they live in.
PEACE
We wish for the end of armed conflict in Mindanao, for peace in the Middle East, and for harmony between countries. The world needs less of the reds.
TAKE CLIMATE CHANGE SERIOUSLY
This is not a hoax, and it is definitely not an “Obama-created-climate-change” plea. But we wish that the youth continues to take a stand against this important issue, and that within the next 20 years, everyone does one something to change it.
YOUNG STAR BREEDS YOUNG STARS
For the past 20 years, Young STAR has been a platform for the youth to speak up and get inspired. It has opened doors for the young ‘uns and the young-at-heart to connect with one another through the written word. We wish that in the next 20 years (or more), this exchange will never stop.
When it comes to staycations, three things are essential: accessibility, entertainment and pampering options. Novotel Manila seems to have checked off three out of three.
Getting to Novotel is fairly easy. It’s located right at the heart of Araneta Center so you have plenty of options to get around. Within proximity are two shopping centers and Araneta Coliseum — always a good thing if you’re a concert fanatic.
As always, check-in is at 2 p.m. but somehow, on the day of our staycation, traffic was on my side so I got there earlier. I picked a random table at The Gourmet Bar, one of Novotel’s restaurants. There was an AFAM (A Foreigner Around Manila, in case you’re not in the loop) vlogging to my right. On the other side, there was a group of business having a serious conversation involving charts and numbers. There was a good mix of business and pleasure in the environment.
Somewhere between ogling other people’s food and listening to their kickass early ‘00s playlist, the chef approached the aforementioned AFAM. “Are you ready?” the chef says. The AFAM said yes with enthusiasm. And right on cue, a waiter brought out a huge goblet filled with 15 scoops (I didn’t count, I overheard) of ice cream. Called Le Mont Gourmand, the challenge was to finish the entire thing. There seems to be no time limit so you’d think that it would be easy. But the struggle was visible on his face. So far, my overnight staycation at Novotel was already interesting.
My room’s view from 14th floor was unexpected. You’d think that Cubao was just a jump-off point for travelers who want to go out of town for their dream vacations. But from the hotel, it looked like a place where new adventures can take place. For the first time, I saw Cubao in a different light.
Their deluxe room was luxurious but it utilizes the space well. One of the highlights: the shower encased in a glass divider overlooks the bedroom, and the rest of Cubao. But if you’re not comfortable with taking a shower that the outside world can also see, you can always pull down the electronic blinds. (Pro tip from the manager: You can use the blinds as a timer for charades. If your team doesn’t guess the correct answer before the blinds reach the floor, then you lose.) Another fascinating feature is the double bathroom doors that were disguised as closet doors. I was so ready to get ready in the cold but my snooping paid off.
Of course, what’s a four-star hotel without stellar Internet connection? I was lounging on the extremely comfortable bed watching Haters Back Off when Marga Buenaventura, our print editor, texted. She was apparently covering the A1 presscon that was set to perform in Araneta Coliseum that weekend. I promised her that I would do my best to find their hotel rooms (the concert venue conveniently located right next door!) but I was pretty sure that I’d just see other fangirls checked in. (Note to self: Book a room in Novotel if ever One Direction decides to hold the Manila leg of their comeback concert series in Cubao.)
A little more exploring in the hotel brought me to their premier lounge. It’s at the topmost floor, ensuring you of the best view while you’re having your morning coffee and getting some work done. The snacks table is also open all day so you don’t have to worry about paying for room service for a cookie and a cuppa joe. The lounge is only open to VIP guests, to maintain greater privacy.
Located at the sixth floor is their top-notch gym and pool. Their gym is quiet and well equipped with dumbbells, mats, medicine balls and so much more. The pool is quite huge and it can be seen from all the floors so make sure you wear your cutest swimwear if ever guests decide to take a Snapchat. The fifth floor is home to their InBalance spa where you can take your staycation to another level of chill. I tried their Swedish massage and it was one of the best I’ve ever had. Spa packages are also available and, for sure, something that I will go back for.
That night was peaceful to say the least. With unlimited Netflix choices (again: fast Internet connection) and a good room service selection (they’re vegetarian-friendly), I had a good night at Novotel. To cap off my stay, next day’s breakfast buffet at the Food Exchange Manila was remarkable. They have the basics: cereals, milk, yogurt, bread, juice, coffee and all that jazz. They have Filipino and Chinese food for those craving rice and soup. But best of all, they have hummus and a variety of dipping sauces. Two racks of spices and sauces were displayed in one of their counters and I just stared in fascination and appreciation. There’s no better way to start the day.
Short but sweet, our staycation was the perfect mix of relaxation and opportunities for exploration. Although it’s in the middle of a booming business and entertainment center, Novotel provides the much-needed peace and comfort for guests looking for a home away from home.
“Di ka ba kinabahan kasi may mga endorsements ka rin?” A member of the press asked me this at the C1 Originals press conference. Let’s allow that to sink in. I was asked if I was afraid to take on a lesbian role because of my endorsements. This is how the majority may possibly already see the LGBT community — as something not to highlight in the community because it’s taboo. Unusual. Different. Or simply, something they don’t fully comprehend.
Just like parties aren’t your usually locations for business proposals, just like lesbians aren’t your usual choice of main characters in a film. And that’s how it all started. Say hello to my newest film: #BakaBukas. The story revolves around Alex (played by yours truly) who falls in love with her best friend, Jess (played by Louise Delos Reyes).
So, what happens nga ba talaga when you fall in love with your best friend? I don’t really know, but our director Samantha Lee does and it’s through this film where I understood exactly just that. Masakit pala. It’s also quite taunting and gives you a little bit of anxiety — like when you don’t know if it is okay to fall in love with that person. Direk Sam gave me a wonderful script that was unthinkable to pass up on, so we both worked together to make our visions work. She may be new to full-length narratives but she definitely has the spark for it.
JASMINE CURTIS-SMITH: How long did it take for you to write the script for Baka Bukas?
SAMANTHA LEE: It took me around 10 days to do the first pass I think. I remember I had to get it done before flying out to Melbourne so I was in a coffee shop every day just writing.
Other than giving a different perspective of the LGBT community, what else would you hope the viewers could take away from the movie?
A lesson you may have learned or a pain unknown to some? (Ouch.) Ikaw, Jasmine, did you learn any lessons?
Listen to your director.
It's funny because doing this film helped me process a lot of things that happened to me three or so years ago. Like everyone's pain is valid, even if it's not on the same level as yours. And sacrifice comes with resentment, even if it was your choice in the first place. Did you find it weird that you could relate to my pain?
It’s more comforting rather than weird.
True. You were the one thing I didn't have to worry about (much).
What's the biggest hurdle you encountered in your first narrative full-length film shooting? How did you overcome it?
I’m usually very controlling. I’m usually very guarded with my feelings, and this time I couldn’t do that. I had to be accessible to my actors, to put myself on the same emotional level as them so that they trust me more. And I had to learn how to trust. I mean, in essence, I gave my heart and said, “Here, do with it as you wish.” But not in a romantic way.
If you think about it, you’re the veteran and I’m the rookie in this situation. A lot of times I wanted to ask: “Am I doing this right?” “Am I f**king this up?” You only started calling me direk in on the fourth or fifth day of shooting and I’ve always wondered if that was when I grew into the role.
If you could score the movie with international artists, would you? And what songs would you use?
I know you can help me out with this one! M83, Wet, Death Cab for Cutie, New Order. Who else? I wrote the entire first draft of the film listening to Weak by Wet over and over because I wanted the film to encapsulate that song: a joyous insecurity. And Third Eye Blind’s Deep Inside of You.
I think there's a secret language that exists between people who love the same music. “Your pain is my pain,” I think.
Yes! Definitely! Hence, the "F.U. Sam!" during that one scene. Where did you get your inspiration for the aesthetic and feel of the film?
What’s good about working with a team I grew up with is that they know my aesthetic. Do you remember when we were on the way to shoot that scene in the field and I was describing to Sasha what was going to happen? She said, “Oh, that’s very Sam!”
Alex’s bedroom is the most me. The weekend before the shoot, Whammy came over and just got random stuff from my bedroom. I told him I wanted the paint color to look like something I picked as a child and eventually had to live with as an adult. There were photos of one of the girls I dated on the walls! There was a lot of Kanye paraphernalia. He even threw in references to my old films.
Did you find that a lot of the physical aspects of the role helped you become Alex?
I loved that the room was so personalized. Not sure if you noticed but I looked at ALL the photos on the wall. I was trying to find and figure out if your ex would be on it. (Laughs)
Hahaha, OMG. Let’s not.
Is there anything you would hope to have done differently in the filmmaking process or was it everything you hoped it could be?
A LOT! DO WE HAVE TO TALK ABOUT THIS? THIS IS GOING TO GIVE ME ANXIETY. Hahaha, joke.
Honestly this whole time I’ve just been praying to get the best possible iteration of this film possible so what gets me through is just the belief that all the heartbreaks were for a reason.
Ikaw? Were there parts of Alex you would have played differently?
The room aided me with kicking off the first day. It was sort of a base I used for my character for the rest of the shooting days. I saw the posters on the wall of the artists that Alex listens to, and so I listened to them. The majority were also bands or artists I loved too, so I guess — and like you said — there's that kinda "secret" language that made me “feel” Alex.
I think in terms of the physicality of the role it helped me a lot that we have the same piercings. It grounded me in weird ways like there would be moments where I would be watching you on-screen and just have this out-of-body moment of me being there.
Like Doctor Strange!
Yeah, I haven’t seen that movie. Most of the time, I'm so far from you guys. There's a certain distance so I'm detached from this character who is supposed to be kind of me. Then when I see that piercing, it's like a Taser to the heart.
“Yes” to piercings! I was so happy when you didn't ask me to take them off. I usually get told to do so because it doesn't fit the “pretty damsel in distress” character. What can you say about the press interpretations of certain themed films like this? The questions usually asked, the reviews of the audience, the ideas formed of the film, etc.?
So far we’ve only dealt with press. And that has been mostly disheartening but expected. It shows just how far we have to go in terms of being able to represent the LGBT community properly. I always say that I’m in this little gay bubble and I think that the things discussed in this film are non-issues. But they are issues to a lot of people. Two girls kissing is still an issue.
Jasmine, you had to bear the brunt of a lot of the politically incorrect press stuff. I put a certain amount of pressure on you in terms of being able to deliver the message well. And for the record I just want to say I’m super proud of you.
The pressure was warmly and gladly welcomed, direk! I always love being able to make a stand for what people refuse to understand or make room for. Rather than allowing them to always make jokes in order to avoid the real topic matter, I've found this amazing empowerment when I can make them listen.
I think they're listening. Fingers crossed.
Is there anything you would like to say to Jess now?
Hi! Please watch Baka Bukas, Nov. 16-22 as part of the Cinema One Originals festival. (Laughs) I actually think she’s coming to the gala. I’ve had this note saved in my phone since February that I told myself I was going to send to her when it was time to invite her to the screening. Wala. It’s still there. Unsent.
When you think of Philippine fashion, what usually comes to mind are a variety of gowns: for weddings, debuts, and for the Star Magic Ball. But while there is little difference in talent, fashion industries abroad are much larger because of one crucial ingredient: ready-to-wear.
Don’t get me wrong. There are RTW designers here — some pretty good ones, I might add. But there are just not a lot that you see regular people wear. Online retailer Miz+Moxie aims to change that. Online shopping isn’t new, even for Manila, but what differentiates this label is a desire to put young, local fashion into daily wardrobe rotation. It’s pretty accessible, too, logistics and price-wise. What’s most exciting about it is that they’re doing collaborations with new designers to bring something different with a local flavor.
With the traffic only getting worse and the Christmas shopping season approaching, it’s only smart to save on gas and effort and get some new digs with just a few clicks. Hit two birds with one stone and #supportlocal while you’re at it.
Shop at mizandmoxie.com and find them on Instagram at @mizandmoxie.
49, @geraldineroman
Respresentative of the 1st District of Bataan
It’s not easy ferrying between Bataan and Batasan on the regular, and Representative Geraldine Roman does it with grace — in every sense of the word. It may be her first term in Congress, but Geraldine now represents a revolutionary idea in Philippine politics to find its voice: that the LGBT community deserves to enjoy the same rights as everyone else. As the first openly transgender woman elected to Congress, Geraldine has helped champion the LGBT cause by working to pass the anti-discrimination bill, along with other elected lawmakers known as “equality champs.” She also happens to be working towards centralizing the distribution of scholarship grants for more students to have access to free education. It’s certainly no cake walk to exact change on a national level, so how does Geraldine do it? “With the full conviction that what I’m fighting for is what is right and what is just,” she says. — Marga Buenaventura (Photo by Arabella Paner)
How does one introduce Shaira Luna? With billboards, magazine covers, and editorials under her belt, Shaira is definitely one of the biggest names in her field. But even with a decade of experience in photography, Shaira says that there is still much to be done. For her, the learning process is never ending: the constant lookout for inspiration, researching for concepts, and lots of practice helped her grow creatively. Going against what’s current, Shaira says that she gets inspired by looking at things that other people don’t really look at. Her dreamy cinematic work shows us themed stories that often leave us hungry for the possibilities of the image. The quality of her work is the result of her perseverance and dedication in practicing her talent — proving that persistence really does pay off. — Ina Jacobe (Photo by Shaira Luna)
Esme Palaganas has built her own fashion label, generated a following, and has been a fixture in the glossy pages of local rags and fashion shows. It’s hard to imagine that just a little more than two years ago she was still in college — but I guess that’s the speed in which millennial drive and success goes. Once you get to talking with Esme, you realize that she’s more than just a fashion girl. She currently handles every single thing for her label Basic Movement, from designing to dealing with production to corporate accounts. “I love the business side,” she shares. Esme is currently working on growing her fashion business — it’s in its “not a girl, not yet a woman” phase, she says — and she’s slowly realizing that it can’t just be a one-woman-show from here. “It’s the support of the right people,” she says. No harm in marching to the beat of your own drum, but you get by with a little help from your friends. — Neal Corpus (Photo by Arabella Paner)
