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Apr 21, 2007 07:03

i am a "mild-mannered filmmaker", according to inquirer's rica. hehe.



Teamwork at play on the set of ‘Endo’

By Rica Arevalo
Inquirer
Last updated 06:49pm (Mla time) 04/20/2007

MANILA, Philippines UFO Pictures has a new “baby” in the upcoming Cinemalaya film fest. Entitled “Endo,” it stars Jason Abalos and Ina Feleo and is directed by newcomer Jade Castro (“First Day High’s” screenwriter).

The title is slang for “end of contract,” and refers to the fate of many casual employees whose contracts expire every six months.

When I visited the set recently, I met its topnotch production team, which includes Michiko Yamamoto (writer of “Ang Pagdadalaga ni Maximo Oliveros”) and Ned Trespeces (“Jologs” screenwriter), who act as the film’s producers. Also at the shoot were assistant director Mariami Tanangco, production designer Jeck Cogama, and cinematographer Wowie Hao.

The atmosphere was very relaxed. Richmonde Hotel’s business center was transformed into a waiting room for wannabe applicants. Michiko was isolated in a corner with her laptop as she was rushing a TV script to meet a deadline. She had to stop, though, when somebody needed money for the next scene. On the other hand, Ned fed us a delicious homemade tuna-and-fruit salad as he talked about the film.

While the lights were being set up, director Jade quietly read his script and referred to his handwritten notes from time to time. He discussed the actors’ blocking with his assistant. At the gym, Emman dela Cruz and Raymond Lee were rehearsing lines with Ina and Jason.

The new director looked satisfied everytime he shouted, “Cut!” It was evident in his smile as he checked the TV monitor. If he saw something wrong, the mild-mannered filmmaker would gently correct his actors.

By midnight, the shoot has yet to wrap up. While waiting, Adolf Alix, director of “Kadin,” another Cinemalaya 2007 entry, and the “Big Time” tandem of Mario Cornejo and Monster Jimenez arrived to show their support -- with pizza and donuts for everyone. It was a reunion of sorts for the original batch of Cinemalaya participants.

As Adolf was showing edited scenes from his movie on a portable DVD player, Raymond recounted how he “stumbled” upon a “hiding” award-winning actress in a market and successfully convinced her to play a cameo in “Endo.”

He withheld the actress’ identity -- upon her request. Naturally, we were intrigued! But, come July, when the third Cinemalaya unreels at the CCP, we will see who the mysterious actress is.
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