KRIS’ BEST – Days back, Highspeed noted that one of the Urian best films of the ‘90s was the Mario O’Hara classic “The Fatima Buen Story,” produced by Regal’s Mother Lily Monteverde. By coincidence, Cinema One aired “Fatima Buen” and on second viewing it became even better…more powerful and engrossing and meaningful.
And yes, “Fatima Buen” is Kris Aquino’s best film to date, giving justice to the story of a complex woman jailed for illegal recruitment. The role was emotionally and physically challenging and draining, which Kris faced with dedication.
Kris merited an Urian nomination for best actress. This columnist—on hindsight—felt she could have tied with or even won over Gelli de Belen for “The Sarah Jane Salazar Story,” the bioflick of an AIDS victim.
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AWARDS – Aside from best picture, Urian (1994) also gave awards to Mario (best director), Frank Rivera (best script), Johnny Araojo & Romulo Araojo (best cinematography), George Jarlego (best editing), Joe Climaco (best sound), and John Regala (best supporting actor).
Also nominated for best supporting actor was Zoren Legaspi, who couldn’t seem to believe the good news. He then asked, “Totoo ba ito o eklay lang?”
Like Ishmael Bernal, Mother Lily was Mario O’Hara’s favorite producer. Both directors were moody and hard to please, but somehow they were “charmed” by the Regal lady producer.
Some films lost their luster on second or third viewing, not “Fatima Buen,” which gets even better when “revisited.”
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OTHER O’HARA FILMS – Other memorable O’Hara’s films: “Tatlong Taong Walang Diyos,” “Bulaklak sa City Jail,” “Condemned,” “Kastilyong Buhangin,” all topbilled by his favorite actress, Nora Aunor.
Mario called Nora an “acting genius.” He recalled that on the set of “Tatlong Taong” he rehearsed the actress, who listend intently. When he shouted “action,” Nora gave something more, making the scene more engrossing.
They were all sort of jolted and clapped in appreciation. That was a “genius” in spontaneous acting.
