FUN SIDE – The hot election season is over and it’s time to show the fun side of politics, as seen in a rom-com titled “My Candidate,” starring Shaina Magdayao, Iza Calzado, and Derek Ramsay.
In the words of director Quark Henares, “MC doesn’t delve into serious topics like vote-buying, mud-slinging, and electoral fraud. We don’t want it to become a satire, too serious. May isang scene na parating nangyayari sa campaigning. Like pumunta sila sa isang birthday ni Mayor. Tapos may opening prayer, tapos may cross-dresser na host, tapos biglang may sexy dancers. Usual Filipino election.”
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IN PRAISE OF – Direk Quark praises Shaina’s knack for romantic comedy. “It is one big revelation considering that this is her first in such a genre. I love working with Shaina. I think siya lang ang artistang naka-work ko na inaaway ako tungkol sa character niya which I love.”
Shaina plays a life coach and communications trainer, who helps Derek. He plays a congressman seeking a Senate seat, but is painfully shy and a bit withdrawn.
Iza is Derek’s erstwhile girlfriend… and arch rival in his senatorial bid. Direk Quark has also very good words for Derek and Iza, “a pleasure to work with.”
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CHALLENGE – “My Candidate” is a challenge for Quark Henares, his directorial comeback after five years of stay in the US to study. It’s in preparation for eventual takeover of his dad’s business.
But then filmmaking is Quark’s first love and so… he is again before the camera.
And also infront as he has small role in “My Candidate.”
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CAST AND CREW – Also appearing in “My Candidate” are Tirso Cruz III, Al Tantay, Ketchup Eusebio, Nico Antonio, Jay Ignacio, Happy Feraren, Ricci Chan, Jun Sabayton, and Christine Bersola-Babao as herself.
Creative producer is Dan Villegas, himself a director, behind such blockbusters as “English Only, Please” and “Walang Forever.”
Screenplay by Chris Costello, Mikael de Lara Co, and Quark.
Produced by Quantum Films, Buchi Boy Films, and Puko Film.