‘DIREK’ COCO – In no time, Coco Martin will be addressed as “Direk” as he’s decided to helm (and star in) “Ang Panday,” meant for the Metro Manila Film Festival.
“Panday,” of course, was originated by the great Fernando Poe Jr. and created by Carlo J. Caparas. It’ll be recalled that FPJ starred in four versions of “Panday,” all MMFF blockbusters. And that it was remade by Bong Revilla, with Peque Gallaga directing. Jinggoy Estrada starred in a movie inspired by “Panday,” directed by Carlo.
There were two TV versions of “Panday,” topbilled by Jericho Rosales and Richard Gutierrez, respectively. Echo’s “Panday” was directed by Toto Natividad and Chard’s version helmed by Mac Alejandre.
“Direk” Coco ought to update and expand his “Panday,” preferably supported by Star Cinema’s legion of stars. Is he co-producing “Panday”?
By the way, “FPJ’s Ang Probinsyano” has been extended up to early 2018. Good news to mostly action stars whom Coco casts in the ABS-CBN teleserye. He’s involved in the production of “Panday,” hands-on and exacting.
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BEFORE HIM – Many other actors turned directors before Coco Martin.
The most successful are Eddie Garcia and Laurice Guillen, who won many awards as directors…and actors. Eddie has three FAMAS Hall of Fame trophies for best director and best actor, in both lead and supporting roles.
Laurice has won the prestigious Urian for director and actress.
Eddie’s finest films (as director) include “Atsay,” “Saan Nagtatago ang Pag-ibig,” “Pinagbuklod ng Langit.” Laurice’s best are, among others, “Salome,” “Tanging Yaman,” “American Adobo.”
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MORE, MORE – Other actors-turned-directors (movie, TV, or even commercial):
Cesar Montano, Ricky Davao, Dingdong Dantes, Gina Alajar, Joel Torre, Richard Gomez, Michael de Mesa, Albert Martinez, Robert Arevalo.
While Joel Lamangan is primarily a director (both cinema and theater), he’s also a fine actor. Same could be said of the late Mario O’Hara.
Looking back, ditto FPJ, Leroy Salvador, Eddie Rodriguez…and even Poe Sr., who produced and directed the first “Darna” in 1951.
Come to think of it, Nora Aunor, Vilma Santos, and Chanda Romero tried directing once.
And now Coco Martin, call him “Direk.”