FRIENDS – This year, 2017, is Nora Aunor’s 50th year in showbiz. The count starts 1967, when Nora emerged national champion of the singing contest “Tawag ng Tanghalan.” Yes, Nora’s a Golden Girl.
It’s heartening to note that many followers remain loyal friends through the peaks and valleys of Nora’s life.
Ms. Marie Cusi invited this columnist to attend the celebration marking her birthday last May 21… and golden anniversary at the QC Circle Century Hall. The twin affair was hosted by Nora’s followers and friends. Nora’s Friends Forever, ICON, SOLID, GANAP, and Federation. Sorry, I couldn’t make it.
It’s also wonderful to know that journalist – evangelist Daniel Razon is very much behind Guy. Hopefully, he’ll always be around.
By the way, congratulations to Daniel for meriting the top Golden Dove Award, given by his peers in the broadcasting (TV-radio) industry.
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GOLDEN AGES – Nora Aunor, of course, is identified with the ‘70s, the third golden age of Philippine Cinema. The first was the ‘30s and the second ‘50s.
The past decade or so is the fourth golden age of local cinema and let it be said that the Superstar is still very much around. She starred in indies directed by among others Joel Lamangan, Adolf Alix, and of course Brillante Mendoza.
Nora won Venice’s critics’ choice (best actress) for “Thy Womb,” which gave her awards from Asian filmfests. “Taklub” merited excellent reviews in Cannes. Both indies were produced and directed by Brillante.
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PEOPLE’S ARTIST – A few years back, Nora was denied the much deserved National Artist honors, although the CCP and NCCA strongly recommended her to the Palace, which had the final say.
She took it with much grace and humility, saying there were others more deserving. (This columnist can’t think of any.) Well, more than a National Artist, Nora Aunor is the People’s Artist. From brown Cinderella to Icon like no other. A great singer and actress, the greatest.
Think of her films directed by Lino Brocka, Ishmael Bernal, Mario O’Hara, Lupita Kashiwahara, Mario J. de los Reyes, Gil Portes, Joel Lamangan, Eddie Garcia, Romy Suzara, Brillante Mendoza, Gerry de Leon, Bert Avellana, Cirio H. Santiago, Elwood Perez, German Moreno, Artemio Marquez, Pablo Santiago, Mar S. Torres, Totoy Buenaventura, Danny Holmsen, Chaning Carlos, George Rowe, Dandy Nadres.
Some won honors for the country, many broke box-office records, and some were panned. But all of them entertained.
Here’s wishing Golden Girl 2017 the best of everything.