By Ronald Constantino
PET PROJECT – For “El Peste” (The Pest), director Richard Somes’ choice – and no one else – is Mon Confiado. He’s handled Mon from way back and is aware of the actor’s depth and range, called for by the role, a solitary soul working in a pest control company, his sole connection to the outside world.
Inspired by a true character, “El Peste” showed there are exciting stories told through the eyes of an ordinary man – adventures, sexual escapades,heartaches, dreams,triumphs.
“El Peste” is the movie on the mind of Richard for 15 years..thanks to the coming Sinag Maynila Film Festival (March 7-15) it found a venue (SM Southmall, Manila ,Sta. Mesa, Fairview, and Bacoor).
Mon is greatful to Richard and other indie directors for giving him lead parts that challenge and excite him.
DIRECTORIAL STYLE – With Mon Confiado in the cast of “El Peste” are Jean Judith Javier, Alvin Anson, Jim Libiran, Leon Miguel, and Tikoy Aguiluz ( yes, the veteran filmmaker).
Mon is very familiar with Richard’s directorial stytle. After all, they’ve worked in “Corazon,” “Supremo,” “Mariposa,” among others.
“Wala kaming script. Karamihan ng lines improvisations. Sinasabi lang ni direk ang sitwasyon at kami na ang bahalang gumawa ng pag uusapan,” Mon noted. “Kaya natural ang dating ng mga eksena. Napakaganda rin ng production design.”
The PD team is composed of Richard’s students in his production design and acting workshops.
EROTIC DRAMA – “El Peste” is an erotic drama seldom done these days, unlike in the ‘80s. Then the late Celso Ad.
Castillo , Peque Gallaga, and Erik Matti (his mentor) made realistic but artistic films.
“El Peste” is Richard’s tribute of sorts to those directors.
Mon and Jean Judith had several love scenes, which was okay with the actress being a product of stage and knowing Direk’s caliber. Problem was she didn’t want to offend her religious aunt, a “pastora.”
He had to visit Jean Judith and her aunt several times to explain and justify those erotic love scene, which were eventually shot.
Mon has a FAMAS award, best supporting actor for Eddie Romero’s “Faces of Love.” He has completed shooting the monumental “Goyo,” where he portrays President Emilio Aguinaldo. Mon played the same role in “Heneral Luna.”
