By Ronald Constantino
’80s AND BEYOND – Joel Torre and Albert Martinez started acting in the ‘80s and are still around to date. More mature and even much better actor, the years giving them more depth and range. As they say, two of a kind.
Joel took showbiz by storm, in a manner of speaking, via Peque Gallaga’s “Oro Plata Mata.” Albert was a Regal contract star initially paired with Snooky Serna in flicks directed by the late Joey Gosiengfiao.
Already in their 50s, Joel and Albert look forward to more roles onscreen, both big and small. And winning more awards and accolades along the way.
Let’s look at their outstanding film credits.
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JOEL TORRE – After “Oro Plata Mata,” Joel made another fine film for Peque, “Unfaithful Wife.”
He was directed by:
Lav Diaz in “Batang Westside.”
Celso Ad. Castillo in “Isla.”
Erik Matti in “OJT,” which gave him a best actor awards – Japan filmfest and Urian.
Laurice Guillen in “Init sa Magdamag.”
Marilou Diaz Abaya in “Karnal” and “Milagros.”
Mike de Leon in “Bayaning 3rd World” and “Bilanggo sa Dilim” (video).
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ALBERT MARTINEZ – Joel Lamangan in “Pusong Mamon,” “Sidhi,” and “Muling Umawit ang Puso.”
Maryo J. de los Reyes in “Magnifico,” “Laman,” and “Hindi Mo Ako Kayang Tapakan.”
Tikoy Aguilluz in “Rizal sa Dapitan,” and “Sigurista.”
Erik Matti in “Scorpio Nights 2.”
Chito Roño in “Bata, Bata…Paano Ka Ginawa?”
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CO-STARS – Joel Torre and Albert Matinez were co-stars in Butch Perez’s “Mumbaki,” playing missionary doctor and Igorot warrior, respectively.
If memory serves Highspeed right, it was the first and to date only film they were together.
By the way, Albert was the first choice for “Oro Plata Mata,” but he had no time to fly to Bacolod and stay there for months for the shoot. Peque gambled on his La Salle Bacolod student, Joel. Which paid off.
