LAST year was the centennial of Philippine cinema. The celebration continues until this year. In this regard, I nominate – if I may – Nora Aunor as the Actress of the Century.
While at it, I hope the Palace will proclaim her National Artist, an honor denied her unjustly by the previous Palace occupant.
She was already recommended by the National Commission for Culture and the Arts and the Cultural Center of the Philippines.
No other actress deserves the Actress of the Century title. The Superstar. The Brown Cinderella. The People’s Artist.
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OUTSTANDING FILMS – Let’s start with Ishmael Bernal’s “Himala” and “Ikaw Ay Akin.”
Lino Brocka’s “Bona.”
Gerry de Leon’s “Banaue.”
Cirio Santiago, Gerry de Leon, Bert Avellana’s “Fe Esperanza Caridad.”
Joel Lamangan’s “Flor Contemplacion,”
“Bakit May Kahapon Pa?,” “Sidhi.”
Mario O’Hara’s “Tatlong Taong Walang Diyos,” “Bulaklak ng City Jail,” “Condemned.”
Gil Portes’ “’Merika,” “Andrea.”
Brillante Mendoza’s “Thy Womb.”
Maryo J. de los Reyes’ “Naglalayag.”
Elwood Perez’s “Bilangin ang Bituin sa Langit.”
Lupita Kashiwahara’s “Minsa’y Isang Gamu-Gamo.”
Danny Zialcita’s “T-Bird at Ako.”
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AWARDS – On top of local awards, Nora has international honors.
Best actress, Cairo, Egypt’s for “Flor Contemplacion” (also best picture).
Best actress, Penang, Malaysia for “Bakit May Kahapon Pa?.”
Best actress, Brussels, Belgium for “Naglalayag.”
Best actress, Venice, Italy and Hong Kong for “Thy Womb.”
(By the way, belated happy birthday, dearest Guy.)
