and Janine Gutierrez
by Nestor Cuartero
JUST A THOUGHT: “For every minute you are angry you lose sixty seconds of happiness.” ― Ralph Waldo Emerson
•
NEVER WITH DOGS OR CHILDREN: There is a belief in old Hollywood that an actor should be wary about doing a scene with two most unwanted co-stars.
First on the list are children. Next to them are dogs.
Actors, especially those on the A-list like Elizabeth Taylor in her heyday, used to shy away from roles that called for these two as co-stars for fear of being eclipsed by them because of their natural propensity to steal scenes. With their uncanny ways, children and animals – dogs especially – command the highest human interest level.
Some of the most famous dogs in film history include Beethoven, Lassie, Rin Tin Tin, Benji, Milo, Toto, among so many others.
Times have changed, however, as have film trends. Fewer are movie or TV projects that cast dogs in lead roles. They have been replaced by zombies and later, by robots, aliens, and other out-of-this-world creations, all of them made of steel.
It is not the same for child stars. Happily, they continue to shine, especially on local TV serials, where they are much in demand. Child stars feed on a predominantly young market that comprises the bulk of our TV audience.
•
NEW SERIES STARS A DOG: It is a relief, therefore, to find a dog the center of attraction in GMA’s new TV series, Sherlock Jr. Serena, a Golden Retriever, plays one of the lead roles in the teleserye that opens on the network on January 29.
She shares top billing with series leads Ruru Madrid and Gabbi Garcia, who together make a fast-growing loveteam in their own right.
Serena is some kind of wonder dog, trained expertly by her owner, Francis Cleofas. On the set, she is loved by all, feels like a pro, always warm, cuddly and friendly.
Gabbi Garcia, a natural pet lover, says Serena is out to touch everyone’s lives and teach them lessons on love, life, family and friendship.
There are some lessons to learn here, she warns. That while love and family are some of life’s greatest joys,
true friendship knows no boundaries between and among humans and animals.
•
INVESTIGATIVE BUT FUN: Sherlock Jr. is described by its creators as an investigative but fun series. Note how the titular role has been inspired by that greatest known sleuth in literature and films, Sherlock Holmes.
Ruru, in the title role, is a clever investigative reporter who gets a high solving mysteries with the help of his ever loyal dog, Serena.
The series also stars Ai Ai de las Alas, Tonton Gutierrez, Andre Paras, Roi Vinzon, Sharmaine Arnaiz.
Cast in a special guest role is Janine Gutierrez.
Sherlock Jr. premieres January 29 after 24 Oras on GMA Telebabad.
