BEYONDtheBOX

CLICKTHECITY REVIEWS PINK HALO-HALO

2010-07-17T10:45:00.005+08:00

ClickTheCity at the 6th Cinemalaya: Part 2
by Philbert Ortiz Dy
posted on Tuesday, July 13, 2010 in Indie Films

There are no surprises in Joselito Altarejos’ Pink Halo-Halo. In fact, the synopsis on the schedule brochure pretty much gives away the ending. But that’s hardly the point of the film. Here, Altarejos shares with us a recollection of life as a soldier’s son, delivering a lyrical slice of life picture that explores the rhythms of childhood against a backdrop of creeping dread.

Altarejos plays on the dichotomies, the child Natoy living an almost idyllic life in his hometown while endless conflict terrorizes other parts of the country. It points to the striking truth that for most people, news of war and strife almost serves as background noise, the narratives only becoming real as the people they love become subject to tragedy. It’s a terribly sophisticated insight into our country’s precipitous decline into a culture of violence. This isn’t the most explosive film of the festival, but it’s quietly devastating in its own way.

A REVIEW ON PINK HALO-HALO

2010-07-17T10:36:00.004+08:00

Pink Halo-Halo: This boy’s life!
by: Edgar O. Cruz | STIR Editor in Chief
16 Jul 2010 | 11:03 AM

Joselito “Jay” Altarejos’ Pink Halo-Halo is the real liberated indie film at the Sixth Cinemalaya Independent Film Festival. With the compelling theme of Liberating indie film, the filmfest is currently rolling and I got to watch three full-length features: Magkakapatid, Pink Halo-Halo and Sampaguita, National Flower in that order. Looking for the new indie film, I find nothing out-of-the-box with Kim Garcia and Francis Pasion’s movies. But it is Pink Halo-Halo that tries and succeeds in getting out of the indie film mold told in a gay boy’s fondness for halo-halo.

Pink Halo-Halo is independenly produced with filmmaker Altarejos as producer, writer and director. A gay film, a genre which Altarejos has been specializing almost exclusively and doing a good job at elevating the genre and perceptions about gay men, it is without a single naked man and titillating sequence. It is about Natoy confronting his sexuality as a normal boy and his developing sexuality. It does this by showing scenes such cutting a piece of paper into dolls, learning how to apply makeup, fingering a beauty product catalogue – all told as motions, no dialogue.

Subject is dark alright: the death of the boy’s soldier father in Mindanao. But it does not beat corruption, injustice, poverty, exploitation, politics – the range of subjects most dear to indie films – to a pulp. It stays a simple story of a mother and a boy coping with a soldier’s life. It is without drama, just a bunch of people going through the motions of what life brings like going to the wake of dead comrades. Or fixing the motorcycle which seems the only luxury in this soldier’s life.

It is in Tigaonon, the dialect of Ticao Island off Masbate, all throughout and uses the townpeople as actors. Lead actor is Paolo Constantino as Natoy who does not have acting background and was not drilled on the craft before shoot. Proffesional actors Allen Dizon, Dexter Doria, and Angeli Bayani do the adult parts. This is in the tradition of Vitorio De Sica’s Italian Neo-Realist films which works very well for the movie’s purpose and intent.

For once, an indie film touches on the nobility of the human spirit in time of tragedy as very well told in the dialogue-less ending sequence with the townspeople meeting the dead soldier’s casket at the wharf. It is without histrionics, just the resignations there’s no escape in the tragedy. It is even without mood shots with nature very much incorporated into the scene.
***Also published in The Daily Tribune.

PINK HALO-HALO: Cinemalaya 2010

2010-07-03T20:19:00.006+08:00

Please support my Cinemalaya entry Pink Halo-Halo at the Cultural Center of the Philippines from July 10-18.

THE TRAILER:

INFO SHEET:

See you there!!!

ANG LARO NG BUHAY NI JUAN DIRECTOR'S CUT DVD

2009-12-18T15:33:00.006+08:00

Merry Christmas, everyone.

Our film, Ang Laro ng Buhay ni Juan, which had a four-week theatrical run in selected theaters will be finally out in dvd starting next week, December 21 at your favorite video shops.

The film stars Ray an Dulay, Angeli Bayani, Richard Quan, Perry Escano, Nico Antonio, May-i Fabros, Ace Ricafort, Ivy Sumilang, Tony Lapena and Mark fabillar.

DVD cover designed by: Mark Xander Fabillar

Again, we would like to share some reviews that the film received.
The Bakla Review:
http://thebaklareview.blogspot.com/2009/10/ang-laro-ng-buhay-ni-juan.html

"Co-written by Bonife, Altarejós, and Peping Salonga, Laro is subtler, but also richer, fresher, more intelligent, if also a little cooler/colder. It's a film that pulsates with the discovery of the moment. Ang Lihim ni Antonio is its closest forebear, both marked by naturally flowing existentialism, but this is probably the first time the direction and the writing complemented so effortlessly. "

Edgar Cruz, The Daily Tribune/Stir.ph:
http://www.stir.ph/LM/articles~level2/id-1256004053156_4/ai-null/Joselito_Altarejos_reality_game.html

"Altarejós attacks the scenes as dispassionately as possible. There are scenes which he could have exploited, but he cuts as soon as he establishes the scene’s purpose — the mark of a mature helmer... He proves in this movie that he's an indie filmmaker in the real sense of the term. He pushes the director's work to the extreme like what German poet Rainier Maria Rilke said is necessary to come up with a master work... Ang Lalake Sa Parola was my favorite Altarejós movie; Ang Laro ng Buhay ni Juan changed this!"

Loud Cloud:
http://verbosecity.blogspot.com/2009/10/biscuits-and-heartbreaks.html

"Adept direction and a subtle script brought out the indisputable talent of Dulay into prominence. Whereas in the past Dulay’s acting aptitude glimmers but get eclipsed (because of the minority of his roles) Ang Laro ng Buhay ni Juan is his opportunity and he convinces us that you'll watch this movie not because of raging erections but because of hard-won talent. Even the minor casts approach their characters with precision and humanity they seem not to regurgitate a script but tossing out lines like spontaneous snippet of their daily dialogues."

Rito Asilo, Philippine Daily Inquirer:
http://services.inquirer.net/mobile/09/10/24/html_output/xmlhtml/20091024-231999-xml.html

"Jay (Altarejos) weaves a clear and briskly paced tale. He puts his storytelling dexterity and visual flair to good use as he subtly shifts from one social commentary to another. However, the needlessly protracted dance sequence could have used some trimming."

CINEMA, Catholic Bishops Conference of the Philippines:
http://cbcpcinema.blogspot.com/2009/10/ang-laro-ng-buhay-ni-juan.html

"Payak kung maituturing ang kuwento ng pelikula na sinundan lamang ang isang araw sa buhay ng isang taong nais magbagong-buhay. Ngunit ang kapayakang ito ang nagpahatid at naglahad ng epektibong kuwento ng mga taong ang buhay ay nakatago sa dilim. Kitang-kita ang pagkakaiba ng buhay ni Juan sa araw at gabi. Isang tipikal na kuwento ng mga taong nasadlak sa kahirapan at may hanapbuhay na hindi nila kayang ipagmalaki. Maganda at totoong-totoo ang eksenang ipinakita sa pelikula. Malinaw ang pagkakalahad ng kuwento na hitik sa simbolismo. Mahuhusay din ang mga nagsiganap na bagama't mga hindi kilala at hindi malalaking pangalan sa industriya ay nagawang magampanan ang kanilang papel nang makatotohanan. Maganda ang direksiyon ng pelikula sa kabuuan dahil na rin sa naging matapat ito sa mga katotohanan ng lipunan na bihira na lang mapansin ng karamihan."

Snakey's Confession:
http://snakeysconfessions.blogspot.com/?zx=db068daa3099773c

"I am not a film critic but merely an avid fan but what disturbs me was that I did not just watch the film, but I was taken from my seat at the moviehouse and transported to where a lot of dreamers had been finding themselves in time and again, and what my past could have been; by sharing with me a treasured glimpse of the LARO NG BUHAY NI JUAN."

The video is distributed by Universal Records. BEYONDtheBOX would like to thank Ms. Elinor Castro, Mr. Peter Chan and Ms. Kathleen Go of Universal Records.

Please, grab a copy. Salamat.

ANG LARO NG BUHAY NI JUAN: EXTENDED THEATRICAL RUN

2009-11-05T11:01:00.007+08:00

Our small film, Ang Laro ng Buhay ni Juan, is on its 3rd week at Robinsons Galleria. And it will open at three other theaters on November 11: Isetann Recto, Gotesco Grand Central Caloocan and Remar in Cubao.

Maraming salamat sa patuloy na nanunuod at sa magagandang reviews na natanggap ng pelikula.

The Bakla Review:

"Co-written by Bonife, Altarejós, and Peping Salonga, Laro is subtler, but also richer, fresher, more intelligent, if also a little cooler/colder. It's a film that pulsates with the discovery of the moment. Ang Lihim ni Antonio is its closest forebear, both marked by naturally flowing existentialism, but this is probably the first time the direction and the writing complemented so effortlessly. "

Edgar Cruz, The Daily Tribune:

"Altarejós attacks the scenes as dispassionately as possible. There are scenes which he could have exploited, but he cuts as soon as he establishes the scene’s purpose — the mark of a mature helmer... He proves in this movie that he's an indie filmmaker in the real sense of the term. He pushes the director's work to the extreme like what German poet Rainier Maria Rilke said is necessary to come up with a master work... Ang Lalake Sa Parola was my favorite Altarejós movie; Ang Laro ng Buhay ni Juan changed this!"

Loud Cloud:

"Adept direction and a subtle script brought out the indisputable talent of Dulay into prominence. Whereas in the past Dulay’s acting aptitude glimmers but get eclipsed (because of the minority of his roles) Ang Laro ng Buhay ni Juan is his opportunity and he convinces us that you'll watch this movie not because of raging erections but because of hard-won talent. Even the minor casts approach their characters with precision and humanity they seem not to regurgitate a script but tossing out lines like spontaneous snippet of their daily dialogues."

Rito Asilo, Philippine Daily Inquirer:

"Jay (Altarejos) weaves a clear and briskly paced tale. He puts his storytelling dexterity and visual flair to good use as he subtly shifts from one social commentary to another. However, the needlessly protracted dance sequence could have used some trimming."

CINEMA, Catholic Bishops Conference of the Philippines:

"Payak kung maituturing ang kuwento ng pelikula na sinundan lamang ang isang araw sa buhay ng isang taong nais magbagong-buhay. Ngunit ang kapayakang ito ang nagpahatid at naglahad ng epektibong kuwento ng mga taong ang buhay ay nakatago sa dilim. Kitang-kita ang pagkakaiba ng buhay ni Juan sa araw at gabi. Isang tipikal na kuwento ng mga taong nasadlak sa kahirapan at may hanapbuhay na hindi nila kayang ipagmalaki. Maganda at totoong-totoo ang eksenang ipinakita sa pelikula. Malinaw ang pagkakalahad ng kuwento na hitik sa simbolismo. Mahuhusay din ang mga nagsiganap na bagama't mga hindi kilala at hindi malalaking pangalan sa industriya ay nagawang magampanan ang kanilang papel nang makatotohanan. Maganda ang direksiyon ng pelikula sa kabuuan dahil na rin sa naging matapat ito sa mga katotohanan ng lipunan na bihira na lang mapansin ng karamihan."

Snakey's Confession:

"I am not a film critic but merely an avid fan but what disturbs me was that I did not just watch the film, but I was taken from my seat at the moviehouse and transported to where a lot of dreamers had been finding themselves in time and again, and what my past could have been; by sharing with me a treasured glimpse of the LARO NG BUHAY NI JUAN."

Salamat po, uli.

2009-10-26T09:59:00.001+08:00

Sunday, October 25, 2009

Ang Laro Ng Buhay Ni Juan

Tony Lopena, Rayan Dulay, Ace Ricafort

The tandem of director Joselito Altarejos and screenwriter Lex Bonife birthed four gay-themed movies for major studio Viva, under its digital arm, starting with 2007's Ang Lalake Sa Parola. With their fifth collaboration, Ang Laro Ng Buhay Ni Juan, the duo make their first "truly independent" film, outside Viva, with Altarejos wearing the producer's hat for BeyondtheBox Productions. With this move, the bigger financial rewards might finally go to the deserving artists, who were anyway responsible for the brand of movie-making that spawned a following. The better news is that the departure seems to have freed them artistically, as well.

The mode is "real time" -- that increasingly fashionable style of storytelling that isolates time and place, an economy of approach well-suited to third world budgets. We follow Juan (Rayan Dulay) during his last hours in Manila, before he permanently leaves for his home province of Masbate. The film is structured in two parts. The first half is daytime, when Juan navigates the slums of his neighborhood, mingling with an assortment of characters, before settling in a tiny room to say goodbye to his lover (Nico Antonio) -- a tender moment that aches so well because we learn so much about the two of them with so little. It's also a positive representation of a same-sex relationship built on mutual love.

Fans might find my next statement blasphemous, but I've always thought that, in the Altarejos-Bonife partnership, the writing was usually the weaker link. Well, so much for that now. Gone are the fussy expositions and purple dialogue that mar their sometimes overly earnest melodramas. Co-written by Bonife, Altarejos, and Peping Salonga, Laro is subtler, but also richer, fresher, more intelligent, if also a little cooler/colder. It's a film that pulsates with the discovery of the moment. Ang Lihim Ni Antonio is its closest forebear, both with naturally flowing existentialism, but this is probably the first time the direction and the writing complemented so effortlessly.

I wonder, however, if the film would have benefited from a more intense lead actor. Real time seems to require a galvanizing, center-of-the-universe presence, the way Gina Pareño held Kubrador, or to a lesser extent, Coco Martin in Kinatay. Dulay is pleasant and effective, but I kind of wish he put more gas to his fire.

The second half is night, as Juan works for one last time as a live sex performer in a gay club, to make extra money for his trip. Here, we meet the kind ringmaster (played by Bonife), a newbie member being oriented, and the rest of the performers, including Juan's cocky partner (Ace Ricafort). The excitement builds up to the actual erotic show, with naked bodies, but the real culmination is... (SPOILER ALERT!) a police raid. What is it that happens to Juan in his last day in Manila? In the answer lies the film's powerful statement.

What the two parts illustrate, before we're even aware of it, is the transfer of money. In Juan's poor community, everyone needs it. But when people part with their cash -- to gamble, to lend to a friend, a lover, someone in need -- it always stems from free choice. What Juan chooses to do with his money is his right and his freedom. We get the spirit of people looking out for one another: It's there when a neighbor shares her plate of noodles, or when the club manager passes a hat and guests drop their generous tokens. By stark contrast, in the final act, when police officers snuff Juan of the contents of his wallet, it's a gross abuse of authority, a trampling of Juan's freedom and dignity. He was robbed of so much more than money. That, according to the film, is the great tragedy of this country. It's what corruption looks like on a micro level, but it extends and affects all of us. No coincidence, then, that our hero is called Juan, the name of the everyman.

Laro is the second excellent film this year to indict the illegal, inhumane practice of police raids. (Big Night was the other one.) The topic demands attention, and both films are must-sees. That Laro drives the important point with quiet grace is amazing.

GRADE: A-

Loud Cloud: Biscuits And Heartbreaks

2009-10-25T21:47:00.004+08:00

October 24, 2009

http://verbosecity.blogspot.com/2009/10/biscuits-and-heartbreaks.html

Compassion is one elevated form of human sentiments. It is transcendent in the sense that you step out of selfishness and supplant your emotions into rooting for the welfare of another person. This may not be the core thesis of Ang Laro Ng Buhay Ni Juan but for some accidental reasons it just did that: this unusually poignant film makes you discover your hidden well of empathy and you surface from the screening astonished, startled and stirred.

Altarejos + Bonife along with Peping Salonga are back in vigorous form. With the recent head-scratching turn in Little Boy Big Boy they seem to have taken a momentary breath and here decided to resume making significant films utilizing their key strengths—that is penning well-thought out narrative, sincere dialogues and sexually provocative propositions. Although the central sex scenes in ALNBNJ are still charged (and even then it makes you wonder how much graphic footage got snipped by the charming folks at MTRCB) they seem to have taken a backseat to make the story, the acting and deft direction rule.

ALNBNJ is a far-reaching, affecting chronicle. It reels in the viewer into following the pivotal day in the life of its protagonist Juan aka Erwin (Ray An Dulay), a live (gay)sex performer who is making a crucial decision in his life: to leave the daily grind of seedy carnal routine in favor of beckonings of a sick mother and a simple provincial life.

Like thousands of other similar stories out there Juan arrived in the city in search of better things and months and months of struggle found him committing man to man action in an underground sleazy bar. Though he appears neither apologetic nor resentful of his fate, he is also not happy of his squandered potential—only the fading, laminated diploma hanging precariously on the dilapidated wall of his ramshackled pigeonhole of a room reminds him of once a promise of a decent life. Typical story for those who have seen scads of equally-sleazy indie movies lately but what made the story entirely his own is his quiet dignity: he never moans, complains or bitches about his ill fate; he forge on the daily struggle with courage and determined detachment.

He is not alone in this foul existence and he is very aware of it: There’s the scene where a destitute neighbor borrowed thirty pesos to buy a scoop of rice only to get bumped by a running street urchin sending every grain on the pavement and getting soaked by the murky canal water. She didn’t erupt into a wild melodramatic sob; she just tried to scoop what she can possibly retrieve, desperately trying to salvage every precious grain. In the catastrophic bar scene (you struggle to neutralize a lump in your throat as) you witness scattered, broken biscuits intended for homecoming present being picked one by one from the floor. It kills you. It breaks your heart. It makes you forget you went into the theater in the hope of looking at raging hard-on of the cast, only to be won over by shimmering raw talents who are in complete command of the role they inhabit.

Adept direction and a subtle script brought out the indisputable talent of Dulay into prominence. Whereas in the past Dulay’s acting aptitude glimmers but get eclipsed (because of the minority of his roles). ALNBNJ is his opportunity and he convinces us that you'll watch this movie not because of raging erections but because of hard-won talent. Even the minor casts approach their characters with precision and humanity they seem not to regurgitate a script but tossing out lines like it is a spontaneous snippet of their daily dialogues.

Somewhere in the course of the film I wondered: Is it just me or the movie has an intriguing argument to make? The case being: Living in squalid condition, striving to live on, finding your way through brutalities of life are discouraging but not reasons to stop caring. Flashes of kindnesses are randomly injected to make this claim tangible: a sympathetic bar owner (essayed with candid, comic glee by Bonife himself: “Kayong mga gays, bisexual, straight curious, straight tripper o ano man ang tawag ninyo sa sarili ninyo isa lang ang ipinunta natin dito: Burat!” Classic.), a benevolent police member of the NBI raid squad, a neighbor who would willingly split her meager meal all seem like rare likelihoods but one cannot deny their uncommon existence either.

Another interesting aspect is the underlying, semi-subversive stand essayed in the movie: by putting an accent on the brand of people and forces that prey on the haplessness, desperation, misfortune and plain bad luck of individuals who are careworn and plainly, vainly trying as damned hard to claim a right to live for at least another day.

All throughout these tormenting moments ALNBNJ keeps itself in check: it is careful not to slide into sensationalism or petty melodrama. It never attempts to mine shallow sympathies on the plight and adverse conditions of its characters. It doesn’t rhapsodize the sexual scenes instead use them as natural progressions of the story. Thankfully Altarejos, Bonife and Salonga didn’t rehearse the rampant, cheap indie formula of “I Am So Desperate So I Am A Hooker” route but instead moulds its characters with willpower and fortitude. In so doing the movie and characters make our empathy spontaneous and potent.

ALSBNJ is honest and despite the pitiable moments is strangely kindhearted, with acute understanding of a struggling soul’s tendencies and motivations. It tells a touching, well-crafted story and treats the widely familiar plot/flawed characters with delicate respect and legitimate deference. It openly tells a blunt story that will resonate with anyone who at one point in his life was driven to misery and anguish and how the viciousness and cruelty of other people (and life in general) will squeeze out that last remaining ounce of hope in you until you are rendered beaten, cynical and emotionally empty.

This is where I applaud and commend Altarejos + Bonife + Salonga. Ang Laro Ng Buhay Ni Juan is like a bittersweet, hand-written love letter designed to wound you. And it does wound you. It rouses your humanity into sudden wakefulness.

:::::::::::::::::::::::::::

Ang Laro Ng Buhay Ni Juan is currently screening at Robinsons Mall Cinemas (Galleria/Manila. Please check other theater listings). Do support this worthwhile indie movie as a way of encouraging more neat materials to come to life and hit the screens!

Posted by loudcloud at 12:38 AM

NOW SHOWING: Heady romantic summers, broken dreams in provocative dramas

2009-10-25T21:32:00.005+08:00

By Rito Asilo
Philippine Daily Inquirer
First Posted 07:02:00 10/24/2009

Missed opportunities

In Joselito “Jay” Altarejos’ latest gender-bending drama, “Ang Laro ng Buhay ni Juan,” destiny also delivers low blows to the dreams and big-city aspirations of 25-year-old Juan Reyes aka Erwin (Ray An Dulay). After three years of odd jobs and missed opportunities, the protagonist’s misadventures in the metropolis have left him barely hanging by a thread.

In gritty cinéma vérité fashion, the film follows Erwin on the day before he leaves the cruel urban jungle for good. He’s convinced there’s a better future waiting for him in his otherwise impoverished hometown in Masbate. Unsurprisingly, the fateful day turns out to be an emotional roller-coaster ride for Erwin as he exchanges pleasantries with his neighbors, then bids his lover, Noel, goodbye.

It’s also Erwin’s last day at Inner Sanctum, the seedy underground gay bar where he works as a live-sex performer. However, after his final show—and just as he’s about to leave the club—something happens that weakens his resolve to turn a new leaf.

Altarejos’ latest gay-themed scorcher tackles risqué subject matter with sensitivity and uncompromising vision—but, like “Lalaki sa Parola” and “Lihim ni Antonio,” it is not for everyone. Fortunately, “Laro” is a notch above the well-meaning but ultimately unsuccessful “Little Man, Big Man” or the thematically featherweight “Kambyo.”

For the most part, Dulay does well as Juan/Erwin, but holds back in some highly charged dramatic moments that require more urgency and commitment from him. The other notable portrayal is turned in by Richard Quan, who plays the sympathetic undercover agent in the finale’s good cop-bad cop scenario.

Commentary

Jay weaves a clear and briskly paced tale. He puts his storytelling dexterity and visual flair to good use as he subtly shifts from one social commentary to another. However, the needlessly protracted dance sequence could have used some trimming.

Moreover, the provocative scenes he conjures up onscreen won’t sit well with conservative viewers, but they do come with a cautionary message—and a warning: Scenes that depict violence or graphic sex are never a pretty sight.

Great Review on Juan

2009-10-22T23:25:00.002+08:00

Joselito Altarejos’ reality game
by: Edgar O. Cruz | STIR Editor In Chief
20 Oct 2009 | 10:02 AM

Ray an Dulay & Nico Antonio in the goodbye scene

Ang laro ng buhay ni juanAce Ricafort’s frontal nudity is a featured moment in Joselito Altarejos’ “Ang Laro ng Buhay ni Juan,” screening exclusively at Robinson’s Cinemas (Galleria and Manila) starting tomorrow, Oct. 21.

Ace is the daring newbie who plays the in-demand sex worker Badong, one of the live sex show performers called the Tupada Boys at the Inner Sanctum gay bar. His attention-grabbing portion, however, does not steal from the raw depiction of marginalized Pinoys living on the edge, like Tupada Boy Juan (Ray An Dulay) alias Erwin, Jr., and Jason according to the sex worker’s code of assuming several identities.

“Ang Laro ng Buhay ni Juan” is Altarejos’ first foray into the real time mode of filmmaking. After the surrealism of “Ang Lalake Sa Parola,” the shock of “Ang Lihim ni Antonio,” the peek into discreet gay life in “Kambyo” and “Little Boy, Big Boy,” Altarejos turns full circle to stir the styles of past films in another interpretation of the secret life of bisexuals in Armando “Bing” Lao’s real time as interpreted in the script of Lex Bonife and Peping Salonga and produced by Altarejos’ own BEYONDtheBOX film production company.

“Ang Laro ng Buhay ni Juan” explores two hours in the life of Juan in the big city, who is forced to go back to his hometown Masbate. Juan takes us into his “hole-in-the-wall” shelter in the backstreets of high-rises to meet marginalized Pinoys breaking the survival code with character types like unwed mother Mercy (Angeli Bayani, 2008 Cinemanila’s Asian Best Actress) and his endo lover Noel (Nico Antonio of “Minsan Pa” and “Kubrador” cast, who returns to the big screen after joining Star Magic as a VOIZboys crew).

The film asks whether man’s destiny is presented or self-made. Juan decides to go back to the province to be with his sick mother and not return as he is living a wasted life. He wants to leave so he breaks his decision to Noel. But a raid mars his last show when police take his money and rubbers earned from selling his body so he will not be arrested. As he cannot return to his mother, he is left with the option to return to Noel.

Contrasts play an important part in this film. The day part explores the discreet gay life of Juan and Noel that ends in a no-fuss teary farewell scene. The night part exposes what discreet gays working as sex workers do. Daytime photography is bathed in glaring sun, while nighttime is candlelit as if to hide its dark secrets. The city’s rotting; its survivors may live under miserable circumstances but where they work, there’s a chandelier and a grand staircase — glam witnesses of their glum lives.

Ray An and Nico interpret their characters in contrasting style.

Ray An is almost mechanical, under-acting, while Nico is emotional, playing it to hilt for maximum effect in the separation scene. This is a very touching interaction between men who love one another and are not compelled to flaunt it except to themselves. The masculine Nico appears in half-naked and kisses Ray An on the lips. This is clearly his best performance in a full-length feature to date, short but driven to the point. Many may be turned off by Ray An’s performance, but it is true to character.

Altarejos attacks the scenes as dispassionately as possible. There are scenes which he could have exploited, but he cuts as soon as he establishes the scene’s purpose — the mark of a mature helmer. This is perhaps the reason the MTRCB gave it an R-18 classification despite the masturbation, blow job, frontal nudity and strong language. He proves in this movie he’s an indie filmmaker in the real sense of the term. He pushes the director work to the extreme like what German poet Rainier Maria Rilke said is necessary to come up with a master work.

Suggesting fate is the work of a whimsical if random higher being in his game with humans as his objects, “Ang Laro ng Buhay ni Juan” poses the idea that male-to-male sex workers are discreet gays. In local gay films, they are usually depicted as straight guys who feed on gay fantasies, but as Altarejos boldly suggests otherwise in this film. This fresh interpretation is that they are homosexuals having a late awakening, recognition, and/or acceptance. They like what they are doing. If not, why do they stick to the job? This is a reinforcement of the film’s original idea of humans as playthings.

But there’s something that’s uniform in this movie. Mercedes picks up the rice thrown off her hands by a rushing body; Noel picks up the mixed cookies from a can that spilled when inspected by a raider. He had intended it as pasalubong. It seems this is the code of feeding to the marginalized. It’s not even hand-to-mouth existence, but what you may call as floor-to-mouth subsistence. This is where Altarejos excels — having a good understanding of material and a fearless attitude to tell it. “Ang Lalake Sa Parola” was my favorite Altarejos movie; “Ang Laro ng Buhay ni Juan” changed this!

A Negrense writes about Juan

2009-10-22T23:09:00.005+08:00

Ang LARO NG BUHAY NI JUAN
Louis Archie Dreyfus

Today at 8:48pm Facebook Note

Sometimes a movie comes and reminds us that for a film to be memorable, it should not be important that the actors be excessively good looking and that the plot be filled with twists and turns and complexity as what most audience expect. There are times that all it needs is a touch of realism and the feeling that one is not watching but rather experiencing what is showing onscreen. That is what makes LARO NG BUHAY NI JUAN tick!

For two hours, I was taken back to the slums of Manila where I myself was able to live a few years back. One could almost feel the glaring heat of daylight; could almost smell the decaying scent of a mixture of countless odors; could hear the mingled noises in front of the unending sound of traffic in Edsa. All these images projected to the watcher with the subliminal signals that the director, Jay Altarejos, whether purposely or not signals the viewer on what to watch out for!

The simple style of the opening credits did not impress me at first, until i realized that its simplicity gave the audience the needed ticket to be in the story. Ray-an Dulay's acting was superb in its reality with nuances that gave him credibility. The word PSYCHO in front of the parked jeepney paralleled my observation on the craziness of what was transpiring in front of me; the word PRIVATE at the back of another jeep prepares you for the private/intimate life of who Juan really was. And the almost manic grabbing of Edwin's hair by his lover (Nico Antonio) as if it would somehow get him to stay breaks your heart much like the irony of the spilled rice bought from borrowed "trenta" when free rice is being given out by a would be politician.

In comparison to the blinding light of the day scenes come the dark shadows of the night scenes. Here we feel the tension of the streets, the secrets that lurks in corners and the secrets we all would want to keep. Yes, there are full frontal nudity, but they are much needed to show each viewer that they are but voyeurs in the life of Juan.

I give kudos to direk Jay, for sharing with us a vision that otherwise we tend to forget. I refuse to declare if this is his best work considering that there are certainly more to come and that this is his first foray with a realtime feature but then this work has already a place in my own collection.

I am not a film critic but merely an avid fan but what disturbs me was that I did not just watch the film, but I was taken from my seat at the moviehouse and transported to where a lot of dreamers had been finding themselves in time and again, and what my past could have been; by sharing with me a treasured glimpse of the LARO NG BUHAY NI JUAN.

Antonio Reviewed in the US

2009-10-17T15:49:00.008+08:00

A Review of Ang Lihim ni Antonio
by Caron Knauer
Read&Watch Section
INS&OUTS Magazine Long Island Cityn NY

One of Antonio’s secrets is revealed early on in this memorable film. Antonio, played by the beautiful actor Kenji Garcia, is a normal fifteen-year-old. The objects of his affection are boys, and his explorations, discoveries, and conquests are vividly and—for the most part—subtly shown. The film deals with its themes head-on, and it’s not afraid to go right up to the edge, (spoiler alert) and go over it in its brutal portrayal of an incestuous rape that leads to murder.
Hector Conange, director of Cinemarosa, Queens’ only queer film series, presented the film to a full house at the Jackson Heights Public Library as part of its kick-off event for June Pride Month. Antonio’s Secret (Ang Lihim ni Antonio) was written by Lex Bonife (in Tagalog; there are English subtitles) and directed by Joselito Altarejos.

Antonio (nicknamed Tong) lives with his mother in Manila. His father’s job has taken him out of town. After a night of drinking, Tong falls asleep next to his friend Nathan, whose sleeping body he explores with his hands. The scene leads to consensual kissing and groping. It’s provocative, yet innocent; a rite of passage that’s rife with confusion and guilt.
Tong’s attraction to men intensifies when his hunky 25-year-old bisexual uncle Jonbert (Josh Ivan Morales) comes for a long visit, moving into Tong’s bedroom. Tong stares longingly at his uncle’s buff body. Jonbert, a hedonistic ne’er-do-well, enjoys Tong’s attention, and allows his nephew to pleasure him several times. But Jonbert soon grows bored of the blowjobs, and rapes Tong. The graphic scene goes on for much too long: We could have used fewer minutes of Tong’s screaming. Tong’s mother, Tere, in a vivid performance by Shamaine Buencamino, walks in, witnesses the abuse, and in a rage, stabs Jonbert to death.

The montage of mother-and-son still shots, which follow the murder, is oddly moving, and the image of Tong washing the blood off his mother’s hands is a soothing antidote to the shocking climax. The acting is compelling, and despite erratic pacing, uneven editing, and some wobbly camerawork, Altarejos is a director to watch. Antonio’s Secret is affecting, disturbing, and worth a glimpse. Available on Netflix.com.

By CARON KNAUER

ANG LARO NG BUHAY NI JUAN TRAILER

2009-10-06T19:12:00.002+08:00

ANG LARO NG BUHAY NI JUAN opens on October 21, 2009 in Robinsons Cinemas.

SI JUAN AT ANG MAYNILA

2009-09-25T09:31:00.003+08:00

Si JUAN, tingin sa buhay ay isang laro. Tumaya siya ng tatlong taon sa Maynila. Ngayon, dinala siya ng "laro" niya sa isang underground bar at isa na siyang live-sex performer. Oras na ba para aminin niyang natalo siya sa laro ng buhay?-

ANG LARO NG BUHAY NI JUAN - Showing on Oct. 21, Robonsons Cinemas

ANG LARO NG BUHAY NI JUAN

2009-09-12T20:47:00.003+08:00

A film by JOSELITO ALTAREJOS

A BEYONDtheBOX Production

Ang Laro ng Buhay ni Juan explores two hours in the life of Juan Reyes, known to others as Erwin. Juan is a 25 year old Masbate native who just found his way to Manila three years ago. Erwin has tried his hand at many odd jobs and now works as a live-sex performer at an underground gay bar but has decided to leave Manila for good.

On the day of his departure, he will take us with him as he makes life decisions—big and small. The most important one of all is leaving the impoverished place which he called home for a year, capping it with his emotional goodbyes with his lover, Noel. And, how a raid by the authorities marred his last performance in an underground bar called Inner Sanctum which changed his resolve.

The film shows how "ordinary Juan" distracts himself from the nagging problems of survival in order to continue playing the game called life.

ANG LARO NG BUHAY NI JUAN is the first film produced by BEYONDtheBOX.

PRODUCTION CREDITS:

Cast

RAY AN DULAY

ANGELI BAYANI

NICO ANTONIO

RICHARD QUAN

PERRY ESCANO

ACE RICAFORT

MARK XANDER FABILLAR

MICHAEL CAYETANO

MAY-I FABROS

ANNELLE DURANO

DEXTER PELAGIO

TONY LOPENA

Director JOSELITO ALTAREJOS

Story & Screenplay PEPING SALONGA, LEX BONIFE , JOSELITO ALTAREJOS

Executive Producer MARKK PERETE

Producers CORA DEL CASTILLO, JASON ALMENDRAS, DEXTER PELAGIO

Associate Producer ARLENE PILAPIL

Director of Photography PAO SANTIAGO PANGAN

Editing SHERWIN PESCASIO

Music & Sound

Production Design LESTER JACINTO

BIOGRAPHY/FILMOGRAPHY OF THE FILMMAKER:

JOSELITO ALTAREJOS is a television and film director.

He is also the Creative Director of BEYONDtheBOX, a group of media practitioners, which was formed in 2003. The group produces TV Commercials, Audio Visual Presentations and gives TV Production Workshops.

Altarejos’ digital films before ANG LARO NG BUHAY NI JUAN are: Ang Lalake sa Parola, Ang Lihim ni Antonio, Kambyo & Little Boy Big Boy.

ANG LALAKE SA PAROLA, a film about search for oneself, was both critical and commercial success. It was Graded B by the Philippine Cinema Evaluation Board which called it “a thinking film.” Parola also earned a nomintaion for Justin de Leon in the Best Supporting Actor Category in the 2008 Golden Screen Awards while Jeng Torres and Pot Manda were nominated in the Best Production Design Category in FAP’s Luna Awards.

His other film, ANG LIHIM NI ANTONIO, a cautionary coming-of-age tale gone tragic, is still considered the highest grossing digital film shown in Robinsons Cinemas. ANTONIO has been invited to different festivals abroad like the IMAGEOUT & CINEMAROSA both in New YorkWhen it had the European Premiere in Torino GLBT Film Festival, it was hailed, together with Areus Solito’s Boy, as the new wave of Philippine gay cinema.

ANTONIO earned for its lead actor KENJIE GARCIA nominations as Breakthrough Performance by an Actor, Golden Screen Awards and Best New Movie Actor in Star Awards this year. While SHAMAINE BUENCAMINO was also nominted in the same award-giving body in the Best Supporting Category.

FILMMAKER'S STATEMENT:

The wonderful thing about life is our freedom to make a choice. But what happens if circumstances prevent us from making our choices into reality? ANG LARO NG BUHAY NI JUAN poses the question: “Nakasalalay ba sa ating mga kamay ang ating kapalaran?”

Small dreams, big dreams

2009-08-14T22:58:00.002+08:00

Written by Ricky T. Gallardo / All Access

Tuesday, 11 August 2009 19:22

EVEN if maverick independent filmmaker Jay Altarejos has been concentrating on gay-themed movies for the past three years or so, he feels he is ready to get out of his comfort zones soon.

“Not that I have reached a saturation point in delving into gay subjects in my films because, frankly, there are still a lot of issues in the gay world that have to be explored,” he tells us, without sounding a bit defensive.

He adds, “It’s just that people, especially those involved in this industry, almost always like to put others in a box, you know, typecast them. And I would like to think that I can spread my wings, give life to other equally interesting subjects on the big screen.”

He is quickly to clarify: “But I love gay-themed movies. It’s something I know by heart since this is my universe, and that’s why I’m not turning my back completely in making these kinds of movies.”

Ang Lalake sa Parola and Ang Lihim ni Antonio are two of the most celebrated works of Altarejos. Not only did these films enjoy glowing reviews but also Altarejos’s niche target market supported these films when they were shown in commercial cinemas.

His latest work is titled Little Boy, Big Boy. Although the story is not as complicated as his previous ones, and therefore not as challenging to mount, Altarejos was able to clearly present the complexities and realities of a modern same-sex relationship.

Monogamy, loyalty, cyber sex, group sex and casual sex are the topics that Altarejos presents, without necessarily telling his audience which side to take and defend. He was also able to draw competent performances from the two lead actors, Paolo Rivero and Douglas Robinson. Renz Valerio, who plays the young house visitor of the gay couple, also has his share of charming moments.

“I do not really have grand ambitions to become a National Artist for Film,” shares Altarejos, alluding to the ongoing National Artist controversy. “I only want to tell stories, whether these be about gay people or straight people. If I can move or touch the sensibilities and emotions of my audience, then I think I have succeeded in my own little way.”

“I admit that someday, I also want to be rewarded and recognized for my work, but that’s just icing on the cake and perhaps a massage on my artistic ego a bit, but that’s not my goal at the moment,” he ends, breaking into a big smile.

MY THOUGHTS ON MY FILMS

2009-08-14T22:51:00.002+08:00

Joselito Altarejos beyond the box

By Edgar O. Cruz, Contributor

08/11/2009

The Daily Tribune

Little Boy/Big Boy is the new adult drama full-length feature by director Joselito Altarejos, starring Paolo Rivero, Douglas Robinson and Renz Michael Valerio. Joselito is a television and film director and the creative director of BEYONDtheBOX, a group of media practitioners who banded together in 2003 to produce television commercials, audio visual presentations and give TV production workshops.

With Lex Bonife writing the script, Little Boy/Big Boy is their fourth collaboration after the controversial hit gay films Ang Lalake sa Parola, Ang Lihim ni Antonio and Kambyo. A co-production of Digital Viva and BEYONDtheBOX Productions, Little Boy/Big Boy contains a number of sensitive scenes, heart-warming moments and insights on gay/straight relationships. It opened last Aug. 5.

Ang Lalaki sa Parola is frequently mentioned as one of the best Filipino-made gay-themed films of this decade. The director hasn’t thought much about this, but he does not expect it to become an all-time classic nor for it to go beyond the gay-theme classification.

"Well, I haven’t really thought of Parola along that line because reactions to it are varied. Some liked it, and others did not. Older women liked it. I think, on one level, I want it to go beyond the gay-theme classification because I’ve always really seen my films as just a means of telling a story, explosive or not," Altarejos explains.

He says people have different stories, gay or straight. Nobody ever refers to mainstream romance films as "straight" films. In this sense, he wants it to go beyond the gay-theme classification. He doesn’t necessarily expect it to become an all-time classic, but did what he could to foster better understanding of gays.

Myth-busting

Ang Lalaki sa Parola, Altarejos’ first gay film, is about searching for oneself. The director believes that in life, myth often clouds reality. Through the film he tries to say that stories are often made to mask certain things in homosexual lives. But Joselito does the exact opposite. He explains, "I shot all the love scenes in full lighting because I just wanted to bring it out in the open. Issues concerning gays — gay sex, and things of that nature — are often clouded with myth. So that film was my answer to that."

Ang Lalaki sa Parola was both a critical and commercial success. It was Graded B by the Philippine Cinema Evaluation Board, which called it "a thinking film." This flick also earned a nomination for Justin de Leon in the Best Supporting Actor Category in the 2008 Golden Screen Awards, while Jeng Torres and Pot Manda were nominated in the Best Production Design Category in Film Academy of the Philippines’ Luna Awards.

Ang Lihim ni Antonio, a cautionary, coming-of-age tale gone tragic, was Altarejos’ way of saying that abuse is unacceptable at all levels. "Many young gay men are abused in this country and people think it’s okay. Victims often stay mum because they feel that they probably won’t lose anything anyway because they are male. See, this is where it gets tricky because abuse sometimes feels good. But that does not make it right. Abuse is abuse and the doer must be ready to face the consequences of his or her actions. Some did not like the ending, but that was my way of saying that something so tremendously dark and tragic will attract something tremendously dark and tragic as well," he says.

Ang Lihim ni Antonio, is still considered the highest grossing digital film shown in Robinsons Cinemas. Invited to different festivals abroad like the Imageout and Cinemarosa both in New York, it had a European Premiere in the Torino GLBT Film Festival. Together with Auaraeus Solito’s Boy, it was hailed as the new wave of Philippine gay cinema.

Ang Lihim ni Antonio earned for its lead actor Kenjie Garcia nominations for Breakthrough Performance by an Actor at Golden Screen Awards and Best New Movie Actor in Star Awards this year. Shamaine Buencamino was also nominated in the same award-giving body in the Best Supporting Category.

Kambyo, on the other hand, showed the different faces of homosexuality — young, gay and happy. It is about the randomness of this journey we call life and all the whims and wonders it has to offer.

A realist window

Little Boy/Big Boy is Joselito’s way of showing normalcy in homosexuality. It’s funny because the need to make a gay film that has mainstream feel to it kept haunting him. The unfamiliarity was attractive to him. The issues gays and lesbians face are the same as everybody else’s. So he wanted to shoot a straightforward, mainstream, somewhat light movie with a realistic feel, which is unfamiliar to most moviegoers. That conservative side, that mystery, is becoming more and more attractive today.

Little Boy/Big Boy tells the tale of the carefree soul of a freelance graphic artist, Raymund (Paolo), and how he is filled with doubt as he is suddenly confronted with the responsibility to look after his seven-year-old nephew, Zack (Renz).

While taking care of his nephew, he meets a closeted young man named Tim (Douglas), and the two fall in love. He educates his new lover about the importance of accepting oneself, especially at a time when prejudice against gays is still accepted as the norm. The film also tackles opposing views on fidelity in the homosexual set-up. It shows a gay man’s capacity to nurture, and how the homosexual is not just an organism for pleasure, but also a catalyst for unconditional love.

Little Boy/Big Boy is a realist window on the lives of many young Filipino gay men today — how they’ve come a long way, and how they’re slowly getting there.

There are now filmmakers who specialize in doing gay-themed films, some of them exploitative. Joselito has no claim, having started this trend. He says, "There were many gay films long before I even did Ang Lalake sa Parola. All it really did was create noise around gay films, and when it got a B from the Cinema Evaluation Board, it certainly shed light that gay-themed films can be quality films."

On the issue of exploitation, Joselito thinks it’s subjective. He explains, "When you make a film, all you really worry about is how to make it work. And after making it, you tend to talk your way out of it. You see your output, and you’re concerned again. So it never really strikes me whether these actors are being daring or not. The moment they’ve read the script and accepted, they knew what they were getting into."

As a filmmaker, where is Joselito headed? Is he going beyond the box?

He answers, "I always do. I don’t like to repeat myself. I think it is clear that with Little Boy/Big Boy, there will be a change in my films. Some journalists have generously attributed this to maturity. Because although all my films express similar ideas, I think they express these ideas in different ways. I like challenging the viewing audience. I like challenging the establishments involved in the films I make. I have created a process in doing digital films. One that is efficient, practical and effective. I hope one day we all find maturity, and that’s why I keep on trying."

Joselito tells different stories in his films. A friend once asked him, after seeing Little Boy/Big Boy, "Why did you go against your template?" He replied, "I did it because I want people to view gay films not just as gay films, but films. Period."

INQUIRER'S RITO ASILO SAYS...

2009-08-08T10:15:00.003+08:00

Unlikely romantic duos offer insights
By Rito Asilo
Philippine Daily Inquirer
First Posted 22:35:00 08/07/2009

Filed Under: relationships and dating, Cinema, Entertainment (general)

"MANILA, Philippines—Love defies age, position or gender, and no one can demonstrate this better than the unlikely romantic duos of Anne Fletcher’s “The Proposal” and Joselito Altarejos’ “Little Boy, Big Boy.”

In his sexually provocative but insightful “pink” dramas (“Ang Lalaki sa Parola,” “Lihim ni Antonio”), Altarejos has proven that there’s more to his films than risqué themes. His latest effort goes beyond sexual provocation—which can only go so far. It examines the dynamic that exists in same-sex relationships, raising kids and how gay men operate in a world dictated by the stultifying standards of morality, religion and tradition."

To read the entire review, click here.

Most ‘wholesome’ film to date

2009-08-04T17:46:00.005+08:00

By: Mario E. Bautista
Freehand
People's Journal
August 04, 2009 05:45 PM Tuesday

Manila Bulletin

August 12, 2009, 12:18pm

WE'VE seen a lot of gay themed films about teen boys and their first loves ("Maximo Oliveros", "Dose")oppressed masseurs ("Masahista", "Heavenly Touch"), etc. but "Little Boy, Big Boy" is very different from past gay flicks, even from the previous films of its director, Jay Altarejos, known for such pink films as "Lalaki sa Parola", "Antonio" and "Kambyo". Comparatively speaking, this is his most "wholesome" films to date. It's a love story about two yuppies (a graphic artist and a bank employee) who just happen to be both boys. So boy meets boy, boy gets boy, boy loses boy, but there's a hint of reconciliation in the final frame. Told within their story is the puppy love between a little boy and a little girl that is also charmingly developed.

The central characters are Raymond (Paolo Rivero) and Tim (Douglas Robinson). They meet in a gay orgy hosted by Lex Bonife (also the film's scriptwriter) and Raymond takes Tim home. It so happens that Raymond's sister, a single mom, is going to Hong Kong to meet a new boyfriend and leaves him her son, Zach (Renz Valerio). Raymond is very open to Zach about his being gay and the boy accepts it matter of factly, even the sight of his uncle sleeping in bed with Tim.

Zach quickly warms up to Tim, a very caring person who cooks spaghetti for him and teaches him how to play basketball. Since he grew up without a dad, Zach considers Raymond and Tim as his two fathers. He meets a neighbor, Jill (Sophia Baars), who invites him to her birthday party. They become friends and Zach later claims Jill to be his girlfriend, to which she agrees.

But like most gay relationships, the one of Raymond and Tim is soon rocked by jealousy. Tim wants an exclusive relationship but Raymond can't help but flirt with other gays on the net and on his cellphone. Tim says he has lost his trust and decides to leave Raymond. Meantime, Zach's mom returns and it's also time for him to leave Jill. Raymond is left alone once again in his apartment. He asks forgiveness from Tim through the internet and it seems like Tim has a favorable response.

The movie is different from most gay flicks as it changes the usual portrayal of gays on screen as swishy faggots. The gay men here are both straight acting, the kind who are buff and called macho gays. Paolo Rivero is the busiest actor today in gay flicks. His performance here is better than in any of his past ones like "Daybreak" and "Heavenly Touch" (where he's an out and out gay). He's complimented by Douglas Robinson as the more sensitive Tim with his very expressive pair of eyes, even if his Visayan accent often gets on the way of his delivering a more effective portrayal. Gay viewers won't be disappointed as they're featured in two hot love scenes.

But the most splendid performance actually comes from Renz Valerio as the little boy who really looks so pure and innocent, a primary requirement of the role that he superbly fulfills, despite the fact that he has a slutty mom who flirts from one boyfriend to another. He's a natural in all his scenes. Sophia Baars, Ruffa Gutierrez's precocious daughter in "Desperadas 1 and 2", also does well as Jill. "Little Boy, Big Boy" opens in Robinsons Galleria, Ermita, Bacolod, Iloilo and Cinema Cebu tomorrow, August 5.

LITTLE BOY BIG BOY SHOWTIME!!!

2009-08-02T20:46:00.003+08:00

My latest baby will be shown on the following theaters starting August 5, Wednesday:
Robinsons Galleria, Robinsons Ermita, Robinsons Bacolod and Cinema Theater in Cebu.

Please support Little Boy Big Boy.

BLOGGERS REVIEW LITTLE BOY BIG BOY

2009-08-02T20:22:00.011+08:00

8.18.2009

Same Consumption, More Cuddle

Green Shirt Pink Shirt

"For me, Little Boy Big Boy is at the same boat with most of our mainstream romantic comedies with lesser decorousness. Indie films now start to use the romantic formula with a slight implication of societal function. Little Boy Big Boy could be the first to do this in its flock. To make a better comparison; if You Changed My Life made my body calories shrink into mottled skittles, and Dinig Sana Kita confined me in silence in the Himalayan Mountain, Little Boy Big Boy made me a tadpole. I could hop in all the vacant seats with every sweet gesture. It is really my mistake that I could not react so well in kilig types of films. But I could feel that my reaction in contrast could be better for people who prefer to watch this harmless entertainment.

Still in the same account with the cult film Ang Lalake sa Parola (The Man in the Lighthouse), the film has explored social acceptance and admittance. It is a must in order to achieve the desired happiness -- so they say. It could be a little pushy for some, lest the solution is still in the uncharted Limbo of human dignity. But the film is cool just like the two Apple computers owned by Raymond that I wouldn’t mind having. Seriously, the film could still improve with its cinematography and even camera works. If you wish not be offended with glorified nudity, it has little of it anyway, this could be a quick look of nearly there state maturity of love between the two guys – still a lot to improve upon. The story is intentionally on the lighter approach and the Zach boy is cuddly and endearing to an extent. And they should really thank Zach for that matter. It’s also hard to judge as we also have our own imperfections and crosses to carry in our lives. Hopefully, we carry it with grace and with dignity. At most, we carry it out of love."

Charlie Koon's Rating:

To read the entire review click here.

Little Boy Big Boy
Pinoy Gay Guy Confidential
Friday, July 31, 2009

"I usually get the chance to watch indie films on video. I had an opportunity for an invite for the premiere of the new film by the creative team that brought Ang Lihim ni Antonio and Ang Lalake sa Parola to the public. This invite was courtesy of Lex Bonife himself through his blog. Thank you Lex for this unique experience!

The movie is Little Boy, Big Boy. It revolves around the character, Raymund (played by Paolo Rivero), as he deals with his nephew, Zack (played by Renz Valerio) and a new partner, Tim (played by Douglas Robinson). In their pursuit for happiness, each individual finds each other and in the short time together, gains appreciation of what they have. It is a simple thoughtful film that despite it being gay-centered, each viewer may take from it something to think about - be it about family, love, acceptance or respect.

The production itself has improved especially the sound. In many scenes, it helped bring the emotion being presented but there were a few scenes where it was too loud that it overpowers the visuals. The orgy scene was a little too long and parts were unnecessary to the story. The plot was straightforward and allows the audience to relate with the use of Facebook as part of how they deliver the story. The actors were effective in their roles as they brought to life the characters they portray. Rivero is not new to acting and he performs well, allowing the audience to feel what his character is feeling and carrying the movie through the ups and downs of being a gay man. Valerio, does a good job particularly towards the end of the movie but at the start, it only felt like he was merely playing along withe scenes. A revelation is Robinson who showed a variety of emotions throughout the film and is able to relay it to the audience. Truthfully, it is the first time I have heard and seen him on film or TV. I may have been able to watch him then, but he makes an impact here in this movie. Using his natural accent allowed his acting to be more realistic.

Was it a simple story? Yes, but the simplicity is what made it make an impact because we were not sidetracked by unnecessary backstory or twists. Were they able to impart a message? Yes. Even the little conversations about being out or accepting what we cannot change give the bigger picture color. Is it worth watching? Definitely. Production-wise, one would feel that every one in the production had their heart into their work. Story, simple but solid. It is in high definition. Beat that.

My favorite line: "Thank you for making me stay in your house." Why? I am going through something difficult, which I can relate to what transpired in the film sans the character of the nephew. The night before the screening, I had a similar scene happening in my own house. My favorite scene: The shot at Timezone where the camera zooms out to include the typical family playing at the back. Why? For me it delivers the message that what constitutes a family is no longer just the typical father, mother and children and that it may include the set up of the characters in the film. "

To read the entire blog, click here.

The Altarejos/Bonife Experience
The Crazy Life of TL
Friday, July 31, 2009

"It was a feel-good movie. A light story that actually has a lot of sense in different perspectives. What I liked about the film was that, the movie did not promise anything big in the beginning. So it ended up according to your expectation without regret. It was a realistic story that evolved in a normal gay set-up in terms of relationships, meet-ups, sex and involving people around you. And that I mean of the little boy in the cast.

I really thought that the little boy was the kid of Paolo Rivero in the movie, that's why it attracted a single dad like me. That was my impression in the trailer. But I was wrong when I watched it. The boy just entered in to his life when his girl friend left for hongkong to meet up a guy and left her son to him for a few weeks. That is where the story began. The life of a big boy with a little boy.

I like the honesty of the story. It teaches you that homosexuality is not a lie. It is not something that you should hide, that you should not be ashamed of. It is something to be told, to anyone, especially to the innocent ones. I like how Paolo explained this to the kid. Not controversial and not vulgar. How lovely it was to see how easy for a little boy to accept the gay truth compare to adults nowadays. How I imagine a world so easy for PLUs when acceptance is just like that.

It was an eye-opener for me also seeing an orgy session in the film, which I was told that in real situations of sexual adventures, that's how it is being done. I never experienced that and I barely meet people who does activities such as that. It never turned out to be a lustful or titillating scene as they have injected humor during the session thru a payatot and a fat guy doing comic scenes. I swear, that really made me laugh.

For a romantic TL, the best part of the movie, and yes, I have to admit the "kilig experience", were the cheesy scenes of the film. Yes, they have. And what impressed me was that, it was done artistically. They used regular lines, small acting, but nice set-up and scoring which made it look so real and what really happens in real life. That I think is the part where a lot of PLUs have related themselves to the movie. It did not turn out to be a trying hard scene.

That is what I like in the movie. It captures you. It makes you think. It makes you realize things. It allows you to participate emotionally and mentally. It gives you a big screen of your own lines, and somehow, a scene of your own life. I will not deny the fact that there were scenes I wished the scoring was not that loud, and I can also say it was not a heavy movie as Antonio and Parola. But the LB/BB movie is a good treat for everyone.
I am assuming that the movie was shot in the house of the director. I remember seeing it in his partner's blogsite. But anyways, another assumption I'd like to make is that, how the movie was executed by the director is a reflection of how he is in his life in terms of relationship. The way scenes were captured comes from deep experience in love. That's why it translated in a realistic manner.

I was touched how the director thanked his partner (Mark Xander) as part of the success of this movie making before the film started during his speech. Sweet! And the translation of a continous strong partnership of the director and the writer translates sensible films in their list. Looking forward to the next film they announced during the premiere. Another one to watch.

Let us support this one good movie especially made for us PLUs. And have another Altarejos/Bonife experience..."

To read the entire blog, click here.

The Big Boy that was Almost the Little Boy
Miong 21
Friday, July 31, 2009

"Just saw "Little Boy/Big Boy" on its special premiere last night at the Robinson's Galleria with the whole cast (the child actor was not allowed to watch it of course) and crew including the director Jay Alterejos and screenwriter Lex Bonife (who provided me 2 premiere tickets for the movie, thanks Lex! Loved your cameo appearance!).

That was the first time I saw Lex in person, second for Mr. Altarejos. Mr. Danton Remoto was also there to introduce Direk Jay. The movie was great, in my own opinion. I don't have any background or experience in film directing or production but I can say the film was a great improvement from past films (Parola, Lihim & Kambyo) in terms of cinematography, sound, musical score & most especially and importantly the acting. Not that those previous films lacks in any of those categories.

I like the fact that in some scenes, Robinson's character "Tim" acts like a baby brother (or lover) to Rivero's character. I find it very cute 'cos I sometimes act up like that to June, LOLz! We have our own little ways of making pa-cute to our own boyfriends and I am one guilty person on that!

I was holding my June's hands throughout the film (like any other films we've seen, gay or mainstream) and I kept on pressing on him hard every time there's a touchy scene. Oops! No spoilers, it's a good movie you'll have to watch it. I like the way they ended the story, different and very uplifting from any Pinoy gay-themed film I've seen.

It's a touchy movie. And I love the cheesy moments on the film especially the "Ano, tayo na ba?" part. There were a couple of lines (and scenes) who were as if derived from my very own experience and I guess every Pinoy gay guy on the planet had felt and experienced such. I can relate to the two male lead characters, Raymond (played by Paolo Rivero) and Tim (played by Douglas Robinson). Been on the same boat one way or the other. The monogamity in a relationship, faithfulness and trust to each other. I have never had an open relationship. I understand some people are fine with it but I'm not.

I must say it's getting better and better every time! I am so proud of the entire Pinoy gay indie film industry! Kudos!"

To read the entire blog, click here.

BONDING TIME

2009-07-31T11:44:00.003+08:00

Had a successful invitational premiere screening of LITTLE BOY BIG BOY last night in Galleria. Generally, the reactions are favorable, albeit, surprised to it being 'tame' compared to my other films.

Early this morning, I bonded with the 'kids.'

Antonio & I walked and ran around the village.

antonio after the walk

When we got home, It was Miming's turn.

beautiful miming

I let her nibble on my fingers.

playing time

Then, Antonio demanded attention again.

antonio demands attention

I never had pets in my life, until, seven months ago. My friends were surprised when they found out that I am living with a labrador, a cat, a bird and two hamsters.

millie

But, it's never too late to be an animal lover, right?
Thank you, Marky, for helping me discover the gentleness and love that animals can offer.

ARTICLES ON LITTLE BOY BIG BOY: UPDATED

2009-07-26T14:33:00.006+08:00

Little Boy Big Boy will premiere on August 5

Mell Navarro

Philippine Entertainment Portal

Sunday, August 2, 2009
06:31 PM

(From left) Paolo Rivero, Renz Valerio, and Douglas Robinson star in Little Boy/Big Boy.

After a year of absence, Joselito "Jay" Altarejos returns to the indie scene with his new film, Little Boy/Big Boy, which tackles a gay man's love, passion and search for happiness.

Direk Jay was behind the films Ang Lihim ni Antonio and Ang Lalake sa Parola.

This new gay indie film stars Douglas Robinson in his most sensitive performance; Paolo Rivero, today's hottest indie actor; and child actor Renz Valerio, produced by Digital VIVA and Beyond The Box Productions.

Direk Jay wrote in his personal blog: "I think Little Boy/Big Boy is the most relatable of all the digital films I've done. The story might have happened to anyone—gay or otherwise. A very simple film that subtly creeps and appeals to one's emotions.

"Surprisingly, Douglas Robinson, as Tim, gave a very sincere and felt portrayal of a lover who thought he was betrayed by his partner Raymond, played by Paolo Rivero.

"All I can say is, it is well photographed. Renz Valerio has emerged as the 'biggest boy' among the three lead characters in the said film. Renz plays Zach, Paolo's nephew, whose appearance in Paolo's life has changed the latter's lifestyle.

"Renz, a mainstay of Batang Bibbo in GMA-7 and who was Robin Padilla's son in Joaquin Bordado, amazed me and the rest of the staff while working for this film," narrates Direk Jay.

Little Boy/Big Boy will have its regular run starting this Wednesday, August 5, at Robinsons Galleria in Ortigas, Robinsons Place in Malate, and Robinsons Sta. Lucia in Marikina.

************************************************************************

Joselito Altarejos’ new wave gay movies
by: Edgar O. Cruz | STIR Editor (Chief Agitator)
24 Jul 2009 | 09:57 AM

The tandem of director Joselito Altarejos and screenwriter Lex Bonife created the new wave of adult gay-drama full-length feature in Philippine cinema with Ang Lalake sa Parola, Ang Lihim ni Antonio and Kambyo. These films are realist windows on the lives of young Filipino gay men, how they’ve come a long way, and how they’re slowly getting there. They portray gay life like it is: gays as normal people in their sexual preference. These films stay erotic in parts but non-exploitative and they have sympathetic understanding of the gay lifestyle.

Little Boy/Big Boy, their fourth collaboration, has lots of sensitive scenes, heart-warming moments and insights on gay/straight relationships. Another new wave co-production of Digital Viva and BEYONDtheBOX Productions, it stars Paolo Rivero, Douglas Robinson and Renz Michael Valerio to open 5 August.

Little Boy/Big Boy tells the tale of the carefree soul of a freelance graphic artist, Raymund (Paolo), and how he is filled with doubt as he is suddenly confronted with the responsibility to look after his seven-year-old nephew, Zack (Renz).

While taking care of his nephew, he meets a closeted young man named Tim (Douglas), and the two fall in love. He educates his new lover about the importance of accepting oneself, especially at a time when prejudice against gays is still accepted as the norm. The film also tackles opposing views on fidelity in the homosexual set-up. And it shows a gay man’s capacity to nurture; and how the homosexual is not just an organism for pleasure, but also a catalyst for unconditional love.

Joselito is a television & film director and the Creative Director of BEYONDtheBOX, a group of media practitioners, which was formed in2003. The group produces TV Commercials, Audio Visual Presentations and gives TV Production Workshops. Lex was named by Outrage Magazine as one of the "movers and shakers" of the Filipino gay community.

STAR SIGHTINGS: Little Boy/Big Boy will have an invitational screening on 30 July, Thursday at 7pm, in Cinema 5, Robinsons Galleria.

*************************************************************************************

The unending search for happiness
Updated July 26, 2009 12:00 AM Philippine Star

From left: Paolo Rivero, Renz Valerio, director Joselito Altarejos and Douglas Robinson

MANILA, Philippines - From the creative team that brought us the highest-grossing digital film Ang Lalake sa Parola and critically-acclaimed films Ang Lihim ni Antonio and Kambyo comes a story of one gay’s quest for happiness — Little Boy/Big Boy.

It tells the story of a carefree graphic artist named Raymund and how he is filled with doubt as he is suddenly faced with the responsibility of looking after 17-year-old nephew Zach. But while taking care of Zach, Raymund finds himself in the middle of building a relationship with his new lover Tim where he teaches him the value of acceptance and self-respect.

The gripping indie film, which stars Paolo Rivero as Raymund, Douglas Robinson as Tim, and Renz Valerio as Zach, is directed by Joselito Altarejos with screenplay by Lex Bonife.

The director shares that Little Boy/Big Boy “has turned out to be an adult gay-drama with lots of sensitive scenes, heart-warming moments and insights on relationships — gay or straight.”

It premieres on July 30, 7:30 p.m. at Robinsons Galleria, Robinsons Movieworld Cinema 4, and is presented by Digital VIVA, Beyond the Box and Robinsons Movieworld. Regular screening in select cinemas starts Aug. 5.

**********************************************************************************

Yoga teacher writes another gay movie
by: Edgar O. Cruz | STIR Editor (Chief Agitator)
22 Jul 2009 | 11:10 AM

“Little Boy/Big Boy” is the new adult gay-drama full-length feature by the filmmaker tandem of director Joselito Altarejos and screenwriter Lex Bonife. It stars Paolo Rivero, Douglas Robinson and Renz Michael Valerio as you read first in STIR. Lex is a yoga teacher WHO was named by “Outrage Magazine” as one of the "movers and shakers" of the Filipino gay community.

“Little Boy/Big Boy” is their fourth collaboration after the controversial hit gay films "Ang Lalake sa Parola,” “Ang Lihim ni Antonio" and "Kambyo.” “Little Boy/Big Boy,” a co-production of Digital Viva and BEYONDtheBOX Productions, has lots of sensitive scenes, heart-warming moments and insights on gay/straight relationships to open 5 August.

“Little Boy/Big Boy” will have an invitational screening on 30 July, Thursday at 7pm, in Cinema 5, Robinsons Galleria.

Yoga teacher writes another gay movie

2009-07-24T09:44:00.001+08:00

by: Edgar O. Cruz | STIR Editor (Chief Agitator)
22 Jul 2009 | 11:10 AM

LITTLE BOY BIG BOY SHOWING

2009-07-14T16:27:00.016+08:00

PREMIERE NIGHT:

July 30, Thursday

630 PM Meet & Greet: Cast, Director and the Writer

730 PM: Screening

Cinema 5, Robinsons Galleria

REGULAR RUN:

Starts on August 5, Wednesday

Robinsons Galleria, Ortigas

Robinsons Place, Malate

Robinsons Sta. Lucia, Marikina

TRAILER:

ABOUT THE FILM:

A film by Altarejos

Little Boy Big Boy

Digital Viva presents a BEYONDtheBOX production

A young gay professional, his lover, and his nephew. Three lives sewn together by fate.

Little Boy Big Boy tells the tale of the carefree soul of a freelance graphic artist, Raymund (Paolo Rivero), and how he is filled with doubts as he is suddenly confronted with the responsibility to look after his seven-year-old nephew, Zack (Renz Valerio).

While taking care of his nephew, he meets a closeted young man named Tim (Douglas Robinson), and the two fall in love. He educates his new lover about the importance of accepting oneself, especially at a time when prejudice against gays is still accepted as the norm. The film also tackles opposing views on fidelity in the homosexual set-up. And it shows a gay man’s capacity to nurture; and how the homosexual is not just an organism of pleasure, but also a catalyst for unconditional love.

Under the direction of Joselito Altarejós and the pen of Lex Bonife, Little Boy Big Boy is a realist window on the lives of many young Filipino gay men today. How they’ve come a long way, and how they’re slowly getting there.

It stars Paolo Rivero as Raymund, Douglas Robinson as Tim, and Renz Valerio as Zach.

Digital VIVA

BEYONDtheBOX

Present

JOSELITO ALTAREJOS’

LITTLE BOY/BIG BOY

PAOLO RIVERO, DOUGLAS ROBINSON

and RENZ MICHAEL VALERIO

with SOPHIA BAARRS, RAY AN DULAY, MAY-I FABROS & MARC JACOB

Story & Screenplay LEX BONIFE

Creative Consultant CEL SANTIAGO

Production Design LESTER JACINTO

Editing ONAY SALES

Music & Sound RICHARD GONZALES

Director of Photography ARVIN VIOLA

Associate Producer HERMIE GO

Line Producer MARKK PERETE

Supervising Producers VALERIE S. DEL ROSARIO

JONATHAN LING ALIGADA

Producer VINCENT DEL ROSARIO III

Director JOSELITO ALTAREJOS

DIRECTOR'S NOTE:

“Big Boy” has turned out to be an adult gay-drama with lots of sensitive scenes, heart-warming moments and insights on relationships- gay or straight.

BIOGRAPHY OF THE FILMMAKERS:

- LEX BONIFE is a Filipino screenwriter and a yoga teacher.

Among his works are the controversial hit gay films "Ang Lihim ni Antonio" (Antonio's Secret) and "Ang Lalake sa Parola" (The Man in the Lighthouse). In 2009, he was named by Outrage Magazine as one of the "movers and shakers" of the Filipino "Gay Community"

- JOSELITO ALTAREJOS is a television and film director.

He is also the Creative Director of BEYONDtheBOX, a group of media practitioners, which was formed in 2003. The group produces TV Commercials, Audio Visual Presentations and gives TV Production Workshops.

Altarejos’ other digital films, Ang Lalake sa Parola, Ang Lihim ni Antonio and Kambyo, were all in collaboration with Lex Bonife.

ANG LALAKE SA PAROLA, a film about search for oneself, was both critical and commercial success. It was Graded B by the Philippine Cinema Evaluation Board which called it “a thinking film.” Parola also earned a nomintaion for Justin de Leon in the Best Supporting Actor Category in the 2008 Golden Screen Awards while Jeng Torres and Pot Manda were nominated in the Best Production Design Category in FAP’s Luna Awards.

His other film, ANG LIHIM NI ANTONIO, a cautionary coming-of-age tale gone tragic, is still considered the highest grossing digital film shown in Robinsons Cinemas. ANTONIO has been invited to different festivals abroad like Rochester's IMAGEOUT & Queen's CINEMAROSA both in New York. When it had the European Premiere in Torino GLBT Film Festival, it was hailed, together with Aureus Solito’s Boy, as the new wave of Philippine gay cinema.

ANTONIO earned for its lead actor KENJIE GARCIA nominations in Golden Screen Awards' Breakthrough Performance by an Actor and Best New Movie Actor in Star Awards this year. While SHAMAINE BUENCAMINO was also nominated in the same award-giving body in the Best Supporting ActressCategory.

Existential Thoughts?

2009-07-13T17:31:00.004+08:00

I have always believed in the cliche: Live life to the fullest.

I just take a deep breath and take the plunge.

I choose to experience the extremes if life accords me the opportunity. I don't want to wonder later and ask, what if.

As Nietzsche would put it: (even) a tragedy is an affirmation of life.

RAMDAM ANG KAUNLARAN

2009-07-02T01:06:00.007+08:00

I heard my friend Aya, who lives next door, play BAYAN KO in her violin this morning.

"Ang bayan kong Pilipinas.. Lupain ng ginto't bulaklak.."

I was in the mall yesterday afternoon. I bought school shoes for my niece. Mark also bought a lunch bag for his niece. He decided to send it that day to Dumaguete. While he was transacting inside LBC, I sat on the stairs. I couldn't help but overhear two men talking beside me. They seemed to be working on the construction site in that mall.

Man 1: Magkano pinadala mo?
Man 2: Five hundred. Eto na nga lang ang natira hanggang sa susunod na sweldo.

Man 2 showed the money in his hand. The paper bills totalled TWO HUNDRED NINETY-PESOS.

I almost dropped the plastic bag containing the shoes which cost more than the five hundred pesos that the man sent to his family in the province.

"Bayan ko binihag ka nasadlak sa dusa.."

When I got home this evening, I sadly remembered the song.

"Aking adhika, makita kang sakdal laya.."

Michael Jackson, 50

2009-06-26T15:20:00.004+08:00

with conflicting thoughts, i mourn your death.

i bid goodbye to my youth.

but the music lives on.

i am listening.

LITTLE BOY BIG BOY TRAILER

2009-06-20T11:22:00.007+08:00

Just finished the final cut of LITTLE BOY BIG BOY trailer. I hope you like it.

I would also like to share with you an article about my new film written by
IAN CASOCOT ROSALES, Palanca-winning writer.

See you all in July.

Outing my father

2009-06-20T01:30:00.004+08:00

By Cristina P. Agatep
Philippine Daily Inquirer
First Posted 21:06:00 06/19/2009

http://showbizandstyle.inquirer.net/lifestyle/lifestyle/view/20090619-211452/Outing-my-father

MANILA, Philippines –
My father and I were extremely close. Sometimes, even my high school classmates would express envy at our closeness. I would tell my dad everything, and I was more close to him than my mother.

No one would have guessed that he is gay. He works for an IT company as a consultant for foreign transactions and though it is not as “macho” as say, a position in the military or in an architectural or engineering firm, his work reflects himself—highly organized, quick to respond to changes and find solution to problems.

For prom he drove me to the salon and gave me money to choose a dress. He showed support by trusting my date; he was quite open-minded in my choice of boyfriends. He was never strict; he was like a “kabarkada.” He would even sit down with me and mom watching chick flicks.

But I noticed he was not physically expressive toward my mother. He never held her hand, and his kisses were limited to her cheeks. Perhaps it comes with age, I told myself.

He was a gym buff. After work he would spend probably two hours at the gym, sometimes longer. We would always eat dinner late, because mother insisted on having dinner together all the time. My older brother hated it, because we would have school the next day and we prioritized getting a good night’s sleep. So, poor mother would wait until my dad was home for dinner. He would be normally late: sometimes he would stay overnight at work for “business transactions.”

I discovered his real identity when I used his computer without his knowledge. As soon as I went online using my father’s e-mail account, a “hi baby” popped in instant message. My stomach felt a knot as soon as I saw who he was. The avatar on the instant message was a foreigner. And that foreigner was a man.

I signed off immediately and felt confused. Was he cheating on my mother?

And was this whole guy avatar thing just a mere shady way of masking the true identity of this person trying to ruin my family?

It was a bizarre feeling that while I could tell him everything, I could not dare bring up what I had discovered.

I felt betrayed , hurt and angry. How dare he do this to my mother, the perfect wife!

I can’t remember how it all started, but months before graduation in high school, my mother had a serious talk with me. Since I was moving out for university, she said it was important for me to know something before I leave.

Her voice was firm.

“Your father is different…” she said. “He’s gay. Never lose your love to your father. He is always that way. But I love him nonetheless. I have understood his urges to meet up with men sometimes, but I am fine with that. ”

No amount of words can describe how shocked I was.

That was several years ago. Now, despite my discovery about my father’s sexuality, I maintain my respect for him. Years ago maybe I would have crazily mess my life up. But I see no reason to do so now.

I admire his courage, and his dedication to our family. Now that I have a child of my own, he is every bit a loving “lolo” to my baby. And my love has never changed.

BIG BOY POSTER TWICE X-ED!!!

2009-06-08T23:07:00.005+08:00

The MTRCB, our industry's moral compass, has finally approved the 3rd study of the poster for my new film Little Boy Big Boy.

Study 3: Approved!!!

These studies were not found deem for general patronage as they
"depict graphic homosexual love."

Study 1: X!!!

Study 2: X!!!

I totally agree with them. A half-naked man lying on top of another half-naked man is graphic. These images connote homosexuality. And homosexuality is immoral.

Because it is so hard to explain to minors that there is this thing called homosexuality, and that two people of the same gender can fall in love. Because it is easier to explain to children why people kill and throw fists at each other. And it is far more entertaining to watch the handicapped (read: pilay, bulag, etc. ), aesthetically challenged (read: bungal, kalbo, etc.) and the racially different (read: negro, bombay, etc.) made fun of on national television.

Yes, I agree with them. We are living in the dark ages. Homosexuality has not been invented yet.

SHOOT FOR GMA 7's Dear Friend

2009-05-20T10:26:00.005+08:00

NEWS: In AGB’s Mega Manila survey last Sunday, director Joselito Altarejos’ “Dear Heart” episode hit an impressive 14.1% as against the competition’s 9.2%.(as reported by STIR)

Last June 10 to 12, I shot the four-part story of "Madrasta" for GMA 7's Dear Friend. It is a melodrama about a complicated relationship of the stepmother, Gellie (IWA MOTO), and her stepdaughter, Shiela (YASMIEN KURDI). In usual conflicts that figure in such relationship, the husband, Arnold (GARY ESTRADA), is caught in the middle. It is further complicated by the presence of Sheila's scheming boyfriend, Paolo (KEVIN SANTOS- who has the making of a good actor) and Obet (MARCO ALCARAZ), the sympathetic friend of Shiela.

the wedding scene: Gary, Iwa, Yasmien & Marco

It was a fun shoot. Had a good time reconnecting with Gary, a friend from our Viva days, Executive Producer Mona; Associate Producer Lian and Production Designer Jeng.

The four-part story started airing last Sunday, 17 May, until 07 June. The initial response was overwhelmingly high and we hope that it will be sustained in the coming airings.

the boat ride to Capones Island: Marco(texting), Yasmien (in deep thought?) & Kevin (at the back in blue life vest)

play dead or play sick?

the location: Punta de Uian in Pundaquit, Zambales

"Madrasta" is written by Kit Langit under Jun Lana's supervision, the show's Headwriter.Dear Friend airs after SOP in GMA.

BIG BOY UPDATES!!!

2009-05-18T20:16:00.009+08:00

Poster Study #2

I just got the sound and music elements of my latest "baby" Little Boy BIG BOY from the Musical Scorer RICHARD GONZALES. ONAY SALES, the Editor, informed me yesterday that she finished the audio-video lock. MARK is finalizing the poster based on the new photo by FRANK HOEFSMIT and comments from Viva. Video grading and some graphics are the only ones left in the post production process of Little Boy.

The "FAMILY" in Timezone Trinoma

Little Boy , written by the young and brilliant Screenwriter LEX BONIFE,is a tale of finding happiness in every boy within us.

Lester Jacinto(Production Designer), Odie Calayag (Asst. Director) & Lex

I watched the rough edit and was impressed by the work done by Director of Photography ARVIN VIOLA. I think Little Boy is the most relatable of all the digital films I've done. The story might have happened to anyone- gay or otherwise. A very simple film that subtly creeps and appeals to one's emotions. And surprisingly, DOUGLAS ROBINSON, as Tim, gave a very sincere and felt portrayal of a lover who thought he was betrayed by his partner Raymond, PAOLO RIVERO.

The Goodbye Scene

Arvin & I conferring on a shot

I hope the final cut, with music, sound and graphics, will live up to Mark's high expectations. I'll be waiting for you in theaters in late June 2009.

The Clan : Paolo, me, Renz, Mark & Dougs

COMING SOON!!!

2009-05-02T01:53:00.003+08:00

I am editing my latest digital feature "little boy BIG BOY" and Mark has just finished the study of the poster.

Be the judge...

The film will have a special screening in Robinsons Galleria last week of May and will hit the theaters in June.

Little Boy, Renz Valerio, is a Big Boy

2009-04-14T09:46:00.010+08:00

I just finished shooting my latest digital feature "LITTLE BOY, BIG BOY." I will start editing this week. Thus, my feeling of uncertainty and insecurity after shooting each film has been with me for the past week. All I can say is, it is well photographed and Renz Valerio has emerged as the "biggest boy" among the three lead characters in the said film. The other boys" in the cast are Paolo Rivero and Douglas Robinson. Renz plays Zach, Paolo's nephew, whose appearance in Paolo's life has changed the latter's lifestyle.

Renz is ready for his close-up.

Renz with his two"daddies" waiting for the take in Timezone Trinoma.

Renz shot by DOP, Arvin Viola.

Renz, who is a mainstay of Batang Bibbo in GMA and who was Robin Padilla's son in Joaquin Bordado, amazed me and the rest of the staff while working for this film. Young as he is, I observed his dedication and commitment towards his craft. Kudos to his parents who silently worked with him practicing his lines and guiding him before each scene.

Paolo and Douglas in the "goodby scene."

"BIG BOY" has turned out to be an adult gay film with lots of sensitive scenes and heart-warming moments enough for Lex Bonife, the writer, to quip that the film is "a sex-drama na pang buong pamilya."

Paolo and Douglas in one of the sensitive scenes.

* More about the shoot in my next blogs.

STAR AWARDS NOMINATES ANTONIO ACTORS

2009-03-27T03:05:00.009+08:00

Shamaine Buencamino and Kenjie Garcia, two of my actors in ANG LIHIM NI ANTONIO, are nominated in the 25th Star Awards for Movies. Kenjie is nominated in the Best New Movie Actor Category along with Julian Duque (Boses), Bojong Fernandez (Ploning), Carlo Guevara (Desperadas 2), Sherwin Ordonez (Kurap) & Prince Stefan (Shake, Rattle & Roll X).

Shamaine, on the other hand, is cited together with Tetchie Agbayani (Yangaw), Tessie Tomas (100), Snooky Serna (Paupahan) & Gloria Romero (Paupahan) in the Best Movie Supporting Actress of the Year Category. It should be noted that all nominees in this category came from digital features.

It is Kenjie's 2nd nomination for the same role. The first is in the 6th Golden Screen Awards (Enpress) for the Breakthrough Performance by an Actor. The other nominees are Cedric Amit (Ploning), Coke Bolipata (Boses), Fritz Arvie Chavez (Dose), Julian Duque (Boses), Bojong Fernandez (Ploning) & Timothy Mabalot (Brutus).

Golden Screen will have its awarding ceremonies on April 30 while Star Awards will be on May 28.

Ang Lihim ni Antonio is a cautionary coming-of-age tale, gone tragic, of Antonio who is coming into terms with homosexuality. Kenjie essayed the role of Antonio while Shamaine was Tere, the mother who witnessed and killed her son's abuser. Lihim's story was a collaboration between me and Alex Bonife who also wrote the screenplay. Lihim is still considered the highest-grossing digital film shown in Robinsons cinemas.

Congrats Kenjie and Shamaine. Salamat at naging bahagi kayo ng aking maliit na pelikula. Sa Enpress at Star Awards, maraming salamat.

Cook Magazine

2009-03-22T22:05:00.011+08:00

Foodies are familiar with COOK Magazine, a glossy and very informative publication about food and cooking. It's editor is Ms. Nancy Lumen.

"How to survive directing a cooking show"

I am featured for this month's issue regarding my stint as the director of

KA-TOQUE in QTV 11. Ka-toque was a cooking show which originally featured five chefs- Darlo, RB, Nino, Jonah and Mitchie. Eventually, RB had to leave the show when she was given her own cooking show, Quickfire. When JL resigned, he was replaced by commercial model-turned-chef Jeremy. I had amusing experiences doing the show. The show aired for three years and had its final episode last December.

the set- my view from the control booth

The Chefs: Darlo, Nino, Mitchie, Jonah, Jeremy

Ka-toque Family

The feature was written by Mr. Edgar Cruz. Sir Edgar is the editor-in-chief of entertainment site STIR ( http://www.stir.ph/?ai=null ). Salamat, po!

Reading the feature reminded me of my Ka-toque family. Miss you, guys!

From Dumaguete to Bantayan Part 2

2009-03-20T22:00:00.037+08:00

Last March 12, Mark and I arrived in Silay. The following day, March 13, we went to Sagay City hoping to catch a boat to Bantayan Island.

Another bus ride...

Silay to Sagay= P 56.00

view from the bus

Upon arrival in Sagay City, we found a place a place to eat owned by the very friendly Weng.

Mother and Child

We devoured her vegetables for lunch. She also negotiated with the tricycle driver to take us to the"pantalan" in old Sagay.

While waiting for the tricycle to leave, we busied ourselves with our cam and capture images as seen from the tricycle...

waiting...

Where money goes.

The Twins

busy people

maximizing resources

"Into thy hands, I commend my child."

bright-eyed boy...

... not for long, though.

The view to the pier.

"I'm here."

"I'm yours."

We found out that the pump boat was scheduled to leave the following day.

We just explored the area.

Museo sang Bata sa Negros

Old Sagay, Sagay City

Negros Oriental

Everybody is welcome...

My Favorite

The following day, we were greeted by the parade as we traced our steps back to Weng's eatery.

The parade...

After a quick breakfast, we were ready to leave.

The sky was blue.

The breeze blew gently.

It was a perfect day to travel by sea.

En route to Bantayan, we passed by Carbin Reef.

A patch of white sandbar in the middle of the sea off the coast of Sagay.

frying my tats under the sun

After the two-hour boat ride, we were greeted by the quaint little town of Bantayan.

Clean...

Beautiful...

I mean, we are. hehehehe.

Where to?

To the ladies in the park...

We took another ride to Sta. Fe.

The beach in Sta. Fe is astonishing.

white sand and a dream beach house

Clean waters...

Once again, like in Apo Island...

we relished every moment...

We had fun...

...and we walked.

Happiness, here and now.

From Dumaguete to Bantayan

2009-03-15T18:06:00.052+08:00

I have been travelling with Mark since Thursday, March 12. We started our road trip in Dumaguete.

Went to the other side of Negros- Silay City. Silay was once called the Paris of the Orient in the 1800's. I had high hopes for the place.

Dreaming of coffee shops in what I thought was a quaint little town , I got somehow disappointed by the "sight and sound" of tricycles.

Yes, the city had it's glory.

One could see old houses and newly renovated century-old establishments.

We walked around.
Visited ancestral houses.

Like the Hofilena's ...

... and the Balay Negrense.

Inspite of it's charm slowly marred by the tricycles...

Silay has retained its laid back character.

And I wonder, is "progress" all worth it?

Next: The trip to Bantayan Island

Antonio's Secret in Europe

2009-03-11T15:38:00.016+08:00

Last March 5, I got an email from a festival in Turin, Italy that partly reads:

"Dear Joselito Altarejos,

We are happy to inform you that "Ang Lihim ni Antonio" has been selected in the 24the edition of the Torino International Gay & Lesbian Film Festival- From Sodom to Hollywood, that will take place from April 23 to 30, 2009."

Here's a little info about the Festival according to its website:

"In 1981, Ottavio Mai and Giovanni Minerba decided to "resist"a kind of cinema that used the homosexual "character" for econdary and/or offensive roles, making their first film on video Dalla vito di Piero. Acclaimed at the Turin Film Festival, the film was invited to many film festivals.

And the idea of the Turin International Gay and Lesbian Film Festival "From Sodom to Hollywood" was born: Mai and Minerba attended many festivals to follow their work and realized that a great amount of important gay films never came to Italy. They started studying an idea of a festival to be presented to the official institutions of Region, Province and the City of Turin: but they were not given an answer for three years. In 1985, the "enlightened " Marziano Marzano was elected in the city council as councilor responsible for Culture and, among many controversies, some of them still existing, the festival, came to life in 1986, with the financial support from Turin Province and Piedmont Region, besides, the artistic and cultural support of many important national and international institutions like Museo Nazionale del Cinema, British Council, Goethe Institut, Colegio de Salamanca, B.F.I., Canadian Embassy, Spanish Culture Office, Centre Culturel Francais.

In the beginning, it was only a film show, but in 1989, it became a real festival, and in 1990 it obtained an official recognition from the Ministry of Tourism and Show.

Among its goals, this Festival has always had not only the need to show new films, but to keep a particularly aware Italian “eye” on the artistic and internationally acclaimed cinema that otherwise would never have a go in our country. A kind of cinema that has always had many difficulties to find a distribution in Italy. Think about the difficult distribution of videos, artistic documentaries and short films.. Attended by “professionals” (film critics and journalists), students and passionate film experts, this Festival has always kept a strong bond with the common filmgoer, offering spectacular moments taken from international realities and giving the new generation the opportunity to discover, through many retrospectives, the fundamental characters of gay films and culture.

This is the peculiarity of this Festival: in fact, comparing it with other international gay film festivals, you will notice that the Turin Gay and Lesbian Film Festival is one of a few in the world to receive a general recognition from the public and the press, newspapers and TV, following the event with increasing interest and support."

This will be the second time that Lihim will be shown to an international audience. The first time was in the Imageout Film Festival in Rochester, New York las October 2008. Lihim was warmly received by the audience.

The Festival Guide had this to say about Antonio:

"Antonio's Secret takes a raw and honest look at the not-so-secret, and sometimes downright depraved, sex life of teenage boys. Director Joselito Altarejos adds a layer of depth by telling a rich story of a confused young man, growing up with few available positive role models, who makes crucial choices and is forced to face their tragic consequences. Using sometimes a woobly, handheld camera without employing much of a musical soundtrack, except for the occasional tunes from the neighborhood musician, Altarejos pulls his audience in and makes it a highly voyeuristic and intimate affair.

Our ImageOut There! Series brings you the type of film that rarely gets made in politically correct Hollywood, and definitely not coming to your neighborhood multiplex anytime soon. Antonio's Secret confronts the taboo topic of incest head on while giving an authentic porttratit of middleclass life in Manila, from the squalor of urban squatters typical of Filipino films with international distribution. Be warned that this film contains nudity, sensitive mature themes, and one graphic scene of violence.

With the advent of digital filmmaking, Philippine Cinema is enjoying a boost from young and edgy filmmakers. ImageOut is proud to provide forum for these undiscovered gems." -- Michael Gamilla

Incidentally, Kenjie Garcia is nominated in the 6th Golden Screen Awards in the Breakthrough Performance by an Actor Category. I am really happy that Kenjie got noticed. I know that he was perfect for the role of Antonio the moment he stepped into the room when he auditioned. I saw something in his eyes. I saw determination and sensitivity. I was right. He and Josh Ivan Morales gelled well with Shamaine Buencamino whose performance shone through the entire film.

"Lihim" not only got good reviews but is considered the highest grossing digital film shown in Robinsons cinemas.

Creamy Dies

2009-03-11T03:53:00.006+08:00

I have been here in Dumaguete since Sunday, March 8. I am here to see Mark again. Last Sunday was the last time I saw Creamy alive.

I only got acquainted with Creamy two months ago. Mark introduced him to me the first time I went to his house. He was sick. He was already blind due to old age.

Monday evening, we found Creamy dead when we went back to have dinner in Mark's house. His children where cleaning him up. I could feel that Mark was devastated. Which he confirmed later when he said, "Allow me to sit down and cry." Creamy had been with him for three years. It was a good and full life for a Russian Dwarf hamster.

Mark told me stories about Creamy. One of which was why he got him from the pet shop. He said, he saw how bad Creamy's living condition was and bought him. Creamy had a partner and soon had children. The few times I saw Mark with his pets: dogs, Millie (the parrot), and his hamsters, I could really see the connection he has with them. He would talk to them, feed them and take care of them.

That Sunday night, Mark grieved Creamy's death. I comforted him the best way I could. And I thought, if he can take care and love creatures like Creamy, then, I can trust this beautiful and sensitive man my life.

Big Boy/Small Boy: My New Film

2009-03-04T19:30:00.007+08:00

Lex Bonife is young and a brilliant writer. I like working with him because he has fresh take on things. He has written all my three digital films and we are collaborating on some projects now.

He just sent me ans SMS that says "I am working on the last 10 sequences." I am excited to read the first draft of our new film "Big Boy/Small Boy".

Here's a note about the project which he posted on his blog: http://lexuality.com :

"I'm currently working on a new script for the new Joselito Altarejos film "Big Boy/Small Boy", a story about a carefree urban gay man who suddenly discovers the joy of playing a father to a little boy.

The intention of this story is to illustrate the capacity of a gay man for "unconditional love", that a gay man is not just an organism of pleasure, but he can also be a source of nurturing and care."

IS GLOBE A SMART IDEA ?

2009-03-04T03:59:00.005+08:00

I have been a subscriber of Globe communications on a post-paid plan basis for almost three years now. Because of my loyalty, sometime in September 2008, I was offered and issued an iPhone unit as part of my benefits as a postpaid 4500 Plan holder. I paid an additional Ten Thousand Pesos (Php10,000.00) for the said iPhone unit.

Shortly thereafter, or starting the first week of October 2008, the iPhone unit issued to me would occasionally hang and its screen would freeze, making it impossible for me to make calls from the same unit. Whenever this occurs, I would have to re-boot the unit by pressing the power button twice, first to turn it off, and second, to turn it on.

On 10 October 2008 while on my way to Baguio for an event, my iPhone unit again malfunctioned in the way described above. By then, however, the unit could no longer be re-booted as it refused to turn off even after I pressed the power button. Because of what happened, I took out my SIM card which I intended to transfer to my Nokia phone unit. When I returned the sim tray it got stuck and eventually got broken.

On 21 October 2008, I visited Globe Center at the Podium Mall in Pasig City to inform them of my problem with my iPhone unit. I was attended to by MARIA GLENISE APOLTO who promised me that she will coordinate with Apple, the manufacturer of iPhone, about my problem. My transaction was recorded as Transaction MMA9788.

For three weeks, I waited for word from Ms. Apolto. On 18 November 2008, I went to the Globe Center located at SM Carpark Cyberzone and talked to KENNETH ARCILLA. Mr. Arcilla told me that they have no after sales service for iPhone and that I should directly transact with Mac/Apple if I want my phone fixed. I was further informed that even Mac/Apple does not offer after sales service for iPhone in the Philippines. I asked Mr. Arcilla to send me a letter or an email officially informing me about the said information or up date me about the problem. I gave him my two email accounts and other contact numbers.

To date, I haven’t received any update on my concerns and I could not use my iPhone for my calls because its SIM card tray remains broken/deformed.

My questions to GLOBE:

1. Why was not I informed that they don’t have after-sales service for iPhone when they offered me the unit?

2. If GLOBE is so proud of their feat as the exclusive distributor of iPhone, why didn’t they make sure that concerns regarding the unit will be addressed here in the Philippines?

3. And why, despite its “efficient “ Customer Service in following up payments, has it not updated me regarding my concerns?

Now, my lawyer is preparing a complaint to DTI hoping that GLOBE will communicate with us and prove that subscribing to GLOBE is a smart idea, after-all.

Idiot Board

2009-03-03T10:27:00.016+08:00

I had an amusing experience in an event I directed recently. One of the guests was a male singer whose name must have been derived from a religous belief. The singer sounded nice but kinda nasal. He wowed the audience. He knew how to play with the crowd. It must have been enough for me to really admire him but I heard a conversation between members of the staff prior to the show which prevented me from appreciating his performance fully.

Apparently, the said singer asked for an idiot board for a song. And I wondered, if one is a singer and paid over a hundred grand for less than an hour of exposure, just four songs at that, can he not memorize a song which the client requested months ago? More baffling is the fact that he has a theater background. Theater people have a certain discipline that they adhere to whatever assignment they have. "Baka raket lang sa kanya?" I heard another ask. The other member of the staff said, to my amusement, "Then, give the idiot, his idiot board."

Well said, indeed.

Exploring Myself thru Baguio

2009-03-02T07:20:00.021+08:00

I am here in Baguio for an event. I always look forward to coming here eversince I lived here in 2002 for a year.

In 2002, I left Manila for what might have been my version of quarter-life crisis. I packed all my things. Made them fit in a Ford Explorer.

Looking back, the vehicle was very apt for that period of my life- Explorer. I explored the unknown and things about myself. For almost a year, I just experienced living without responsibilities other than just live. I spent whatever savings I had. It was my time of existential musing-What am I here for? Where are my roots?

Is it all worth it?

For three months, I was alone. I lived near a mountain and enjoyed the serenity it afforded me. The sky seemed bluer, stars nearer and I could literally be enveloped in fog from 10am to 4pm. After three months, I was jolted from that stupor.

Started mingling and making friends. Walking and finding the beauty of of Baguio unknown to non-residents. Despite it's chilly weather, Baguio gave me warmth.

It offered me new friends. It made me see myself differently. I was called by my name again, Jay. No "direk", no surname. Just plain and simple JAY.

My stint in Baguio might not have given me all the answers to my musing.

But, it made me realize that no matter what, I will survive. That, life will take care of itself. That the answer to the question, "What am I here for?", is just to live- no more no less. Experience the miracle of life to the fullest, not thru the past, not dreaming about the future, but here and now, knowing fully that I am nothing,

but, I am here... now.

Bebe as I Knew Her Then

2009-02-24T15:53:00.026+08:00

Is Bebe a gay man or a transgendered woman?

Kuya Tom, as I knew Bebe from way back, went though a lot before becoming her true self -- Bebe Gandanghari. Coming from a typical Filipino macho family, Bebe felt that she had to do what was expected of her: marry a woman, play it straight, and suck it all in. But anyone who cannot come into terms with his own identity will eventually have a boiling point.

Bebe eventually came out as a gay man on national television. It's funny because we all expected it somehow, and maybe the last person who believed the lie was Bebe herself.

It must've been hard for him. Media lapping it up is not Rustom's fault. His tv appearances are work. It's what he does for a living.

I recently defriended a Facecook friend.

What got my ire was his status, which said: "(Name withheld) is feeling bad that Bebe Gandanghari is getting a lot of airtime. What message are we giving the closeted young gay men?"

To me, it's not the greatest idea to stay in the closet. It is a lonely place and the last person you will be fooling is yourself, really.

It is not Rustom's responbility to help anyone come out of the closet. Coming out is a process that we all go through in different ways. What worked for me may not work for you.

But, I say, The hardest closet to come out of is the self-built closet that we put ourselves in.

Paper Promises

2009-02-23T17:50:00.036+08:00

A familiar voice called me up yesterday. It was the voice of a mother ranting about her daughter.

I have witnessed this scenario many times in the past but this time, the altercation got so bad that her daughter packed up together with her granddaughter and left. It all started with the daughter telling her child that her grandmother is a bad lola because she wouldn't let her play with her cellphone.

The lola shed tears and recited the litanies of her life: "Where have I gone wrong?"

"After everything I have done for her.."

And the undying line: "I can't take this anymore."

After the third litany, I was inches to saying Amen to put an end to it.

I started thinking. Twenty or so years ago, I remember the daughter writing me a letter asking if I could send her some paper dolls. I was here in Manila and she was in Bicol feeling dumped by her mother who left for some reason. The daughter was six. And her mother was in Mindanao, living with her sister, leaving the little girl with another sister of hers in Bicol.

I didn't realize how tough this was on a six year old as her letter would end with: "Wala kasi akong kalaro dito."

June 2004. The daughter now had just given birth out of wedlock and her post natal blues quickly became aggravated by the deeply-rooted resentments towards her mother. A small conversation in the living room would eventually erupt into a confrontation.

Words were tossed around like a tennis ball in a court. Anger trickling. Tears flowing.

It was uncomfortable bearing witness to such an intimate familial confrontation. The mother had an issue with her daughter not "respecting" her. That her daughter would always tell her friends that it was not her who took care of her but her eldest brother. She countered by saying that she had no choice but to leave the country to fend for her family because she was a single parent of five children. The first four from her husband -- who died while serving in the military -- and the youngest from an affair with a married man.

It wasn't so much her mother's going abroad that made her daughter resent her but hers were feelings of abandonment and loneliness. Read: She was only six and felt like she had no choice but to write someone a letter.

The mother refused to comprehend more so, accept it.

To her, she was the perfect mother for going through all the sacrifices the world had to bring. "Yes, you went through all those sacrifices but you cannot take away what she felt. Even though she was only six, her feelings were just as real as yours," is what I told her.

It was like facilitating a workshop.

Then, the voice on the other side of the line pulled me out of my reverie and asked "May trabaho ka ba? Baka nakakaistorbo." I said nonchalantly, "Sige ingat. Bye, Ma."

This makes me think, if only I had sent my sister the paperdolls.

Aloy Adlawan's Padyak

2009-02-22T16:41:00.033+08:00

Padyak is the latest independent feature offering of prolific televison and Palanca-winning film writer Aloy Adlawan. His most recent work is the Valentine's Day hit When I Met U, and his indie features include Roomboy and Signos.

Padyak tells the story of Noel, a pedicab driver, and his daily routine of taking strangers to their destinations. In doing so, he takes glimpses into other people's lives not knowing the personal tragedies that await him. This leads him to existential musing. Does life really matter? And will the world be that much different without a pedicab driver like him?

Padyak stars Jay Aquitania (Roxxxane) and is supported by an able cast ensemble composed of Irma Adlawan, Emilio Garcia, Bodjie Pascua, Macoy Fondales, Angel Jacob, Katherine Luna, Mercedes Cabral, Hazel Ann Mendoza, Sabrina Man, Arnold Reyes and Baron Geisler.

The film will premiere on March 2nd at 7pm in Robinson's Galleria. Regular run is set on March 4th until the tenth in Robinson's Indiesine.

For My M.

2009-02-20T23:51:00.028+08:00

February 14th was a day when everyone was looking for a place to spend Valentine's Day.

I stayed home because a certain someone prepared a simple yet lovely vegan dinner for me..

Someone young, beautiful and intelligent..

He inspires me and has made me look at relationships through a different periscope. One that is much brighter and more colorful; more honest and direct.

We once walked a certain path together and decided to build something. We may be looking at the same direction, but we see things in different perspectives. When one loses focus, the other tugs him and leads him back to the destination.

We love each other dearly and have great conversations. We talk a lot. We make love a lot..

We fight a lot. Then we talk some more, and then we walk together again..

This person I walk with in life is a certain Mark Xander Fabillar..

My vegan prince.

Laugh, Sing, Walk

2009-02-20T11:15:00.018+08:00

I am a true pedestrian at heart.

I just lurv to walk. I walk to and from the gym. I mean, it's a good 30-minute walk and it easily serves as my warm-up and cool down.

From UP Village, my feet take me to the busy streets of the Quezon City Circle, and after a quick turn to North Avenue, I find myself in Edsa -- where the gym is.

I choose to walk for a few good reasons.

First, it's good cardio. The 30 mins. that one spends on a boring treadmill can easily be replaced by an interesting walk. Secondly, I really do save quite a bit on gas and parking fees. That's Php 40 for parking + Php 30 for a liter of gasoline. When you multiply that amount to the number of days I go to the gym in a year, it adds up to Php 16,800 -- an amount good enough to buy me a ticket to any part of Asia. And third, it's just nice to know that my carbon footprint for all my walking hours is zero.

I've been going to the gym religiously for five years now and all my walking this month has helped me attain my ideal weight -- 130 lbs (with 1% fat to lose).

Go figure.

What about skin cancer? I say, SPF 30 is good enough protection for morning sun.

Pollution? I say, millions of Filipinos live in Metro Manila and we breathe the same air.

And besides, when I walk, I see people. People who evoke different reactions from me -- happiness, guilt, envy, anger, sadness, and even love. And then I feel alive.

Life is good.

Pink Halo-Halo

2009-02-18T15:17:00.036+08:00

As I type, my memory takes me back thirty-five years ago -- on a boat with my father heading to Masbate proper.

He was headed back to Mindanao and before he left, I remember the sugar rush of eating the sweetest pink halo-halo ever with him.

I've been mulling about doing this project called Pink Halo-Halo for months now. It is actually my take on the protracted war in Mindanao. The whole thing is an off-shoot of a paper I once wrote for my Creative Writing class in UP four years ago and is the story of a boy waiting for the remains of his father from Mindanao to come home, and how a Filipino family is affected by the war regardless of its distance from Mindanao.

My father was a soldier. He died when I was six. Faces have changed since and members of my family -- including my mother -- now have lines on their faces. The sad thing is we still have this war.

Hundreds of peace talks and peace pacts after, children are still being orphaned and wives widowed. Men become changed forever.

A year after that boat ride I shared with my father heading to Masbate, I once again ate my favorite pink halo-halo. The halo-halo was not the same anymore. The sugar rush was replaced with a bittersweet aftertaste. My father arrived from Mindanao inside a box.

This war must end.

Gay Films and More

2009-02-18T14:47:00.018+08:00

I had a meeting with someone interested in producing a digital film.

He already has a story (and a cast!) and wants it done soon. Fine. I mean, I -- of all people, have no qualms about doing another gay film. But before I sit on my director's seat, I have a few considerations to meet. Is the project going to say something new about being gay? Will it advance the causes that I believe in ? And lastly, is it going to be worth my time and effort? Show me the money.

I choose my projects based on the number of "yes" answers I get. And only if all these questions are answered yes, I will do it.

To be honest, I am still not decided on this particular offer because I am also doing pre-production work on two other digital films at the moment. The first one is about a long-term gay couple dealing with something as debilitating as separation (for Digital Viva) while the other film is about the cycle of poverty that the poor can't seem to escape. This story will be seen through the eyes of a gay sex performer. The latter -- tentatively called Sabong -- will be produced by my production group, BEYONDtheBOX. Sabong, hopefully, will be produced together with the audience who believes in my work (more on how to help this film in my future blogs).

Yes, I will continue to do gay films and I hope that those who appreciated the first three I made will continue to give my work a chance -- gay or not.

Welcome!

2009-02-17T23:44:00.022+08:00

Ever since I started filmmaking in 1999, I have never really taken myself too seriously as a director because I have always felt that as long as you are doing what you are designed to do, you won't work another day in your life.

I am hoping that this site will serve as a resource for everyone who would like to know more about the movies that I make and hope that it will encourage gay men and women everywhere to stand shoulder-to-shoulder with their peers in making their marks in their own fields.

"Happiness here and now" is a saying that I hold very close to my heart because I have always believed that we are our own destinies. And yes, I have found my happiness and claimed it.

Please feel free to email me.

Jay

Kambyo (2008)

2009-02-17T23:33:00.005+08:00

From the makers of “Ang Lihim ni Antonio” (Antonio’s Secret) come a heartwarming story of four men, their friendship and a road trip that will change their lives forever.

It’s the last summer of their university life. Cousins Macky (Rayan Dulay, Bathhouse) and Manuel (Kenjie Garcia, Ang Lihim ni Antonio) start on a road trip to look for the Macky’s long lost friend Philip (Johnron Tanada). They bring along with them their fun loving friend Xavier (Harold Macasero), who tags along a hunky guy named Aldo (Gabz del Rosario), whom he just met right before their trip.

As the engine of Macky’s old van begins to accelerate, their relationships start on a new journey. Love blooms. Secrets unfold. Insecurities collide. And hidden desires set in.

As they drive their way up north of Manila , this unrestrained group of three friends and a stranger explore the boundaries of their friendships, their sexualities, their dreams and the future that lies ahead of them.

Ang Lihim ni Antonio (2008)

2009-02-17T22:57:00.011+08:00

Antonio, a curious 15-year old boy begins to ponder on the purpose of his life and identity. He has begun confronting issues that affect him - acceptance of his peers, his family which is on the verge of breaking up; and the sudden flare of his sexual urges.

Antonio’s mother, Tere, a hardworking community health care worker is in continuous denial that her husband has left them for another family. Antonio’s best friend, Mike, curiously confronts him regarding his sexual preference. And Antonio’s other best friend, Nathan, is avoiding him after their secret and intoxicated encounter.

Antonio’s life begins to take a dangerous yurn as his uncle Jonbert begins to live with them one Christmas vacation. Jonbert, a hedonistic and carefree young man, has become Antonio’s destructive sexual aim.

As Antonio immerses himself in erotic oblivion with Jonbert, his mother Tere, learns that Cito, Antonio’s father, has another family abroad. Soon, thereafter, the repressed mother accidentally discovers Jonbert sodomizing her son Antonio. And the incident exploded into a violent tragedy.

As the community silently watches in shock, Antonio confesses to the homicide while Tere is left in a psychological trauma.

Director's Note:

Abuse can happen to anyone. But the worst kind is the abuse that happens to a child. And the frightening reality is that most often the abuser is someone that we trust.

What they say about Antonio:

Philippine Daily Inquirer:

'Ang Lihim ni Antonio'
tonight in UP
Marinel Cruz
February 4, 2008

Philippine Entertainnment Portal:

"Ang Lihim ni Antonio" showcases the anatomy of desire and longing Danio Caw February 11, 2008

"The human longings that stir deep within us are the focus of the new digital film, Ang Lihim ni Antonio."

"Lihim gifts viewers with emotions--both lighthearted and heavy dramatic scenes, which are felt throughout the film."

"But the true scene-stealer of the movie is Shamaine Buencamino..

Her scene infront of the mirror..
..brings to mind Hollywood actress Meryl Streep in the movie The Bridges of Madison County."

"All in all, Ang Lihim ni Antonio deserves your time and money."

Ang Lalake sa Parola (2007)

2009-02-17T22:46:00.005+08:00

Mateo (Harry Laurel) has been searching for his father (Richard Quan) who left when he was five. His search leads him to Lobo, Batangas only to discover that his father is in Dubai.

Awaiting his father’s return, Mateo works as the caretaker of Lobo’s lighthouse. Here, he meets Jerome (Justin de Leon), a gay man from the city. What ensues soon after the meeting is the beginning of his homoerotic journey, while Suzette (Jennifer Lee), Mateo’s girlfriend struggles for his love and attention.

Will Mateo, in the midst of his conservative rural community, cross the thin line between being straight and being gay?

This story is a search for oneself as seen through the lens of rural homosexuality, myths, and fairies; and the lies that people create to escape the bitter realities of life.

What begins as a search for one’s father evolves into a search for one’s self?

Director's Note:
Life is a journey and a continuous search for something. We might be looking for our roots, happiness or even material fulfillment. At the end of the journey, we realize that the search is all about finding one’s true self, and learning to accept and embrace it.

Biography

2009-02-17T22:05:00.008+08:00

Joselito Altarejos is a television and film director in the Philippines. He is also Creative Director for BEYONDtheBOX, a group of media practitioners formed in 2003.

BEYONDtheBOX produces TV commercials, audio-visual presentations and digital films. Among its clients are Digital Viva, Nestle Philippines, Bayer, White Flower, Fernslim, Chris Cahilig Consultancy and Mindworks, Inc. It has been giving acting and TV production workshops to students and aspiring actors since its inception in 2003 in Baguio City.

Altarejos' first two digital films, Ang Lalake sa Parola and Ang Lihim ni Antonio were both critical and commercial successes with "Parola" being graded B by the Philippine Cinema Evaluation Board, and "Antonio" becoming the highest grossing digital film ever shown in Robinson’s Cinemas.

At present, he is based in Quezon City, Philippines.

FILMOGRAPHY:

2008
- Kambyo (Change Gear)
- Ang Lihim ni Antonio (Antonio’s Secret)
• 2008 Cinemalaya Inpendent Film Festival , Philippines – Special Selection (July)
• 2008 IMAGEOUT Rochester Lesbian & Gay Film festival –Rochester, New York, USA
Official Selection (October)
2007
- Ang Lalake sa Parola (The Man in the Lighthouse)
• Graded B: Cinema Evaluation Board, Philippines
• 2008 Cinemalaya Inpendent Film Festival , Philippines – Special Selection (July)
• Director’s Cut Film Festival
University of the Philippines (March 2008)
• Manila Pride Fest Mandaluyong, Philippines
Official Selection (October 2007)
2006
- Calauit: Isang Paraiso, Dalawang Mundo
(Calauit: A Paradise of Contradictions)
Documentary for Institute of Popular Democracy
1998-2002
- Kiss ‘mo Ko (Kiss Me)
- Umaga, Tanghali, Gabi (Morning, Noon, Evening)
• 2001 Star Awards for Television – Best Movie for Television
- Pariwara (Lost Soul)

* Monalisa - Best Actress/ Single Performance

2001 Star Awards for Television
- Bakla (Homosexual)
• 1999 Asian TV Awards (Singapore) – Finalist, Best Movie for Television

*Romnick Sarmenta - Best Actor

1999 Asian TV Awards (Singapore)
- I Love You, She Loves Me
- Guadalupe
- Hustisya (Justice)
- Tabloid story