“Just One Summer” is an upcoming romantic movie starring Kapuso tween stars Elmo Magalona and Julie Anne San Jose or “Julielmo,” moniker to them by their fans.

Directed by Mac Alejandre, “Just One Summer” is coming soon in theaters nationwide!

Watch the teaser trailer here:

Images courtesy of GMA Network Community Board

‘Just One Summer’ Starring Elmo Magalona and Julie Anne San Jose (Movie Teaser) originally appeared on Starmometer on January 6, 2012.

Known for his unorthodox brand of film-making, “The Road” director Yam Laranas promises to treat moviegoers to a fresh new approach to horror.

Q: How long did it take you and GMA Films to produce this film?

LARANAS: “I began writing the story of “The Road” in 2005. It was completed just August last year. After that, we got the approval of GMA Films sometime in January this year and we immediately began pre-production. The actual shooting started in July.”

Q: What things did you consider in writing the film?

LARANAS: “Nung sinusulat namin ang pelikula, ang sinabi namin‘enough of the Asian horror.’ Not that there’s something wrong with the genre but because marami na kasing nakapanood ng mga pelikulang ganun. For me, with respect to the audience, kailangan magpakita naman tayo ng bago. Yung iba naman.”

Q: We have seen several good horror movies both foreign and local in the past, what sets “The Road” apart from these films?

LARANAS: “Nakakatuwa nga kasi meron kaming listahan ng mga eksenang hindi na dapat isama sa pelikula kasi gasgas na: yung mga tipong hinihila sa ilalim ng kama, yung may tatapik sa likod mo tapos paglingon mo kaibigan mo lang pala, etc. Sabi ko, ‘pag walang kinalaman sa istorya, wag na nating ilagay.’ Kasi yung audience –lalo na yung mga mahihilig sa horror – alam na nila lahat ‘yan e. Hindi mo sila mabobola. At feeling ko nakakahiya sa audience kung ang ipapakita mo sa kanila ay ang mga bagay na napanood na nila.”

Q: So, why ‘The Road’?

LARANAS: “I chose the title ‘The Road’ because it could mean a lot of things. Pwedeng papunta ka pa lang, pwede ring pabalik na. Sa kwentong ito, hindi alam ng mga characters sa pelikula kung pabalik na sila o papunta pa lang. And that adds to the mystery. Sa kwento ng pelikula, na-trap sila sa road for thirty years pero hindi nila alam kung ano ang nangyayari at kung bakit.”

Q: What were your bases in casting actors for the film?

LARANAS: “The first thing I asked for was a list of good actors, tapos base sa listahan na ‘yun namili ako. At dahil yung movie ay nangangailangan ng serious acting, pinili ko yung sa tingin ko ay mayroon talagang commitment. Lahat ng artista ko sa pelikula ay may commitment. Hindi lang sa project kundi sa mga character din nila.”

Q: This is the tweens’ first horror movie and their first film with you as the director, so how was it working with them?

LARANAS: “I think yung mga fans ng tweens lalong bibilib sa kanila kasi makikita nila na hindi lang sila marunong sumayaw o kumanta. Mas maa-appreciate nila ang acting ng mga tweens dahil napaka-convincing talaga.”

Q: We are used to seeing Alden Richards portray a role of a “boy-next-door” cutie, but in this film he portrays the character of an abductor and rapist. How hard a task was it to transform a good-looking heartthrob into an evil antagonist? (laughs)

LARANAS: “Si Alden has one of the most difficult roles sa pelikula kasi halos wala siyang speaking lines; halos dalawang sentences lang. Kaya kung ikaw ang artista, paano mo ilalabas ang emosyon mo kung wala kang sasabihin? Ang mga manonood ay, at one point,kikiligin kay Alden and at another matatakot sila and yet ginawa niya ito through pure acting; without the help of so much words. Hindi lang siya magaling, talagang committed pa siya sa role niya.”

Q: Rhian Ramos is one versatile talent. We’ve seen her do drama and comedy, and she’s a good host too, what more can we expect from her in ‘The Road’?

LARANAS: “Rhian will show everyone how great an actress she is in this film. She is very serious in portraying her character. So serious that pag merong moments na pinapaiyak siya, ang hirap niyang mapatigil. Rhian has proven that she is a very good actress and I think she’s going to stay long in this business. I have told her that several times in the past, akala niya nagbibiro lang ako o pinupuri ko lang siya para mas ganahan siyang umarte, but it’s really true.”

Q: Where is this ‘road’?

LARANAS: “Most of our sequences were shot in Teresa, Rizal. Ang ganda ganda ng location; very cinematic and it’s actually the first time that it was used as a location for a film.”

Q: Did you have goose bumps while shooting the film?

LARANAS: “Hindi naman. But at one point, some of crew members refuse to use the restroom on the upper floor of the house where we shot several sequences in. Pati yung mismong road ay nakakatakot din talaga.Kahit nga yung artista, pagkatapos nilang mag-shoot nagmamadali silang umalis. Pati nga yung crew nagtatakutan kasi madilim talaga. Kami lang kasi yung nandun e. ‘Pag pinatay mo yung ilaw, ang dilim dilim niya talaga dahil malayo siya sa mga kabahayan e. Yun pa lang nakakatakot na, and I think yun kaagad ang maeexperience ng audience.”

Q: Your last feature film, Sigaw, reaped international acclaim and was even released abroad. Do you think “The Road” will replicate or even surpass its success?

LARANAS: “I really hope so. May mga [film] festival na humihingi na ng copies. Nakakatuwa dahil trailer pa lang ng pelikula maugong na sa internet. May mga foreign buyer na rin na interested in releasing the movie in North America and Europe. Nagpapadala na kami ng screeners, kinakausap ko na yung mga festival organizer. Actually, ‘The Road’ is currently being evaluated by a big company in the States and hopefully, magustuhan nila at i-release nila.”

Q: What should moviegoers expect from this film?

LARANAS: “Maraming surprises na makikita ang audience sa mga cast ng pelikula. Yung tipong sasabihin nila na ‘Oh my God, ang galing pala nilang umarte.’ Pag nakita mo yung artistang hinahangaan mo TV at pag nakita mo siya sa pelikulang ‘The Road’,mapapansin mong meron silang ibang level sa pag-arte na hindi pa natin napapanood sa mga teleserye o movies na nagawa nila. At ako bilang direktor at bilang kasama nila sa trabaho ay natutuwa kasi nabigyan nila ng buhay yung script at yung kwento.”

Q: Why should horror fans watch “The Road”?

LARANAS: “The Road is a ghost story, that’s why it’s very real. Yung mga nakapanood na ng mga preview screenings namin isa lang ang sinasabi nila: ‘ayokong panoorin ‘tong mag-isa. We guarantee the audience that the ‘scare’ of the road is something new. Sana magustuhan nila, at sana panoorin nila.”

Q: After “The Road,” what kind of film would you want to do?

LARANAS: “Hindi ko pa alam kung anong klaseng movie ang gagawin ko, pero any story that’s compelling — may it be comedy, love story or thriller — walang problema sa akin.”

Dubbed as the scariest movie of the year, “The Road” opens in theaters nationwide beginning November 30 (Wednesday).

Watch the full trailer here:

Interview with ‘The Road’ Director Yam Laranas originally appeared on Starmometer on November 29, 2011.

GMA’s tween stars Alden Richards, Lexi Fernandez, Derrick Monasterio and Barbie Forteza, who also topbill the movie graced the event. Also present to catch the premiere showing of “The Road” which was hosted by Tim Yap were Annabelle Rama, DJ Angelicopter, Aljur Abrenica, GMA Films President Annette Gozon-Abrogar, and GMA Network Chief Executive and Chair Atty. Felipe Gozon.

And adding megawatt glitter to the event is the presence of newest Kapatid star–Sharon Cuneta–who supported her friend, Yam Laranas, the director of the film.

‘The Road’ VIP Celebrity Premiere – Photos originally appeared on Starmometer on November 27, 2011.

“The Road” stars Carmina Villarroel, Marvin Agustin, Rhian Ramos, Barbie Forteza, TJ Trinidad, tween stars Alden Richards, Louise delos Reyes, Derrick Monasterio, Lexi Fernandez, Ynna Asistio and Renz Valerio.

Also starring in the film are John Regala, Lloyd Samartino, Gerald Madrid, Allan Paule, Dex Quindoza, Ana Abad Santos and Ms. Jacklyn Jose.

Described by international film critics as “creepy to the extreme” (KillerFilm.com) and a “beautifully shot supernatural tale with incredible effects and great scares” (Bloody Disgusting), The Road is a story about a twelve-year-old cold case, which is reopened when three teenagers go missing while traversing an infamous and abandoned road. As investigators try to find leads to the whereabouts of the missing teens, they also unearth the road’s gruesome past that spans two decades – a history of abduction, crimes and murders. Although the road is isolated, anyone who tries to pass through it can be sure that he is not alone. Lingering in the dark and desolate pathway is a vengeful ghost who makes sure no one leaves the road – alive!

Known for his unorthodox brand of film-making, “The Road” director Yam Laranas (Sigaw/The Echo) promises to treat moviegoers to a fresh new approach to horror.

“Nakakatuwa nga kasi meron kaming listahan ng mga eksenang hindi na dapat isama sa pelikula kasi gasgas na: yung mga tipong hinihila sa ilalim ng kama, yung may tatapik sa likod mo tapos paglingon mo kaibigan mo lang pala, etc. Sabi ko, ‘pag walang kinalaman sa istorya, wag na nating ilagay.’ Kasi yung audience –lalo na yung mga mahihilig sa horror – alam na nila lahat ‘yan e. Hindi mo sila mabobola. At feeling ko nakakahiya sa audience kung ang ipapakita mo sa kanila ay ang mga bagay na napanood na nila,” Laranas said.

Apart from its superb cinematography and unique storyline, The Road also boasts of a hauntingly beautiful musical score created by Swedish composer Johan Soderqvist who received international recognitions for his score in the 2009 horror-thriller, Let the Right One In.

Prepare yourselves for the scariest movie of the year – The Road – showing in nationwide theatres beginning November 30.

If you’re not brave enough, be cautioned: DON’T WATCH IT ALONE!

‘The Road’ is the Scariest Movie of the Year originally appeared on Starmometer on November 26, 2011.

“The Road” stars TJ Trinidad, Ynna Asistio, Barbie Forteza, Louise Delos Reyes, Lexie Fernandez, Alden Richards, Derek Monasterio, Marvin Agustin, Carmina Villaroel, and Rhian Ramos. This tri-part movie about three decades of mysterious deaths on a road is helmed by “Sigaw” and “The Echo” director Yam Laranas for GMA Films.

Watch the teaser trailer here:

‘The Road’ by Yam Laranas – Teaser Trailer originally appeared on Starmometer on August 31, 2011.

Directed by Mark Reyes, the movie follows an entirely different storyline from the hit TV series and features a new set of characters, each with a unique story to bring.

The movie stars GMA Tweens Barbie Forteza, Joshua Dionisio, Jake Vargas, Bea Binene, Lexi Fernandez, Louise delos Reyes, Alden Richards, Kristoffer Martin, Joyce Ching and Derrick Monasterio. Also in the cast is Elmo Magalona.

Barbie Forteza is Kara, a cosplayer and online retailer of collectible toys. Naturally resourceful, she uses her techie skills to help her mom make ends meet for their family.

Joshua Dionisio plays a geeky toy collector, Robin. He spends most of his time at their family-owned computer shop, while doing other student’s computer projects to earn extra income. His liking of comic books and collectible toys will lead him closer to Kara.

Elmo Magalona is Enzo, the Mr. Fix-It. Perceived as an introvert, he would rather spend time with his gadgets or his two best friends Kara and George.

Bea Binene is George the boyish friend of Enzo and Kara. Caught up in the “bestfriend syndrome”, she tries to hide her feelings for her best friend enemy and instead, helps him get closer to Chloe.

Lexi Fernandez is Chloe, the typical spoiled rich girl, But underneath her popular school girl facade, Chloe faces issues concerning her weight. She attracts many guys, including Jeremy.

Jake Vargas is Jeremy or Jepoy, the group’s resident rocker. He is head-over-heels with Chloe and tries to get closer to her through his best friend George. In the end, he just might realize that he is chasing the wrong girl.

Louise delos Reyes is high school sweetheart Jessamine or Jess. She belongs to a poor family but hides this from her circle of friends. She pretends to be rich like her barkada as she desperately wants to be in the “in crowd” with Chloe.

Alden Richards is Christian, the high school heartthrob. Despite his good looks and popularity in school, Christian is a down-to-earth and friendly person. He is close friends with Robin and he will fall in love with Jess.

Kristoffer Martin is happy-go-lucky Diego. He carries a devil-may-care attitude, carelessly engaging in one fight after another. He is inseparable from his scooter and has a girlfriend named Ashlee.

Joyce Ching is Ashlee, a diligent working student. She juggles her time between school and work, leaving her almost always stressed out. She is a good influence to her boyfriend Diego.

And finally, Derrick Monasterio is Maximo, the resident school bully. He puts on a strong front but is actually a coward inside. He likes to pick on George and Enzo.

Get to see all of them when the movie opens this August.

‘Tween Academy: Class of 2012′ Hits Theaters on August 24 originally appeared on Starmometer on August 4, 2011.

This is good news for the Regal Films and GMA Films co-production which means the movie is entitled to a 65% amusement tax rebate.

“Temptation Island” the remake is helmed by Chris Martinez, the director of 2010′s box-office comedy hit “Here Comes the Bride” which also got a grade of B from the CEB.

The remake stars Marian Rivera, Solenn Heusaff, Heart Evangelista, Lovi Poe, Mikael Daez, Aljur Abrenica, John Lapus, Tom Rodriguez and Rufa Mae Quinto.

The film had a successful red carpet premiere last Sunday night at SM Megamall, graced by most of its stars, the director, producers and other celebrity supporters as well (CLICK HERE TO VIEW THE PICTURES).

“Temptation Island” opens in theaters nationwide tomorrow, July 6.

‘Temptation Island’ (2011) Graded B by the Cinema Evaluation Board originally appeared on Starmometer on July 5, 2011.

Stars who walked the red carpet are the cast-members of the movie like Marian Rivera…

Solenn Heusaff…

…Mikael Daez, John Lapus, Tom Rodriguez…

…Lovie Poe and Rufa Mae Quinto were also present.

Heart Evangelista and her love interest in the movie, Aljur Abrenica were notably absent during the red carpet premiere.

Director Chris Martinez also graced the event.

Other stars spotted during the event were Ricky Davao, Ronnie Rickets, Geoff Taylor, Fabio Ide, Hideo Muroaki, Ms. Celia Rodriguez, Tim Yap, IC Mendoza, Korina Sanchez, Sen. Antonio Trillanes and Kapamilya hunk Jake Cuenca.

“Temptation Island” opens in theaters nationwide this Wednesday, July 6, 2011.

‘Temptation Island’ Premiere Night Photos originally appeared on Starmometer on July 4, 2011.

They are the tweens of the fictional school Ridge View High from the hit youth-oriented program of GMA-7, “Tween Hearts.” And they are set to take over the big screen on August 24!

They are Kara (Barbie Forteza), Bino (Joshua Dionisio), Jepoy (Jake Vargas), George (Bea Binene), Chloe (Lexi Fernandez), Jess (Louise delos Reyes), Christian (Alden Richards), Diego (Kristoffer Martin), Ashlee (Joyce Ching), and Maximo (Derrick Monasterio). Also included in the movie are Joey (Azkals’ Mark McMahon), and Enzo (Elmo Magalona).

Here are some behind the scenes photos:

Images courtesy of jrjchavez

First-Look: ‘Tween Hearts: Class of 2012′ Behind the Scenes Photos originally appeared on Starmometer on June 23, 2011.

Helmed by award-winning director, Chris Martinez, “Temptation Island” stars Marian Rivera, Heart Evangelista, Lovi Poe, Solenn Heusaff, Rufa Mae Quinto, Aljur Abrenica, Tom Rodriguez, John Lapuz and newcomer Mikael Daez.

Leading men Tom Rodriguez (replacement for Paulo Avelino), Mikael Daez and Aljur Abrenica:

Lovi Poe, Solenn Heusaff and Rufa Mae Quinto:

More photos courtesy of Rufa Mae Quinto here.

Also, lead stars Marian, Heart, Solenn and Lovi talk about “Temptation Island” the remake on this YouTube video provided by Regal Films (regalcinema):

Images courtesy of Rufa Mae Quinto (@imrufamaequinto), videos courtesy of Regal Films

Sneak Peek: Shooting of ‘Temptation Island’ Featuring Marian Rivera, Rufa Mae Quinto, Heart Evangelista and More! originally appeared on Starmometer on April 24, 2011.

The film is topbilled by the Valentine Box Office King – Richard Gutierrez:

Jillian Ward is Richard’s kid sister, a pseudo cupid who will help him find his match.

And here are Richard’s leading ladies in the movie:

Rhian Ramos:

Solenn Heusaff:

Lovi Poe:

Eugene Domingo:

Directed By Chris Martinez, Andoy Ranay and Dominic Zapata, My Valentine Girls opens in theaters on February 9, 2011.

Images courtesy of Regal Multimedia.

‘My Valentine Girls’ Character Posters Released originally appeared on Starmometer on January 24, 2011.

The film stars the Valentines Box Office King Richard Gutierrez as a novelist searching for a girlfriend with Jillian Ward as his little sister who will have a cupid-like purpose in the movie.

The film has three romantic stories:

“Soulmates” tells of a relationship that started with a vehicular accident involving Richard and Rhian Ramos, a fashion stylist. Richard dies and appears to Rhian as a ghost to ask for help in going back to his family. Eventually, they get closer to each other but what else can happen to them if Richard is already a ghost?

Another story features Richard’s team-up with Survivor Philippines’ Solenn Heussaff in “BBFF”. Richard plays the role of a lawyer who decides to propose to his best friend Solenn. However, the latter prefers that they remain friends due to her beliefs and notions on friendships turning into romantic relationships. She then sets up Richard with Lovi Poe and the two hit it off. Will Solenn regret her match-making in the end?

The trilogy also includes “Gunaw”, an apocalyptic tale with ace comedienne Eugene Domingo. Uge convinces Richard that they have a mission to procreate because they are the only humans left after a worldwide disaster. Will Richard give in to Uge for the sake of humankind?

“My Valentine Girls” is set to open in theaters on February 9, 2011.

‘My Valentine Girls’ Official Movie Poster Released originally appeared on Starmometer on January 20, 2011.