CinemaBravo

Nasugbu, Batangas has been chosen by director Elaine Crisostomo as the filming location for her latest fantasy movie, ‘Sinag,’ which notably features Claudine Barretto in her first-ever role as a fairy. Produced by Bea Glorioso of Entablado Films, who also plays a role in the movie and serves as the production manager, ‘Sinag’ promises to be a remarkable addition to Philippine cinema. The script, written by Harvie Aquino, who is also the Assistant Director, is specially crafted for Claudine.

Director Elaine Crisostomo expressed her excitement about working with Claudine Barretto, a long-time friend from the 90s.

“Matagal na kaming magkaibigan niyan. 90’s pa,” shared Direk Elaine. “Nag-Amerika lang ako, then this time na nasa Pinas na ako, [I] told her na kailangang magtrabaho kami sa isang movie and nag-isip kami ng script for her. Dahil alam naman natin na si Claudine, mahusay talagang umarte ever since and the films na ginawa niya, grabe, kapag [sinubaybayan] mo lahat, ang lalaking pelikula lahat and box-office hit lahat.”

(“We’ve been friends for a long time. I went to America, and now that I’m back in the Philippines, I told her we must work on a movie together. We brainstormed a script for her because everyone knows how excellent Claudine is as an actress. All her films are big and box-office hits.”)

Elaine added, “Excited lahat to work with her lalo na ako. That’s why, heto, rolling na tayo and I will do my best bilang direktor niya sa pelikula para the fans and followers at lahat ng nagmamahal sa kanya ay hindi tayo mapapahiya.”

(“Everyone is excited to work with her, especially me. That’s why we’re rolling, and I will do my best as her director so that fans, followers, and everyone who loves her won’t be disappointed.”)

Harvie Aquino, the scriptwriter and assistant director, shared his enthusiasm as well.

“Nung sinusulat ko talaga ang script, sabi ko, Claudine ito. Sinulat ko, ginawa ko and then I presented it to them, kay Direk Elaine at kay Claudine. Alam mo yung feeling nung binabasa niya ang script, then tinanggap niya at nakita kong she’s happy with the dialogues, everything, ang sarap sa pakiramdam. Ang saya ko. Para talaga kay Claudine ang script.”

(“When I was writing the script, I thought, ‘This is for Claudine.’ I wrote it, crafted it, and then presented it to Direk Elaine and Claudine. Seeing her happy with the dialogues and everything was a great feeling. The script is truly for Claudine.”)

During the media announcement of ‘Sinag’ a month ago, Claudine Barretto was very vocal about her excitement for the film, as it marks her first time playing the role of a diwata (fairy). The costumes for Claudine alone are reportedly worth almost 300 thousand pesos, and she personally selected them.

The production cost for ‘Sinag’ is expected to be high, especially since the special effects will be done in America. The movie is star-studded, as many of Claudine’s friends have shown interest in joining the cast, which Claudine greatly appreciated.

‘Sinag’ is expected to be completed within the month of June and is anticipated to be released in Philippine cinemas later this year.