Erich Gonzales: On Derek, Corazon and Mario

CEBU, Philippines - To recall, Erich and Derek’s tandem was marked with malicious talk of a jealous Angelica Panganiban. Nevertheless, Erich is hats off to her older screen partner’s acting skills.

“He’s very professional. I saw how serious he was with his craft. He’s something to watch out for in this movie. But I’d also like to add that our supporting cast here performed very well.”

Faced with an ultimate hunk who had no qualms with intimate scenes, Erich was also not one to back down, as long as what was asked of her were necessary for the film’s development.

“If it will make the movie better, there’s no problem for me. Those past love scenes I had with Enchong, it required us to be wild. In this movie, the script asked for passion. It’s up to our director how he wants us to execute it. I just listen for instructions. Derek basically did everything in our love scene and I only had to remain steady.”

Was she nervous while doing a love scene with Derek, which reportedly took a whole day to complete? “I had time to prepare. When you’re on the set, you have to be professional. I was not Erich the actress, but I was Corazon, a wife to Derek’s character, so I think it was just normal to have a scene like that.”

Corazon also stars Mark Gil, Tetchie Agbayani, Epi Quizon, Mon Confiado, Dan Alvaro, Sue Prado, Sharlene San Pedro, Bodjie Pascual and Ma. Isabel Lopez. Released by Star Cinema, showing on March 14 in theaters nationwide.

Suddenly It’s Magic

The Kapamilya favorite also landed the enviable spot of starring on a movie with Thai heartthrob Mario Maurer tentatively titled, Suddenly It’s Magic. This rom-com will see her portraying a pastry chef who runs her own bakeshop. In preparation, Erich is learning the basics of baking, so that she gets the nuances of her role.

“Aside from the Philippines, we’ll be shooting mostly in Bangkok. The premise of the story is, should one choose love over career? Should you give up your dreams for the one you love?” hinted Erich as a teaser to fans.

She had already met Mario, describing him as a nice, humble and no-airs celebrity. Given the chance to choose, Erich also wants to work with John Lloyd Cruz and Judy Ann Santos next, expressing certainty that she will learn a lot from them.

Behind the limelight

What is the busy talent’s idea of fun after a long day’s work?

“Work is fun for me! But really, if I don’t have work, I just stay at home. I don’t go out much. I enjoy more just resting at home. Either I watch DVDs or cook. Sometimes, I play badminton. Now, I’m learning how to play tennis.”

She also plans to finish her Mass Communications course once schedule permits. Erich had to stop during her fourth year, when work started pouring in every day.

Occasionally, Erich goes home to Davao to be with family, just like she did last Christmas. At times, this youngest of three siblings flies to Japan to visit a sister.

She admits to living a much more comfortable life now, being an in-demand actress and product endorser. But with all the people she is still hoping to help out, Erich is not about to take it easy. “Magpa-dato pa para daghan tang matabangan. If I have many blessings, I make sure I don’t forget to share them.” (FREEMAN)