Marina: Fantasy and myth

ABS-CBN introduces another innovation to Filipino television programming as it presents Claudine Barretto in the new fantaserye Marina.

Fusing elements of traditional fantasy and myth, high-tech television production methods, and the scope and polish of ABS-CBN’s legendary teleserye projects, the all-new genre casts award-winning performers in a compelling story of destiny, jealousy, passion, and the lengths we go to for love.

Marina takes the viewer on a fairytale adventure over picturesque lands and even under the sea as we meet the mermaid Marina (Claudine). Marina was born as Cristina, daughter of human parents Esther (Snooky Serna) and Elias (Joel Torre). A normal child in all respects, Marina falls victim to a curse by Victoria (Cherie Gil), a sea deity masquerading as a normal woman who seeks vengeance on Elias through his daughter. Hoping Victoria would lift her curse on the child if Elias comes back to her, Elias leaves Esther to raise Cristina alone.

When the curse turns true and the child turns into a mermaid on her seventh birthday, Esther realizes Cristina’s life would be in danger in their superstitious, parochial fishing village, where mermaids are believed to be unlucky. Esther abandons Cristina at sea, where the child learns to hate her mother.

Cristina is found by Istah (Sunshine Cruz), queen of the mermaids. What destiny awaits the young mermaid under Istah’s care? Will she long for the human life she left behind?

Aside from Claudine, Snooky, Cherie, Joel and Sunshine, Marina will also feature an acclaimed and experienced cast, including Agot Isidro (Sheila Corrales), Bobby Andrews (Raphael Sandico), Eugene Domingo (Lorelie), Malu de Guzman (Dugong), Meryll Soriano (Luna Raymundo), Debraliz (Pilar Ballesteros) and Jenny Miller (Vyxia). Marina will also feature breakthrough roles for newcomers Maui David (Quiana), Dustin Reyes (Mario Ballesteros), Robin Tolentino (Ronald Martinez), John Barretto (Leon del Rosario), Pauline Luna (Isabel Ballesteros), Gabby Drilon (Carlito Barbero) and up and coming talents Alvin Fortuna (Randolph Rivera) and Luke Jickain (Quintin Sandico).

Marina reunites Claudine with director Wenn Deramas, who directed her in such unforgettable projects as Mula sa Puso, Saan Ka Man Naroroon, Sa Dulo ng Walang Hanggan and Buttercup, as well as gifted young director Andoy Ranay. Keiko Aquino is Marina’s head writer, with Agnes Gagilonia-Uligan as writer. Desirey Fernandez is executive producer.