Rhian’s trusting heart

Rhian Ramos is at a loss for words to describe what she feels, now that she stars the TV version of Viva Films’ box-office hit, My Only Love. Rhian plays the down-to-earth and boyish Cindy, the character originally played by Sharon Cuneta. Mark Herras is Gabby Concepcion’s Billy, a handsome biker torn between Cindy and ballet dancer Trixie, originally played by Jacquilou Blanco. Bianca King plays Jacquilou’s role for the small screen.

Sine Novela Presents My Only Love premiered last Nov. 12, the same date the glossy movie hit local theaters in 1982. It was Sharon’s third movie.

GMA 7’s My Only Love is different from the movie as it goes heavy drama. What was teen romance flick 25 years ago now discusses the importance of friendship, sacrifice and love in a different level.

“We have big shoes to fill in,” replies Rhian when asked about her reaction that she’s doing a remake of a Sharon movie. “I was nervous when I learned about it. My nerves really got the better of me. I want to make my own, sincere interpretation of my character. I watched the movie and studied Cindy like how she moved. I want to be truthful to the character. I wish to put my own flavor or insights to Cindy. I hope people will not make any comparison or competition out of it. After all, they (Sharon, Gabby and Jacquilou) are the originals.”

Meantime, Rhian wants to focus all her energy on My Only Love. Besides, her role is more physically demanding than emotionally challenging, shares Rhian. One example is the scene where her beautiful face gets some soaking up from a lady character bent on making Cindy’s life a living hell.

Rhian says she will definitely get by as everyone is helpful and supportive. My Only Love director Louie Ignacio is proud of what the young actress has shown so far. He tells everyone that Rhian has shed buckets and buckets of tears. It’s not surprising why the GMA Artist Center talent has delivered in some of the poignant scenes of the sine novela. Rhian’s acting mettle will also be measured up in her intimate, kissing scenes with Mark.

How’s her heart these days?

“I’m scared of falling in love,” Rhian replies. “I’m the type who trusts someone easily. Besides, when you’re in love, you get hurt in the process. Well, I don’t know what to do with it. I don’t know if I’m ready. Perhaps, I’m ready when I’m done with my work and when I’m emotionally prepared.”

But that doesn’t spare her from admiring good-looking and easy-to-get-along-with guys.

Among today’s male showbiz stars, Rhian admires DJ Mo Twister and Richard Gutierrez, her leading man on now defunct shows Lupin and Captain Barbell. She says Richard is her crush while Mo is just a good friend. Rhian enjoys Mo’s company because of his ”universal” comments on everything and anything under the sun and his presence makes her feel smart.

If televiewers wish to see the bubbly side of Rhian, they just have to switch the channel on Animax and  watch her lifestyle-variety show titled Mad, Mad Fun.

With My Only Love’s entry to the afternoon block of GMA 7, will Rhian give GMA 7 Dramarama sa Hapon Queen Yasmien Kurdi a run for her money? Stay tuned.