Vic still at it for the nth time

MANILA, Philippines - Vic Sotto’s box-office record in the annual Metro Manila Film Festival (MMFF) is phenomenal. From 2002 to 2008, his entries are consistently proclaimed festival top grosser. Who would ever forget Lastikman, Fantastik Man, the Enteng Kabisote series and last year’s Iskul Bukol (20 Years After)? These films catapulted Vic as the undisputed Box-office King of MMFF.

This year, the comedian-host is in contention again with Ang Darling Kong Aswang. This early, many are already saying that it will grab the top spot at the tills when it opens on Dec. 25.

Apart from Vic’s box-office charisma, there’s his tried-and-tested partnership with director Tony Reyes. The box-office director handled all Vic’s previous MMFF entries.

It’s also worth mentioning that Tony’s APT Entertainment merged this time with Vic’s M-Zet TV Productions and Orly Ilacad’s OctoArts Films in bringing a must-see Christmas presentation for the family. With three of the country’s top film outfits collaborating for the grand horror-fantasy-comedy, there’s really no reason why Ang Darling Kong Aswang won’t be a blockbuster.

Like his previous MMFF entries, Vic’s latest potboiler is a certified winner when it comes to budget, casting, visual effects and storyline. For Vic and his team, they are ready to give anything for the satisfaction of the viewers. For the last seven years, the comedian has been able to create a huge cult following in the MMFF and is bent on continuing his winning streak this 2009. For one, Ang Darling Kong Aswang possesses all the elements of a potential hit.

To begin with, the love story between an aswang and a mortal is interesting. Their funny and breathtaking adventures are sure to tickle audiences. Then, there’s the exciting fight and suspenseful chase scenes among the aswang and mortals which are guaranteed to keep the viewers on the edge of their seats. Here’s where the state-of-the-art visual effects come in.

Another come-on is Vic’s team-up with Cristine Reyes. It’s a new combination so the public will get curious how they’ll fare on screen. Cristine is definitely one of the hottest among the younger crop of actresses. Her presence in the movie can’t be ignored. And what’s good is that Vic believes she has a long way to go in the business considering the dedication and professionalism she shows towards her craft.

For Cristine, it’s a big honor to be Vic’s leading lady in the movie. She knows that she’s with a winning team. Not all new actresses have the chance to get paired with an icon like Vic so she’s thankful to land the role of the female lead. She’s aware that many young actresses wish to be in her shoes.

Playing support to Vic and Cristine are Jean Garcia, Agot Isidro, Jackie Rice, Denise Laurel, Empress Schuck, Rafael Rosell and Gian Sotto. 

Richie D’ Horsie, Dante Rivero, Allan K, Joonee Gamboa, Luz Fernandez, Jenny Miller, Wally Bayola, Tita Swarding, Mosang, Shalala, Mika dela Cruz and Barbie Forteza are also part of the cast.

Joey de Leon, Pia Guanio, Oyo Sotto and Jacky Woo will appear in cameo roles.