Why GB Sampedro is an actor's director

He is not the type who would invent stunts to hog the headlines. He’d rather be behind the cameras working quietly and diligently. GB Sampedro is not one who would court a controversy. He is one of those mabait directors. He is soft spoken, approachable and friendly. As a director, he does not shout at his staff and actors. He also does not make unreasonable demands. “I am very polite. For example when I am about to shoot a scene, I listen to my actor’s inputs. Mahalaga ang opinion nila,” he said. 

One of the new directors of TV5, he always wants to do his best. But never will he promise the moon and stars to sell a program or a movie. Instead, he will present the strengths and weaknesses of the show and its competition, leaving the audience to make its own decisions. “I always try my best like everyone else.”

Even when he was working on Astig for Cinemalaya last year, no one ever heard GB say, “We have a strong chance of winning.” Rather, whenever asked about his film’s chances in winning awards, he’d say, “Well, our film is good but I’m sure so is... and...”

Came awards night, and like what many people predicted, GB won as Best Director.

Note that Astig is still touring in different film festivals abroad after Pusan and Japan. It is currently part of the Barcelona Film Festival currently ongoing up to May 10.

It was also nominated in the Best Digital Film category at the PMPC Star Awards for Movies where he was also nominated for Best Director.  A few days ago, GB was nominated as Best Movie Director in GAWAD Urian.  

Not one to rest on his laurels, GB’s mind is already on his next projects. His next movie, tentatively titled Separado, tackles divorce from the male’s point of view.

GB started out as a director of TV commercials. He later megged music videos and concerts before doing TV shows. His resume includes Ruffa & Ai, Real Pinoy Fighter, Homeboy and Boy & Kris.

He is low key with regards to his love life. Although he and comedienne Candy Pangilinan have been a couple for years now — they are actually engaged — she had only appeared once in the many shows he has directed (in Boy & Kris a couple of years back).

The two plan to wed in civil rites and in church as soon as possible.

Indeed, the meek shall inherit the earth.

Angel’s gift to Luis

Birthday girl Angel Locsin was gifted with an expensive camera by former boyfriend Luis Manzano. Luis was not able to attend Angel’s birthday celebrations at her Fuel Up bar. The actress was a bit surprised but nevertheless, happy with the gift. Luis bought the camera in the US according to the actress.

Always in the news because of allegations of drinking and quarreling with her former manager, Angel confides that she is still friends with Luis. She is also thinking of sending him a gift as he just recently celebrated his birthday. “The magnetic speaker which I gave him is not really a birthday gift. It just happened that I gave it to him on his birthday, “ she said. Angel is thinking of something special for Luis.

Angel also denied that Chito Miranda of Parokya ni Edgar is her boyfriend. She also rejected claims by some wags that Chito is a bad influence on her. The actress is now preparing for a new teleserye which she will co-star with John Lloyd Cruz billed Imortal. “I am excited with the project. It’s magical. I am looking forward to working with direk Chito Roño and John Lloyd. Hinintay ko siya for almost one year and now may chance na kaming magkatrabaho. Naiintriga ako sa kanya,” said Angel. 

All the best Angel!

Charice launches album

Charice will launch her new self-titled album in Oprah, then in Good Morning America. Oprah acts as the fairy godmother of Charice, and is instrumental to Charice’s new found fame in the US. Brilliant singer composer David Foster serves as her adviser. One of the cuts in the album titled Pyramid is on the seventh spot in US Billboards Hot Dance Club Party Play Chart. Charice was called by the New York Post, as the new Pop Princess, a title once held by Britney Spears. She will be celebrating her 18th birthday and will Oprah attend Charice’s birthday? What about Ellen?

What a girl, this Charice!