Marlon Rivera: The other boss

MANILA, Philippines - Producer and comedian Vic Sotto is “Bossing” to all the followers of Eat, Bulaga. In the Metro Manila Film Festival (MMFF) official entry My Little Bossings, Vic plays Torky, a bookkeeper entrusted to look after Justine (Bimby Yap), the son of his lady boss played by Kris Aquino.

Another ward enters the picture in the person of Ching (Ryzza Mae Dizon) and the two kiddie stars live up to the title of the movie.

The other “bossing” is director Marlon Rivera.

For the longest time, Vic has been handled by one director, Tony Reyes. Their partnership resulted in several box-office hits, led by the Enteng Kabisote series.

Advertising executive Marlon Rivera stepped into the scene as requested by Kris who is also one of the film’s five producers. The original choice was Bb. Joyce Bernal who had to back out due to previous commitments. For one, she is busy directing another MMFF entry with Robin Padilla, her favorite action star. Kris wanted someone who can make Bimby feel comfortable on and off the camera.

In his 20 years of making television commercials, Marlon has worked with children. He also earned kudos megging Ang Babae Sa Septik Tank, an acclaimed indie project which garnered many recognitions, including the Best Actress trophy for comedienne Eugene Domingo.

Prior to My Little Bossings, Vic and Marlon hardly knew each other or hadn’t met in person. Instinct drove Vic to secure a copy of Ang Babae Sa Septik Tank. He was impressed with what he saw and told Kris that Marlon is hired.

During the presscon of My Little Bossings, Marlon paid Vic a compliment.

“He is the easiest person to direct. He reports on time and without an entourage. The only person he keeps is a driver. He comes up with suggestions but never impose them. He has a very high regard for his co-workers, big or small kaya mahal siya ng lahat. He is a man of humility,” Marlon said of Vic.

“My Little Bossings is a mix of comedy and drama. Superstar comedians lead a very colorful life. Hollywood’s Charlie Chaplin and our very own, the late Comedy King Dolphy, are perfect examples. In this movie, Vic delivers a heartwarming performance worthy of a nomination. Marami kasing pinaghuhugutan,” the director added.

In Ang Babae Sa Septik Tank, the lead actress talks of two methods of acting, the “elevator” kind and the “TV Patrol” type.

Would any of this apply to Vic Sotto, we wonder.