The seduction of Richard Gutierrez

MANILA, Philippines - Alam ko trabaho mong patayin ang apoy. Siguro naman kaya mong sindihan ang aking apoy.”

More than providing us with a few quotable quotes and the sight of a stripped-down Richard Gutierrez (Solenn Heussaff for the guys), Seduction, which premieres on Monday, promises to tell a compelling story. Directed by Peque Gallaga, this is a film that attempts to flesh out the human complexities of its characters, instead of featuring the usual cookie-cutter roles and one-sided, socially acceptable perspectives.

In between the steamy takes of our exclusive photo shoot, we got to ask the new and daring Richard Gutierrez about his character, Avram, his views on seductive vs. good girls, and how a woman might light his fire and get to keep him too. The best stories, after all, are the ones that dare to blur the lines.

SUPREME: We’ve had too many movies that revolve around love triangles between a seductress, a socially acceptable woman, and a guy who cluelessly gets caught in the middle. How is this different?

RICHARD GUTIERREZ: In this movie, we didn’t follow the rule of the usual love triangle movies. Direk Peque Gallaga made sure that we went our own path and added different flavors to the “usual.” There’s no villain. The characters are well defined and the audience will be able to relate to each character.

In movies like this, the guy usually doesn’t have a definite character. He’s just someone who bounces between the two women, has his cake, and eventually goes back to the “good girl.” In the end, it could have been anyone. Tell us about your role and why he is someone we should watch out for.

The movie follows my character the whole time so my character, Avram, is well defined. We didn’t follow what is socially acceptable per se. I went out of my comfort zone and had to suffer a lot to portray the character. Direk Peque Gallaga helped me push my craft to the edge, and I think that’s what people should watch out for, aside from this being my most daring portrayal. Sarah (Lahbati) and Solenn also did a fantastic job. The effort of everyone behind this movie and the camaraderie that was built I think is what we are most proud of, and that will transmit to the big screen.

Are seductive, fiery women meant to be enjoyed momentarily and then left behind?

Seduction is not just physical, like how we see it in most sexy movies. The real seduction comes into play when you see the personality, and that’s what really attracts two people. That’s when it gets exciting. And when that happens, I don’t think it’s worth walking out on.

Are “conservative,” “bring her home to mom” women meant to be put on hold until you’re done having fun?

This type of woman that you are describing, the one that you bring home to your family and love truly is not meant to be disrespected. That’s my point of view on the question.

You mentioned that there are no villains in this film. Can you tell us more about the characters and their interplay in the movie?

The characters are relatable and the situation of each individual does not make them a kontrabida. It’s a complex love story, that’s what it is.

How was it working with Gallaga on this film?

Working with direk Peque and his team, direk Lore Reyes and Jo Macasa, was an absolute delight. They are very passionate about moviemaking and they love telling stories. The amount of focus that direk Peque puts into every detail is second to none — professionalism at its finest, working efficiently and fast. He gives his artists the freedom to create as he polishes the craft. He’s a master at his craft.

Pano sinisindihan ang apoy ng isang Richard Gutierrez?

Physical attraction is initial, but when you see the person from within then that’s what’s most attractive. When your personalities attract, the fire lights up easier and it lasts.

And how will a woman get to keep you?

Love, loyalty, honesty, and lots of laughter.

Do love and desire really have to be “either-or” as it is popularly portrayed in the media these days?

They go hand in hand. When you love, there’s desire and when there’s desire, you end up loving that desire.

* * *

Tweet the author @catedeleon