From wholesome to suggestive: Diversity and democracy in Pinoy films
Those who enjoy films that show a lot of skin and intimacy can always turn to Vivamax, which these days practically brags that Ricky Lee, the latest National Artist for Film and Broadcast Arts, has begun writing scripts for them.
photograph courtesy of net25 THE cast of NET25’s ‘Monday First Screening.’
Suddenly this year, an entirely wholesome film dawned upon us, and its producer has "threatened" to come up with four or more movies of the same mold within the next 12 months.
The film is Monday First Screening, topbilled by senior stars (in industry stature and biological age) Gina Alajar and Ricky Davao. The producer is Net25, which is identified with the Iglesia ni Cristo sect. But its president, Ceazar Vallejos, recently clarified that it will be a largely commercial venture and not a platform for proselytization.
The network held a block screening on 5 September at SM North Edsa Cinema on the film's second week in some theaters. That was when Vallejos revealed that Net25 Films plans to make four to five films within 12 months.
Monday First Screening had its gala premiere on 12 June but it nationwide theatrical release began only on 30 August. It's now on an extended run in some theaters.
Net25's Meta/Facebook account reported on 31 August: "On its opening day, 30 August, Monday First Screening earned the top spot as the number one movie in cinemas nationwide!"
Daily Tribune film reviewer Stephanie Mayo wrote about the film: "The rom-com does not contain profanity or indecency, making it appropriate for all ages. The packed theater was thoroughly engaged, frequently erupting in laughter and applause, and loudly gushing at the 'kilig' scenes — indicating that Filipino audiences can still appreciate wholesome entertainment if it's smartly written…"
