Why ‘La Vita è Bella’ is true for Ruben Maria Soriquez
‘With all this beauty that surrounds you, it is only natural that you contribute to that beauty, especially through the arts.’
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‘With all this beauty that surrounds you, it is only natural that you contribute to that beauty, especially through the arts.’
In a recent conversation with Filipino-Italian A Secret in Prague actor Ruben Maria Soriquez, he candidly explained why most Italians are drawn to the arts.
“There is truth to the saying la vita è bella in Italy because everything around you is a thing of beauty,” Soriquez said. “The culture in Italy is not only preserved but fiercely protected. The old houses, cathedrals, churches, courtyards, and so much more. The manner of food preparation is beautiful. The finished dishes, you devour because they are aesthetically plated and delicious. Then there are the wines that come from postcard-perfect-looking vineyards. Plus the cheeses, too. Then all the men and women you know — family, friends, strangers walking on the streets — are beautiful. The laughter sounds beautiful. Even the music, especially opera, is the most beautiful theater form. And then all the paintings in museums, church ceilings and walls. So, with all this beauty that surrounds you, it is only natural that you contribute to that beauty, especially through the arts, whether it’s dance, drama, theater, or cinema.”
That is why, when Soriquez added another international recognition to his ever-growing list of achievements after winning an acting award in the US, it was indeed due to the fact that the beauty he is so accustomed to was his inspiration and reason.
Artistic quest
This quest to add more beauty to the world is evident in Soriquez’s artistry. Not only is he an actor, but he has also reinvented himself as a producer, screenwriter and musician. His acting talent gets international recognition with his Best Actor victory at the 22nd Accolade Global Competition in the United States for his performance in the sci-fi horror film The Mariana’s Web, where he also had co-writing credits.
In the film, Soriquez said: “I portrayed the character of Fosco, a reclusive farmer whose quiet existence is turned topsy-turvy because of a mysterious woman who made my simple life complicated and eventually dangerous.”
“I am grateful for the recognition,” said Soriquez. “I know just how difficult it is for independent films to break through on the international stage. It takes a lot to make the cut and gain entry.”
His recent win was not a first for Soriquez. He previously won Best Actor at the World Premieres Film Festival in 2015 and earned acting honors from film organizations in the United States, India and Indonesia for his performance in Of Sinners and Saints.
Prague tales
Soriquez currently portrays Viktor Valtrovi in the Enrique Gil- and Andrea Brillantes-led TV5 primetime drama A Secret in Prague.
“It’s so nice to work with Enrique again,” he said. “We used to work in Dolce Amore, where I played Papa Marchesa, the adoptive father of Liza Soberano’s character.
“Working with Enrique now is light and easy, very chill,” Soriquez added. “And Andrea is a true sweetheart. She has now become a real daughter to me. You know what? I have a little baby girl who looks exactly like her.”
Directing and music
What he misses, Soriquez said, is directing.
“It has been some time since I sat in the director’s chair. I want to do some directing again. I hope it happens pretty soon. There have been discussions about future directing projects, but nothing has been finalized.”
His busy schedule did not stop him from carrying on with another artistic and creative pursuit, which is music.
“In recent years, I have devoted more time to recording and releasing original music, producing pop, rock and Latin-inspired tracks on major streaming platforms,” Soriquez said. “I actually started as a musician before transitioning to acting and filmmaking.” His Sin Preguntas, Sin Mas album is available on leading music streaming platforms.
Soriquez, with his commitment to acting, directing, music, producing and writing, proves how la vita è bella has fueled his commitment, dedication and passion to create and care, making this world a truly beautiful one.
