What makes a star? Think Charice, Says Direk Joey Reyes

CEBU, Philippines - In the cutthroat world of show business where every flaw and cellulite are hugely magnified, looks have always been of paramount importance. Often, those who break into superstardom even if wanting in the physical aspect did so because of their extraordinary talent and undeniable charisma.

Multi-awarded writer and film director Jose "Joey" Javier Reyes pointed out Charice Pempengco's unexpected surge from an underrated talent in her own country into an international chart-topper as a perfect example.

"I was one of her judges during 'Little Big Star'. Charice was just the third placer. And let's be honest, looks-wise, who would have thought?" said Direk Joey in a TV 5 presscon at the Marriott Hotel Cebu last Sunday.

It was back in 2005 when the young singer joined ABS-CBN's reality singing contest, where Sam Concepcion was declared the eventual winner. Eliminated after her first performance, Charice was later called back as a wildcard contender and eventually became a finalist. Although she was a consistent top scorer in the final rounds, she only finished third place.

"It was the combination of luck, timing, and all the right people who came to her life at the right time. But maaaring magaling siyang kumanta, pero for her to be taken in by Glee, then she must have some international appeal. And sometimes, we are the last to see that," added Direk Joey, one of the judges, or so-called "Starmaker" of the Kapatid network's upcoming artista search "Star Factor".

Direk Joey has been a veteran judge of such talent TV reality searches. Some of his award-winning screenplays and directorial jobs are "Batang PX", "Kutob" and "Kasal, Kasali, Kasalo." His most recent flick was the summer 2010 offering "Working Girls."

From his years of being in the industry, Direk Joey surmised that apart from looks and talent, an element of luck and destiny is also needed.

"Hindi kailangan nagniningning ang kagandahan ng isang tao o namumulaklak sa talento para maging matagumpay siya sa industriyang ito. There is an element of luck and destiny. But then it really helps if you have the looks, it helps if you have the talent. And it helps a lot more if you have both."