More promising 2014 for Alden Richards

CEBU, Philippines -  Then-newcomer Alden Richards capitalized on his good looks and raw talent to pursue a dream. And so he did—with a blitzkrieg of high-profile projects and prestigious motion picture nods, he elevated himself to leading man status barely three years later.

His meteoric rise in showbiz can be credited to early roles in GMA’s “Alakdana,” “My Beloved,” and “One True Love,” which raked in high ratings for his home network and attracted throngs of loyal supporters for the young actor.

In 2011, his breakout year, he earned nominations from PMPC Star Awards and Golden Screen Awards for his portrayal of a teenage boy in GMA Films’ psychological horror film “The Road.” One recognition after another laid the groundwork for even more stellar performances, making the Kapuso homegrown artist one of the most bankable young actors of his generation.

His trademark dimpled cheeks and boy-next-door features may have lent him a sweet and innocent appeal throughout his early days, but perhaps not for long.

In his new cinematic endeavour “10,000 Hours,” Alden portrays a tough-as-nails young cop whose role is pivotal to the central character played by lead star Robin Padilla.

“10,000 Hours” reaped majority of the awards in this year’s Metro Manila Film Festival (MMFF). The suspense-thriller, shot in several locations around the world, tells the story of a man “who has lived his life by the law and for the law” but is betrayed by the very law that he serves.

“[Robin’s character] went through several phases in life,” says Alden, who has appeared in four MMFF entries to date—“Ang Panday 2” in 2011; “Sosy Problems” and “Si Agimat, si Enteng Kabisote, at si Ako” in 2012; and currently, the action powerhouse “10,000 Hours.” “This film shows his journey that will serve as an inspiration to many.”

“I went through several stamina and gun-handling lessons for this movie,” reveals Alden, relating how he underwent intense physical training to prepare for his role. The actors were not provided stunt doubles, but instead were trained heavily by stuntmen. The use of guns and ammos also posed various occupational hazards, he says.

“While we were doing the scenes, I always had to ensure my safety, as well as the safety of my co-actors.”

For a young actor with great aspirations like Alden, the experience of working with a legitimate showbiz superstar like Robin helped him grasp the rudiments and stepping stones of success. He says he is thankful to have been personally handpicked by his idol, Robin, and director Joyce Bernal. “Now that I’ve gotten to know him (Robin), I’ve learned that he’s a genuinely nice person who is very devoted to his craft,” shares the young actor, holding Robin’s talent, dedication, and professionalism in high esteem. “I want to mature just like him.”

Still, very modestly, he admits to having had his fair share of nerves prior to filming, especially working alongside industry veterans. “I knew the credentials of Bb. Joyce Bernal. Her projects have been outstanding. I wanted to live up to her expectations. I just hope I did.”

Having both Robin and Direk Joyce to guide him helped him overcome his initial reservations. “Everything went smoothly. I became more at ease and confident with my work.”

Asked whether he sees his role in “10,000 Hours” as a springboard for a career in the action genre, he responds, “Why not? I have always wanted to star in an action film. Though my career path, for the moment, is leaned towards drama, I wouldn’t mind doing more action movies in the future.”

Ringing in the New Year

Alden has undeniably evolved into an artiste par excellence who exhibits versatility in acting, hosting, and performing. His amiable nature and sweet personality have endeared him both to colleagues and supporters.

Improvement is a factor that Alden will always welcome, and he considers everyday as an opportunity to learn and grow.

“I realized that part of being an actor is to get my emotions from past experiences. For every role that I portray, I want to reinvent myself. I would always study the role I am given and imbibe it. Learning to own your character has also been a key to this.”

In 2014, Alden wants to be visible in all media platforms and he is very much on his way to doing just that. In the first quarter alone, he is set to star in “Carmela,” Kapuso Primetime Queen Marian Rivera’s much-awaited drama comeback.

Alden has nothing but praises for the Kapuso royalty, with whom he has previously worked with in “My Beloved” that aired in 2012. “She is one of the most professional actresses I’ve worked with. At the back of my mind, I have to raise my level a notch higher. I may feel a little pressured to be at par with her in terms of acting, but I’m thankful that she makes everything so much easier for me.”

For the coming year, he also hopes to further his music career. Alden launched his debut album earlier this year, adding the title of “recording artist” to his numerous achievements in showbiz. “I am very blessed to be given the opportunity to have an album. If I can balance both acting and singing, I’ll take advantage of it,” he says ardently.

Alden will be ringing in the New Year together with fellow Kapuso artists as part of the GMA 2014 Countdown. “I am looking forward to 2014. I welcome all new experiences coming my way in the upcoming years.”

And his New Year’s resolution: “To be remarkable in every aspect of my life.”

But before embarking on an even more promising 2014, Alden plans to close his 2013 on a festive note—with the blessing of togetherness and the spirit of giving.

“When I was a kid, my notion of Christmas was just receiving gifts. But now that I have blessings of my own, Christmas has come to mean giving,” he says, stressing how he plans to share his blessings by celebrating Christmas with the less fortunate.

He also believes in the inherent simplicity of Christmas, saying that he prefers practicality over extravagance. “I always spend Christmas with my family—going to Mass, feasting on Noche Buena together, and exchanging presents. No gift can be more expensive than the love I offer them.” (PR)