Annaliza’s curtain call

MANILA, Philippines - The ABS-CBN management would have wanted Annaliza to run on-air until end of the year. This was what business unit head director Ruel Bayani revealed during the presscon for the drama series but he declined with a valid explanation. It was in November of last year when he finally decided for Annaliza to wrap up this month.

Annaliza is the Kapamilya remake of the original drama series of the same name which became a hit in the ‘80s. Eleven-year-old Andrea Brillantes now plays the title role originated by Julie Vega. The remake began airing in May 2013.

According to direk Ruel, it would be a daunting task for the writers to stretch the story without making it appear “on extended run.” But this is not to say that today’s pool of writers has a limited creative ability, considering that the original version lasted for five years. What direk Ruel’s main concern is the mindset of today’s generation.

“I don’t think stretching the story is a gauge for creative excellence kasi pwede naman magandang hanggang doon na lang ang show at mag-iwan ito ng alaala sa mga tao. If you notice, the conflict of the story usually comes from the antagonists, especially before, where televiewers had seemingly accepted to resolve it only after, like, four years. But today’s (approach) is much different siguro kung pinatagal pa na si Carlo (Aquino) at Kaye (Abad) na di pa mahuli-huli, it would already look disgusting to the viewers. The story has to be fast-paced and exciting to keep the viewers’ interest.”

So, even if televiewers look forward to watching Annaliza day after day and episode after episode, the 10-month-old soap is coming to an end. Still, there seems to be a lot of questions popping up as to how it will end. Will Stella (Kaye) and Makoy (Carlo) be able to seek revenge against Annaliza (Andrea)?  How will Annaliza make it through the final ordeal?

Well, the answers are uncertain until its final night tomorrow.

What’s definite are the many lessons Andrea has learned from the show and her experience of working with some of today’s finest stars. The Kapamilya child star shared that her Tatay (Zanjoe Marudo)  reminds her to remain humble and to treat other people with kindness all the time. The show has taught her to be resilient, especially in difficult times.

“I am so happy for its success. This is my first lead role and I didn’t expect it will last for 10 months. Masaya din po ako na makatrabaho ang magagaling na artista dito,” Andrea said.

Andrea flashed a wide smile upon hearing praises for her impressive portrayal of her character Annaliza. In fact, Gil Soriano, the director of the original series, even tagged her as the next Judy Ann Santos. Those who are familiar with Andrea’s acting skills will agree that she is clearly showing signs that she could be one of the finest drama actresses in the future. Proof of this is her Best Child Performer award from the PMPC Star Awards for Television. It was during her speech when Andrea shared how some people would pick on her and tell her that she was not good enough to become a star.

She has proven them wrong. But Andrea has no plans of getting back at those bullies because according to her, “vengeance is not ours, it’s God’s. Minsan may mga tao po talaga na di ka magugustuhan.”

Asked about the actors whom she admires and wants to emulate when she grows up, Andrea replied, “Anne Curtis, Bea Alonzo, Kim Chiu and Judy Ann Santos. I look forward to the day where I can play as a mermaid, vampire, blind and as an action star.”

Direk Ruel, in the press release, stated, “She really has a big future ahead of her in showbiz. With her looks and great acting chops, she will definitely go far.”

And what is Andrea’s wish now that Annaliza is nearing its end?

“Sana po maging successful pa ang career ko, dumami pa ang nag-mamahal sa akin at dumami pa po ang projects ko.”

Andrea will star in the upcoming drama series titled Hawak Kamay with Piolo Pascual and Zaijian Jaranilla.