The mind of an Independent Actor

He is called The Independent Actor. Arnold Reyes has proven to all and sundry that he has what it takes to be called such. His “independent” filmography includes Condo, Huling Araw ng Linggo, Vendo, Pisay, Pera-Perahang Lata, Big Time, Adela and Imoral where he has controversial love scenes with Paolo Paraiso. But acting is not the only thing that Arnold does. He is a multi-faceted artist who writes, models, sings and acts. His roles are diverse — father, brother, teacher, lover, friend — always allowing him a range of infinite emotional possibilities. Arnold has appeared in commercials like Smart Telecommunications, McDonald’s, San Miguel Beer, Knorr Sinigang Mix, and Coca-Cola. In theater, he has done productions like Hamlet Redux, Romeo & Juliet, Florante at Laura, The Glass Menagerie, Noli Me Tangere: The Musical and Zsazsa Zaturnnah Ze Muzikal. Read on for more of Arnold.

What is your most memorable theater performance?

I just finished playing a Meranao in Ang Bayot, Ang Meranao, Ang Habal-habal, at Ang Nakababagot na Paghihintay sa Kanto ng Lanao, directed by Nick Olanka at the CCP Virgin Labfest 4. It was a memorable experience for me. I adopted a Meranao accent overnight and I darkened my skin at nagmukha akong dugyot for the first time on stage. A lot of people didn’t recognize me and it wasn’t just because of the makeup. I was literally somebody else on stage.  Kahit ako natawa sa itsura ko.

Would you shift into mainstream/commercial movies if given the chance? Why?

I am an actor and it doesn’t change whether I’m on celluloid or on stage. I see all my projects are good opportunities for me to gain knowledge. Every work that I do is a learning experience.

Who is your greatest acting influence?

When I was a child I told myself that I will be the next Christopher de Leon. Kakanood ko siguro ng mga pelikula nila. And out of curiosity, I ventured into acting, until I got serious with it. I also realized my dream to be an actor. Hindi talaga natin alam kung saan tayo dadalhin ng buhay, but I’m happy where it has brought me so far.

<!--[if supportFields]>xe "Your most memorable dialogue in theater or in film"<![endif]--><!--[if supportFields]><![endif]-->Your most memorable dialogue in theater or in film?

“Do something great.” From Floy Quintos’ and St. Louis Loves Dem Filipinos directed by Alex Cortez. Isinasabuhay ko ito everyday of my life.

Favorite role you have portrayed.

Kulas in Ang Huling Araw Ng Linggo directed by Nick Olanka. This was my first major role in an independent film. I got so nervous doing my scenes with Boots Anson-Roa. Because of Kulas, I am inspired to do more roles that portray strong characters — Mr. G in Pisay directed by Auraeus Solito. Like Mr. G, I would like to be an inspiration to the next generation of artists.

You have played a daring role in Imoral. How daring is daring to you?

To be daring is being able to do things you have not done in your lifetime. Pero kanya-kanya yan. May kilala nga ako, walang takot maghubad pero takot na takot gumawa ng sex scenes. But personally, I like to push myself. I like to get out of my comfort zone now and then.

How was it doing love scenes with Paolo Paraiso?

It was funny. If you were in the set you would think it was a comedy film.

Which actor and actress do you admire the most and why?

Daniel Day-Lewis. He always comes up with something new in his characterization — from My Left Foot to Last of the Mohicans to his latest film, There Will Be Blood. He just gives his all for the role. While you’re watching, you forget the actor. Marion Cotillard in La Vie En Rose. She’s like Daniel Day-Lewis. She made me believe that I was watching Edith Piaf. When I saw her on TV during the Oscars, I couldn’t believe that it was the same actress.

The best compliment you have received?

“Ikaw ba yun?” “Muslim ka ba talaga?” “Hindi ko alam na ikaw pala yung pinapanood ko!” Para sa akin, compliment yung hindi nila ako nakilala sa play o sa film na ginawa ko.

Are you afraid of failure?

If I am afraid of failure, I will not be where I am today.

Heaven or hell? Why?

It’s not for me to choose. To be honest, I do not live my life thinking about whether I will go to heaven or hell. What is important is I am good to myself and to other people. What is important is that I take care of my family, that I love my mother, and that I love my friends.