Michael of all trades

Michael de Mesa is one of the very first actors to portray a homosexual on the local screen. That was a time when homosexuality was considered taboo, when the word “gender sensitivity” was yet unheard of, when talks about gays and lesbians would only be heard in whispers. Nobody encouraged him to be an actor, he says. He just wanted to do what his parents were doing. Michael comes from a family of “acting royalty.” Mom Rosemarie Gil, dad Eddie Mesa, siblings Mark Gil and Cherie Gil are recognized for their talent and versatility. And Michael is one of the few actors who can do lead and supporting roles and cross over from film to TV and theater. In his latest theater outing in Atlantis Productions’ Hairspray, (opening Nov. 14 at Star Theater) Michael portrays Edna Turnblad, played by John Travolta in the movie version. Read on.

What other talent would you like to have aside from music and acting and why?

I would like to be able to dance and paint. These are other mediums that would allow me to express myself.

In your opinion, what is the worst thing about being an actor? The best?

The worst thing is being in a fishbowl and dealing with the system. The best is the process in which the actor creates roles and builds characters.

Are you afraid of getting old?

Sometimes. Only because there are still many things I want to do for others and myself.

What was the best thing said about you?

That I am one of the few actors who can do lead and supporting roles and can cross over from film to TV and theater.

When do you consider ambition healthy?

When you do your best to achieve your goals without hurting anyone in the process.

What is the question you have been asked most often? And the question you hate most?

What is your dream role? Hiwalay na ba kayo ni Gina?

How well do you understand women?

Very well. Hehehe.

What childish thing do you still do as an adult?

Baby talk when I’m making lambing.

How do you pray?

Privately and sincerely to God through Jesus Christ.

If you were a movie or a play what would its title be?

“The best is yet to come!”

What was the best thing you did for love? The worst? Why?

The worst was being proud and possessive and selfish. The best was making a conscious effort to change that.

What color describes your life? Why?

Yellow. Because my future is bright.

How would you describe your state of mind?

Focused.

If you are Superman, who is your Superwoman?

That would be my Hana, Julie Christine Reyes.

What is your greatest fear?

That something bad will happen to my loved ones, especially, my children.

What makes you laugh?

Better yet, who makes me laugh? My close friend Paolo Contis.

Your greatest influence as an actor?

Inadvertently, my parents. Although they did not push me to be an actor, I just wanted to do what they did.

Who are your top and best film actors of all time?

Marlon Brando, Al Pacino, Johnny Depp, Daniel Day-Lewis, Mark Gil, Bembol Roco, Joel Torre, Vic Silayan, Jay Ilagan.

What is the most romantic place on earth for you and why?

The bedroom. Enough said.

The best gift you have ever received from a loved one?

Patience and understanding.

What role would you not play?

None.

Who is your favorite singer? Why? Your least favorite?

My dad because for me, he is the total performer. My least favorite are those who think they can sing.

If you were a tree, what would you be? Why?

An apple tree because I’m tempting and juicy. Hehehe.

What is your philosophy in life?

It’s a cliché, but you only live once so make the most of it.

Your biggest regret?

Not finishing school.

If you were gay, who would you wish for a boyfriend?

Sorry, but I really can’t imagine myself being gay.

If you were to confess only one sin to God, what would it be and why?

Well, that would be between me and God.

The most photogenic face in the world?

My good friend, Lea Salonga. She truly has a lovely face.

If you were a wild flower, what would you be and why?

A bashful mimosa, or what we all know as Makahiya. Because I am basically a shy person.

If you were a fictional character, who would you be? Why?

Garfield. Because I eat and sleep a lot.

Where do you think you would go? Heaven or hell? Why?

Heaven. Because I am saved by God’s grace through faith and not of my good works.

Who is the most beautiful person in the world and why?

My mom. Because she is beautiful inside and out.

Write your epitaph?

I think it should be written by my loved ones.

Thirty years from now, where are you and what are you doing?

I really don’t think that far ahead. Hopefully, still alive.