Martin not afraid to be typecast

MANILA, Philippines - Hands down, Martin Escudero has the facial features of a matinee idol. However, when the right makeup is applied on his flawless face, he could stunningly be the younger version of Mrs. Doubtfire or Tootsie. And only sporting a baby tee and short shorts, Martin has transformed into a sward-speaking and hip-swaying Remington with a pinkish worldview. The mainstream-independent actor seems to know Remington like the palm of his hand and plays the character with much gusto and grace.

“No, I’m not playing a gay character,” clarifies Martin in a flaring red dress and a brunette long hair during the set visit for the Viva Films-MVP Pictures produced movie Moron 5 and the Crying Lady. “I’m just wearing a costume. No, I’m not afraid that I might be typecast. I don’t think it’s bad nowadays to be typecast (to a certain role). Magaling ka lang ang ibig sabihin nito. But I intend to do different roles (and explore new ones).” Showing on April 7 in theaters, Moron 5 and the Crying Lady also stars Luis Manzano, Marvin Agustin, Billy Crawford, John Lapus and DJ Durano.

Martin’s portrayal of Remington in the Lorna Tolentino movie parody, Zombadings 1: Patayin sa Syokot Si Remington has gifted him his first Best Actor award from the 10th Gawad Tanglaw Awards along with co-actor Kerbie Zamora going home with the Best Supporting trophy.

“I was very happy,” Martin recalls. “I felt like I was floating (on air). It was a different feeling. It’s my first (acting) award; it’s a big honor.”

In Zombadings, Martin experienced a few firsts: His first gay role, his first big screen kiss and his first man-to-man kiss. On top of that, it was also his first time to discover how an indie film works differently from a mainstream movie. Based on the look of his eye, Martin has started a love affair with indie filmmaking.

“I’m back to mainstream acting,” he says. “I also look forward to do another indie movie. I’m waiting for the next indie project. (In an indie movie,) I can do whatever I wish to do. I can work on my own ideas, my timing, my techniques and my gimmicks (to incorporate into my portrayal). There’s freedom (in approaching one’s character) in indie filmmaking. There are no limitations. With mainstream, the actor follows (strictly) the script.”

What the public remembers of Martin in Zombadings is a brave young actor with an open mind to play offbeat roles. He says he can do daring roles but his decision depends on the merits of the project. If the story calls for him to go nude, he will do it “for as long as it will make the movie beautiful.” As for his career, Martin and his manager discuss on how he envisions it. Their utmost concern is to always find the right project and the right timing for him. 

Speaking of timing, Martin devotes time in studying his character. The homey ambiance of his room allows him to contemplate about his new role and piece together its physical and emotional parts. 

“I study (the character) on my own,” he says. “I watch movies. I read and think (a lot). When I create a character, I stay in my room until I have finally created it. (The characterization) should come from the actor. It won’t be effective if it’s only taught. Ikaw mismo ang bumuo at mag-experiment nun at para malalaman mo kung tama ba o mali. I also go outside and observe people. I interact and mingle with them and see them closely. I try to figure out what are the things I will use for my character. From there, I start to create the character.” Martin also adds that listening to the director’s instructions is needed. “We have to compromise (and collaborate),” he says.

Where is acting in his life?

“This is my job, my (bread and butter) and my passion,” Martin answers. “Ito ang pagkatao ko. That’s why I’m serious with acting.”