Efren Reyes, the grandson of Severino Reyes (famous zarzuelista who created Lola Basyang), started as an actor in 1946, discovered by director Gregorio Fernandez. He starred in action pictures and costume movies, mostly for Premiere Productions.
Later, Efren branched out to directing and producing his own movies, among them Sa Ngalan ng Espada, Basta Pinoy, Larawan ng Buhay and Lola Basyang.
Gerardo de Leon, who would become a National Artist, directed several Efren Reyes starrers, including Ifugao which gave him Asia’s Best Actor award.
Hi son Efren Reyes Jr. followed in his footsteps. Reyes Jr.’s mother was Virginia Montes, Reyes Sr.’s leading lady in Bandido. — RKC