MANILA, Philippines – Actor and noontime show host Paolo Ballesteros on Thursday won the Best Actor award at the 2016 Tokyo International Film Festival.
Paolo was recognized as the Best Actor for his transgender woman character Trisha in the film “Die Beautiful.”
Competition, Award for Best Actor goes to Paolo Ballesteros in "Die Beautiful" directed by Jun Robles Lana. #TIFFJP pic.twitter.com/yGa4SM76wA
— ??????? TIFFJP (@tiff_site) November 3, 2016
Paolo, known for his makeup transformations, accepted the award in a gold sequin gown while cosplaying Hollywood actress Julia Roberts. He was accompanied on stage by the film director Jun Robles Lana.
During his acceptance speech, Paolo said he was surprised with the award and injected humor by saying he thought he won the “Best Actress” award. He also joked that he thought he would attend a red carpet event that is why he dressed up as the Hollywood actress.
Teary-eyed Paolo then thanked the film production team, director Lana and producer Perci Intalan for the award. He also dedicated his award to his family, managers, friends and colleagues at Eat Bulaga! He was also grateful to his fans in Manila and around the world, including his daughter and pets.
Paolo also thanked Liza Dino-Seguerra of the Film Development Council of the Philippines for her support as well as all the volunteers, staff and judges of the festival for accommodating them.
“To the man behind the film, Direk Jun Lana thank you so much for entrusting me Trisha's character,” Paolo said, adding that he is grateful to all of the staff for the gift of new friendship and for their professionalism.
“To all of you who came and watched our film, I will never forget you,” he added.
"Die Beautiful" is a film about the lead character Trisha who wishes to be dressed as a different celebrity on each night of her funeral despite being in a conservative Filipino-Chinese family. It earlier received the Audience Award in the same festival.
Paolo was then congratulated by his colleagues. He also posted a photo of the festival's Best Actress Lene Cecilia Sparrok for the film "Sami Blood."
Last October 25, Paolo also graced the red carpet of the film festival channeling another Hollywood actress, Angelina Jolie. He also previously made a makeup transformation of Jolie as the villain Maleficent.