PEDRO PENDUKO (2023)

PENDUKO: Filipino Superhero Adaptation To Set Sail At MMFF XLIX

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Jason Paul Laxamana’s new Epik Studios superhero adaptation, Penduko, is getting an audience soon as one of four titles to make it to the first cut for the upcoming 49th edition of the Metro Manila Film Festival.

Actor Matteo Guidicelli, who joined the fantasy action production back in 2019, stars in the title role alongside Cristine Reyes (Maria). Laxamana adapts Francisco V. Coching’s original Engkantos comic which took off in 1954.

Penduko hails from Sari Sari Network and sees Guidicelli as Pedro, a twenty year-old wimp from the U.S. who journeys to the Philippines following the death of his Father. While searching for his mother, he soon discovers a curse and evil forces destroying the town.

The new movie had been in development for years with a few other directors attached prior, and with James Reid set to star in the film before a spinal injury took him out of the production. Guidicelli will be the fourth and latest actor to portray the character for the big screen.

The 49th Metro Manila Film Festival runs from this December through January 2024.

Read more here.

Lee B. Golden III
filmcombatsyndicate@gmail.com | Web

Native New Yorker. Been writing for a long time now, and I enjoy what I do. Be nice to me!

Lee Golden

Native New Yorker. Been writing for a long time now, and I enjoy what I do. Be nice to me!

→ Lee Golden

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Avatar of Captain Barbell Captain Barbell Jul 18, 2023 #1

I don't think Matteo Guidicelli is the best choice for the role of Penduko. Some people believe he's only famous because he's married to Sarah Geronimo, a famous singer and actress. They also think he's more known for car racing than acting. His Italian accent might make it hard for him to speak Tagalog convincingly in the movie. So, there are doubts about whether he can do justice to the character and if he got the role because of his connections rather than his acting skills. Other actors might have been a better fit for the part.

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Avatar of Ang_Katinig Ang_Katinig Jul 18, 2023 #2

It's really sad to see that they keep choosing half-white actors to play characters like Pedro Penduko. This shows a problem in our society where people with lighter skin are often preferred over those with darker skin. It's like they think being light-skinned is better.

This kind of thinking comes from our history of being colonized, and it's not fair. It's not just about looks, but it also means some talented Filipino actors don't get a chance to play these roles that represent our culture.

We should change this and give more opportunities to actors with brown skin to play these characters. That way, we can break away from these old ways of thinking and have a more inclusive entertainment industry that truly represents all Filipinos.

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Avatar of Dark_Pinoy Dark_Pinoy Jul 18, 2023 #3

Penduko's adaptation of Francisco V. Coching's comic hits all the right notes for me. It's fascinating to see how this classic Filipino superhero tale has evolved over the years and now finds its place in the modern film landscape. I'm already counting down the days until its release!I'm a big fan of fantasy and supernatural elements, and this movie promises to deliver just that.

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Avatar of Tampalpuke Tampalpuke Jul 18, 2023 #4

Matteo Guidicelli is a half-Italian actor who served in the Philippine Army. Even though he has a mixed background, it's cool that he decided to join the army and help the Philippines. This experience might have made him better at acting and taking on challenging roles like Penduko. So, let's give him a chance and see how he does in the movie!His service in the army demonstrates that he is not only an actor but also a responsible citizen who is willing to give back to the community. This experience may have shaped him as a person and could bring a unique perspective to his portrayal of Pedro in Penduko.

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Avatar of Leech Woman Leech Woman Jul 18, 2023 #5

Serving in the army is impressive, but it doesn't guarantee he's right for the role. Acting and military service are different skills. We should focus on his acting ability, not just his background.

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Avatar of Jaspreet Jaspreet Aug 11, 2023 #6

I completely agree. While military service is commendable, the most important factor here should be his acting skills and suitability for the role.

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Avatar of eldavis eldavis Aug 12, 2023 #7

The Filipino films are gradually making waves, i have watched a few and i must say though they are not up to standard like that of the Hollywood movies but they had wonderful plots that even Hollywood movies lack. So having a super hero adaptation would be awesome.

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