Julia Montes is stepping into a new era in her career with “Topakk,” an action-packed film that is part of this year’s 50th Metro Manila Film Festival (MMFF).
Julia, known for her dramatic performances, took a leap into the action genre — impressing everyone, including award-winning actress and producer Sylvia Sanchez – with her dedication to doing her own stunts.
At the recent press conference of “Topakk,” Julia was asked if she received pointers from partner Coco Martin, actor-director at the helm of primetime favorite “Batang Quiapo.”
“Actually, ‘yung turo nandun naman, ‘yung mga advices,” Julia shared. “Pero ang sarap kasi makatrabaho ng ganitong klaseng team. From the very start, talagang nakatutok sa amin… bawat galaw. And ang sarap din nung setup, mafi-feel niyo na as artista – kasi importante din sa amin ‘yung vibe.”
Julia expressed pride in the entire team’s effort and the quality of the film. “Lahat ng buong team namin, nakakatuwa. Kaya pag pinanood niyo to, nakakatuwa maging isang Pilipino na ito ‘yung produktong gawang atin. Lagi kong sinasabi sa mga interviews, pinapanood nga natin mga action sa ibang bansa, bakit hindi natin suportahan ‘yung sariling atin?”
Julia embraced her role wholeheartedly. During one particularly intense scene, she sustained a minor injury on her knee. The dedication she displayed did not go unnoticed, especially by Sylvia Sanchez, the actress-turned-producer behind “Topakk.” Sylvia, who was initially alarmed when she heard about Julia’s accident, could not stop praising her.
“Actually, wala ako sa set. Nalaman ko na lang na napako nga, kaya nataranta ako,” Sylvia admitted.
But her worries turned to admiration as she saw the final result of Julia’s hard work. “Mark my word, Julia ang bagong action star ng Nathan Studio. Meron na kaming follow-up for Julia. Yes, ikaw ang bagong action star ng Nathan Studio!”
For Julia, the experience was transformative. “I enjoy action sobra sobra,” she said with a smile, hinting that this may just be the beginning of her action-star journey.
“Topakk” is a gritty action thriller that tackles PTSD and trauma. Directed by Richard Somes, it stars award-winning actor-politician Arjo Atayde as a former special forces out to redeem himself by rescuing a woman haunted by a cartel. The “Topakk” also includes Paolo Paraiso, Maureen Mauricio, Cholo Barretto, Kokoy de Santos, Anna Feo, Enchong Dee, and Sid Lucero. It opens on December 25, along with the nine other official entries to the MMFF50.
