Veteran actor and director Michael de Mesa, a proud member of the renowned Eigenmann clan, recently shared high praise for the lead stars of “Green Bones,” GMA Pictures’ official entry to the 2024 Metro Manila Film Festival (MMFF).
Directed by award-winning filmmaker Zig Dulay, the film promises to be one of the most anticipated movies of the festival, following the success of “Firefly,” Dulay’s MMFF 2023 Best Picture.
De Mesa spoke highly of working with Dennis Trillo and Ruru Madrid, two of the most talented actors in the industry today. “Hindi na ako nagdalawang isip working with Dennis and Ruru before and nung sinabing directed by Zig Dulay, of course I know him because of ‘Firefly,’ and kicker ‘yung it was written by Ricky Lee,” De Mesa said.
He was particularly excited about working with the new generation of actors, especially Ruru, with whom he shared most of his scenes. “I enjoy working with the new breed. Most of my scenes was with Ruru…. Nakita ko gusto nyang mag grow as a serious actor. Nakita ko paano nya respetuhin ang craft. Sobra akong natuwa,” he added.
De Mesa also shared his admiration for Dennis Trillo, even though they didn’t share scenes in “Green Bones.” He fondly remembered their previous TV collaboration in “Sugo” and a particular conversation they had. “Si Dennis, although wala kaming eksena dito, we’ve worked on TV before. We were doing ‘Sugo’ and nag-uusap kami sa kotse before.”
He then recalled a moment when Trillo won his first award, admitting his initial doubts. “Meron akong in-admit sa kanya. Reluctant ako pero sabi ko, ‘Alam mo Dennis, nung nanalo ka — that was your first award — sabi ko, sino ba itong Dennis na ito, kabago bago nanalo ng award? Pinanood ko ang pelikula at kinain ko ang sinabi ko.”
Michael’s perspective on Dennis shifted after watching his performances, and he made it clear that he now sees the magic in his work. “Kanina lang after watching the trailer, nasabi ko, Dennis may magic ka…”
The actor expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to work with both Dennis and Ruru. “I’m proud and grateful napasama dito. I’m thankful I was able to work with two very, very passionate, intense and hungry actors who look for impactful projects.”
Another award-winning actor, the internationally renowned Ronnie Lazaro, who also stars in “Green Bones,” also commended his co-actors, saying, “Itong industriya natin ay lalaong titingkad dahil sa mga batang ito.”
“Green Bones” follows the story of Domingo Zamora (Dennis Trillo), a prisoner who is about to be released after serving time for the murder of his sister. However, his release is threatened by Xavier Gonzaga (Ruru Madrid), a prison guard who takes it upon himself to keep Zamora incarcerated.
Directed by Zig Dulay, the film also stars Wendell Ramos, Alessandra de Rossi, with special appearances from Iza Calzado and Nonie Buencamino. The film’s ensemble also includes Mikoy Morales, Royce Cabrera, Sofia Pablo, Sienna Stevens, Kylie Padilla, Pauline Mendoza, and Victor Neri.
Produced by GMA Pictures and GMA Public Affairs, “Green Bones” is co-produced with Brightburn Entertainment and distributed by Columbia Pictures. It is set for release in theaters on December 25.
