SCENES FROM ‘Kung Paano Siya Nawala’ (Photos from ‘Kung Paano Siya Nawala’ official Facebook page)
JM De Guzman may have once been a "troubled actor," but he is back in harness.
He has been working non-stop since early this year, headlining the series "Araw Gabi," to be followed soon by a new film.
In an interview, JM said he couldn't help but be grateful for the second chance. The "failures" have made him appreciate all the opportunities given to him, the actor added.
"Whether it's small or big, I’ve learned to appreciate it. It's overwhelming to see and feel the support of many people," he said in Filipino.
JM admitted he still has insecurities especially with a lot of new young actors in the circuit.
"But I try to overcome it. I believe it is something I have to accept. I try to boost my confidence while having humility."
Actor-producer
JM stars in "Kung Paano Siya Nawala" with leading lady Rhian Ramos.
In it, Rhian is free-spirited Shana who meets Lio (JM), a man with face blindness, someone who could not recognize and remember faces. The condition poses a challenge as they try to build a relationship.
The film is from TBA Studio and it is directed by Joel Ruiz. Rhian and JM, apart from being actors, also serve as executive producers.
Rhian revealed she came upon the script last year and immediately fell in love with the story.
"That's why I decided to produce it. I believe in the story. So whether my investment comes back to me or not, I'll be happy. I'm glad I was able to do this film," she said.
"Kung Paano Siya Nawala" is not the usual romantic-comedy, Rhian noted, explaining it tackles an "uncommon condition that is so relatable."
Joel shared the film is a collaboration among the three of them. Adding the "feels" to it is the theme song "Anino" performed by UDD.
Rhian would love to co-produce another film with JM.
"If I come across another good script, why not? I think JM and I really work well together. This is just the start of a good friendship."
'Former crush'
Working with JM is a sort of "dream come true" for Rhian as she had a crush on him back in high school.
"I'm not afraid to fall in love with him 'coz I already did," Rhian candidly confessed when asked she was “afraid” she might fall in love with JM.
According to the actress, she met a certain Juan Miguel de Guzman when she was 15 years old. Back then, she attended an event upon an invitation from her Tita who was with GMA Artist Center. JM happened to be there.
“But he looked so different. He was kalbo (bald), and he had hiphop outfit on. When I met him at that event, for two weeks straight, my notebook was filled with his name," she admitted.
Rhian said she told Joel about it.
(FROM LEFT): Director Joel Ruiz, Rhian Ramos, and JM de Guzman
"But I'm not sure if JM de Guzman and the Juan Miguel de Guzman that time is the same guy,” she said.
It was only after they finished the film that Rhian finally confessed her old crush on JM.
“It’s a full circle moment. So I admit it because it's in the past now," she quipped.
Rhian said JM is "the guy version of me."
"I'm really comfortable working with him. He's humble and I appreciate his authenticity," she said.
JM, on the other hand, described Rhian as a "very passionate actress."
"Kung Paano Siya Nawala" opens in cinemas on Nov. 14.