Director Chito S. Roño believes that Janella Salvador will be able to give justice to the character that will be enveloped in deep mystery.
The box-office director also said that viewers can anticipate a modern-day supervillain in "Mars Ravelo's Darna" which is set to premiere on Aug. 15. He teased: “We’re modernizing Valentina time. Totally kakaiba sa dating Valentina!”
“When she (Janella) auditioned, I was kinda impressed. Hindi ako na-disappoint sa audition niya,” Direk Chito shared. “I think she would do justice to the character of Valentina. Janella would not only be capable but also interesting to do that different kind of character.”
Janella, 24, admitted she was hesitant to audition for the role because she has not played a villain character in the past.
"This is my big project after giving birth. Sabi ko wala naman mawawala if I will play Valentina. Never pa akong naging villain or kontrabida. I read for the role in front of Direk Chito Rono and I got it. I'm very happy," Janella said.
Janella was holding a small snake when she joined the red carpet for Darna at the Dolphy Theater, ABS-CBN Compound in Quezon City recently.
"No. I'm not afraid of snakes," said Janella when asked if she was afraid of reptiles.
She added: "My pet snake talaga ako sa bahay. Si Valentino na lang yung natira. Nakatakas yung isang ahas ko."
Janella said she began to like snakes after she bagged the Valentina role.
"Noong nakuha ko yung role, mahilihg na talaga ako sa hayop. Sabi ko kung makukuha ko itong Valentina role, kukuha na ako ng ahas.," she said.