Xian Lim prefers to be called a director, rather than actor

Xian Lim is proving himself to be the multi-hyphenate who is definitely more than a matinee idol, a host, a screenwriter, or a professional basketball player. During the media conference for his upcoming movie "Hello Universe," he admitted that being called a director brings him the "greatest thrill," more than being referred to as an actor.

"Syempre mas nakakakilig marinig ang direktor kasi yun talaga ang gusto kong gawin ever since nagsimula ako. And this is a story I always tell whenever I get to direct a project: noong 2009, when I acted in my very first Cinemalaya film na 'Two Funerals,' gustong gusto ko na talagang maging parte behind the camera. Mas kinikilig ako (kapag tinawag na direktor), sobrang gandang pakinggan," he noted.

("I am more excited when I hear the word director because it's what I really wanted to be since the very beginning. And this is a story I always tell whenever I get to direct a project: in 2009, when I acted in my very first Cinemalaya film called 'Two Funerals,' I already wanted to work behind the camera. Being called a director thrills me more, it's so beautiful to hear.")

"I can never depart from being an actor. It's in the heart. But having an opportunity to tell a story, to write, and to be part of every step of the filmmaking process is another kind of fulfillment together. Am looking forward to making more of these stories," Xian stressed.

The Viva Films-produced " Hello Universe" starring Janno Gibbs, Anjo Yllana and Benjie Paras, is Xian's first film set for major release in theaters on Jan. 25. His directorial debut "Tabon," back in 2019, was only limited to viewers of the Cinemalaya Film festival.

Xian also wrote the script for "Hello Universe" which reveals a side of him some fans don't know about - his gift for comedy. Of course, he tackles a subject which is very close to his heart, which is basketball. It will be recalled that Xian came to the Philippines from the US hoping to pursue a career as a hoopster, but showbiz lured him away.

In the movie, the male lead Ariel (played by Janno) is a man feeling miserable and regretting not being able to pursue his love for basketball. Until one day, when he is transported to an alternate universe through the genie powers of Jessie (played by Benjie). Viewers will be able to find out if the second chance makes Ariel happy, or he longs for his old life.

Looking at the trailer of "Hello Universe," one can tell that everyone had fun and the atmosphere was light and easy during the shooting of the film.

Xian only had good words for the wacky tandem of Janno and Anjo who were last seen together in the GMA TV show "Ober Da Bakod" 25 years ago. At this point, Xian shared that it is his "cherished dream" to direct more of the veteran actors like Christopher De Leon, National Artist Nora Aunor and Vilma Santos who he considers "the pillars of the movie industry."

He revealed that he already has a few plots and storylines for his dream movie and he has been actively pitching with his home studio.

"Halos every month nangungulit ako. May mga screenplay na ako na binigay sa Viva, palagi akong nagpi-pitch. Panalangin ko yun," Xian remarked.

(''I am following up almost every month. I already gave Viva several screenplays and am always pitching. It is my fervent prayer.")

As a beginning director, Xian said he is open to every possibility, with every genre. He can even explore directing for Vivamax.

His only hesitation is directing his girlfriend of 10 years, Star Magic artist Kim Chiu.

"Kim has this strong imagination and vision, especially when she's acting. She knows what she wants so that will be a challenge for me," he admitted.

Xian added that a love story would naturally be the perfect vehicle for him and Kim.

"As an actor and director, of course I would be the first choice as her leading man but there's also nothing wrong with having another leading man so I can focus more on directing her," he pointed out.

"Kim and I have already matured in our relationship. For example, we can bear being partnered with other people or having kissing scenes with others. We understand that it's all part of our work as artists," he replied.