McArthur C. Alejandre has made a significant impact on Philippine cinema and television the last 30 years.
He is known for his distinct casting method, among others.
In his view, the most effective approach is to combine rookies with veterans in an environment where "creative freedom" is encouraged.
He believes that it often results in a stellar performance for both.
He continues the practice giving opportunities to budding stars of Vivamax.
Alejandre cited his latest film "Call Me Alma," written by National Artist Ricky Lee, as an example, highlighting the chemistry between Jaclyn Jose and Azi Acosta, who portrayed mother and daughter, respectively, in the film.
The narrative centers on a high-end bar girl reuniting with her long-lost ailing mother, who had also worked as a prostitute.
"Sa mga pelikula, I try to make sure na yung new actors are surrounded by high competent co-actors. Kasi mahalaga yan e," said Alejandre.
"Bago mag-umpisa, we have to position na in a way lalabas na magaling na magaling si Jaclyn as expected pero hindi siya (si Azi) pwedeng maiwan."
When asked about Jose's response to her role in "Call Me Alma," Alejandre revealed that she was actually reminded of her character Myrna in Chito S. Roño's 1984 film "Private Show."
He remembered Jose telling Acosta: "'Alam mo nung nag-umpisa ako ginawa ko yung 'Private Show.' Grabe yung in terms of exposure pero kinailangan ko siyang gawin kasi hindi ako makatulog mula ng mabasa ko yung script. Kasi ang ganda-ganda ng role.'"
Alejandre has nothing but praises for Jose in regards to her relationship with Acosta.
"Mabait siya kay Azi from the very start. She makes Azi feel artista," he said.
Regarding her sharing the screen with Jose, Acosta expressed immense gratitude, considering it a "privilege."
"I fee like it's an achievement kasi idol ko po talaga si Ms. Jaclyn kahit before pa po ako mag-start mag-artista. Siya na talaga yung ni-lo-look up ko," she said.
"And nakaka-overwhelm po siyempre na habang nasa set kami nakaka-work ko siya. Tapos binibigyan niya din po ako ng tips sa pag-arte."
One important lesson she gleaned from Jose is the value of consistency in everything.
"Sa lahat ng pelikulang ginagawa, hindi dapat namimili," said she.
Acosta is confident that she can also achieve the level of success that Jose has attained.
"Nakikita ko po yung sarili ko na ma-reach din yung na-reach niya, yun naman po ang goal. And bago po ako nag-simula iniisip ko na lahat ng gagawin ko. Kaya unti-unti ng na tse-check ang bucket list ko," she proudly shared.