Actor and filmmaker Cesar Montano is set to direct and star in a sequel to the critically acclaimed 1999 film “Muro-Ami,” which was directed by the late Marilou Diaz-Abaya. Montano will reprise his role as Fredo, the ruthless captain of divers, and has even adopted a bald look to match the character’s appearance.
In a recent interview, Montano discussed what he learned from Diaz-Abaya, emphasizing the importance of sacrifice, dedication, and commitment when portraying a role. He also revealed some details about the upcoming film, which will be a combination of action, drama, and comedy, and will focus on how children are used in the distribution of illegal drugs to earn a living. Fredo will resurface from infamy to save the children from the drug lords.
The news of the “Muro-Ami” sequel has generated excitement among fans of the original film and Filipino cinema in general. The film industry has been hard hit by the COVID-19 pandemic, and the announcement of a new project from one of the industry’s stalwarts is a welcome development. The sequel will undoubtedly be a testament to the resilience and creativity of Filipino filmmakers and artists, who continue to produce exceptional work despite the challenges they face.
Montano is preparing for the role by following the same diet and workout regimen he did for the original film to ensure that Fredo remains lean and fit. In a lighthearted moment during the interview, Montano was asked if he would be open to having Sunshine Cruz as his love interest in the film, to which he replied that he would be game for it for the sake of art and old times’ sake.
The original “Muro-Ami” was a critical and commercial success, earning numerous awards and nominations, including Best Picture at the 1999 Metro Manila Film Festival. The film follows Fredo as he leads a group of divers in catching fish using a dangerous and destructive technique called “muro-ami,” which involves pounding the reef with rocks and sending frightened fish into nets. The sequel will undoubtedly have big shoes to fill, but with Montano’s dedication and Diaz-Abaya’s legacy, it is sure to be a film worth watching.
The news of the “Muro-Ami” sequel has generated excitement among fans of the original film and Filipino cinema in general. The film industry has been hard hit by the COVID-19 pandemic, and the announcement of a new project from one of the industry’s stalwarts is a welcome development. The sequel will undoubtedly be a testament to the resilience and creativity of Filipino filmmakers and artists, who continue to produce exceptional work despite the challenges they face.