Richard Gutierrez is aware of how hard it is to play Pinoy superhero Panday, the role
brought to life in four blockbuster movies by the late Fernando Poe, Jr., acknowledged as the King of Philippine movies.
The late FPJ’s “Panday” emerged as top grosser in the 1980 Metro Manila Film Festival, and was followed by three more successful installments: “Ang Pagbabalik ng Panday,” “Ang Panday Ikatlong Yugto,”
“Ang Panday: Ika-apat na Aklat.”
Senators Bong Revilla and Jinggoy Estrada also had their own versions, “Dugong Panday” in 1993 and “Hiwagang Panday” in 1998, respectively. Senator Bong did two more “Panday” projects, “Ang Panday”
(2009) and “Ang Panday 2” (2011) for GMA Films.
Other remakes followed suit in two different stations.
This year’s TV remake on the Kapatid network, however, will have much-awarded Mac Alejandre at the helm with the genius, Direk Carlo himself, acting as creative consultant of the project.
Viva and TV5’s “Panday” will be vastly different from the earlier incarnations. Direk Carlo says Flavio’s tale will be updated. First of all, his origin will be revealed. Viewers will discover that he is a foundling
and that he has a brother. Flavio will grow up under the guidance of a priest, while his brother will be raised by bad elements.
Next, will be seen living in the modern world and can pass thru a portal to return to the past. He will also get to romance three ladies to be played by Bangs Garcia, Sam Pinto and Jasmine Curtis-Smith.
His arch nemesis Lizardo will be played by Christopher de Leon, and he will have a lovable sidekick to be played by tyke Alonzo Muhlach.
Also part of “Ang Panday” are Empoy, Chicser’s Ranz Kyle, CJ Caparas and Ara Mina.
Richard’s fantaserye comeback starts Feb. 29 at 8:30 p.m. (Malaya)
