Why Angelica Panganiban chose 'UnMarry' for her comeback movie

Angelica Panganiban

Many people were surprised to see an Angelica Panganiban-starrer among this year's Metro Manila Film Festival---most especially the actress herself.

"Ang tagal kong pinag-pray kung anong meron ako ngayon," she said to that effect recently about family life away from the spotlight. "I've always said ang job ko bilang artista, alam kong pwede ko pa balikan pero yung time with them na lumilipas, hindi ko pwede habulin."

Yet when "UnMarry" was offered to her, Angelica just found herself contemplating comeback.

"'Sorry, di ko to matanggihan,'" she recalled telling her husband Gregg Homan. "Di ako makakatulog pag pinalagpas ko to, as in pagsisisihan ko."

From the title, it's easy to guess the movie is about annulment. On deeper level, though, Angelica said it's about loving self and finding your voice; about choosing freedom.

During the first three days of the shoot, the actress admitted being very heavily reliant on director Jeffrey Jeturian's guidance. But once Angelica got to know her character better, it was Jeffrey's turn to be amazed, saying she gave what could be an award-winning essay of the role.

"Syemore gusto ko yung comback ko, worth it," she said. "Hindi ko kayo bibiguin sa pelikulang ito.'

Another come-on for Angelica to accept 'UnMarry" are her co-stars particularly Eugene Domingo and Zanjoe Marudo. Aside from being members of mutual admiration club, Angelica and Zanjo go waaay back.

"Ang pinagkaiba, ngayon nagmamadali na kami pareho after work na umuwi bpara we can be with our (respective) families.

"Kung dati ang gawa naman ay gumala after a shoot, ngayon nagpapa-kitaan kami sa isa't-isa ng videos ng mga anak namin," she said. "Kung noon 'lost' kami (in life), ngayon may purpose na."

Asked if married viewers or couples going through a difficult time would be encouraged to seek annulment or give up on a relationship, Angelica said the movie is simply encouraging.

"Because hope begins when you choose yourself."

"UnMarry" opens Dec. 25 in cinemas nationwide.