A prominent figure in Philippine theater, Lhorvie Nuevo-Tadioan, has been announced as the leading actress in Sonny Calvento's latest cinematic endeavor, "Mother Maybe." This casting decision places her alongside previously confirmed star Anthony Jennings in what promises to be a compelling horror-comedy-drama production. The film, a collaborative effort between studios in the Philippines, Singapore, and Taiwan, delves into the unsettling reunion of a young man, Marco (played by Jennings), with his estranged mother, Minda (portrayed by Nuevo-Tadioan), only to uncover her terrifying nocturnal transformation into a monstrous being.
Nuevo-Tadioan's portrayal of Minda is anticipated to be a nuanced performance, characterized by her character's guarded emotional state and reserved communication style. The role demands an actress capable of conveying profound feelings and untold stories through subtle physical expressions and unspoken intensity, a skill that Nuevo-Tadioan has honed throughout her distinguished stage career. Her selection highlights her remarkable ability to command an audience's attention and communicate complex emotions without relying on dialogue, a talent explicitly recognized and praised by director Calvento. This supernatural narrative serves as an allegorical exploration of the experiences of overseas Filipino workers and the profound emotional impact of migration.
Calvento emphasized that Nuevo-Tadioan's extensive experience with Tanghalang Pilipino, the esteemed resident theater company of the Cultural Center of the Philippines, has uniquely prepared her for the demanding nature of this role. Her acclaimed performance in "Anak Datu," where she conveyed a complete character arc without a single line, solidified her reputation for emotional depth and physical control. The director lauded her inherent cinematic quality, noting how her subtle movements and deliberate pauses naturally contribute to the storytelling. Filming for "Mother Maybe" is set to recommence in February, building on the project's significant industry recognition, including development grants and awards from various international film festivals.
This film is poised to be a powerful testament to the resilience of the human spirit in the face of adversity and separation. It offers a poignant reflection on the sacrifices made by families, especially those touched by migration, and underscores the enduring strength found within the bonds of family, even when confronted with the supernatural. Through the lens of horror and drama, the narrative seeks to illuminate deeper truths about identity, belonging, and the lengths one goes to protect those they love, ultimately affirming the power of hope and understanding.