Cristine Reyes stars in action-packed ‘Maria’
For the past 15 years, actress Cristine Reyes has done a lot of comedy, drama and a few horror movies. “Maria” is her big screen comeback after “Abay Babes.” In an interview with Film Combat Syndicate.com, the actress said: “It’s definitely the most challenging thing I’ve done in my career. I’m super proud of it…” She also narrates how VIVA Films gave her this project. “They felt strongly about the material and thought I’d be a good fit for the role. I guess they figured it would speak to me on many levels—as an actress, as a mother in real life and as a martial arts enthusiast. And they were correct. I loved the script when I read it.”
“Maria” follows the story of a former cartel assassin named Lily who fakes her own death after an unfulfilled mission that earns the wrath of her organization. She flees to a distant province where she completely transforms her life. Changing her name to Maria, she meets Bert, a respectable businessman who becomes her husband. They have a daughter named Mina. Maria’s peaceful life is cut short when the cartel learns of her whereabouts.
Reyes underwent rigorous training for her role, and remained unperturbed as seen in her Instagram stories showing the numerous bruises on her arms and legs.
”It’s about time to show the world that Filipino filmmakers can also do excellent action films,” said Reyes. “Even more exciting that these movies are being fronted by strong female characters. The world needs to know that Filipinas also kick butt!”
“Maria” opens in cinemas nationwide on March 27.