KathNiel in Cebu on Monday

Kathryn Bernardo and Daniel Padilla are not going to disappoint their countless Cebuano followers. To drum up support for their latest project, “The Hows of Us,” the popular tandem will visit Cebu on Monday. The movie will start showing on Aug. 29.

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I am fond of movies that are part of film festivals because of the perception that these are of high quality. There are times, however, that some producers succumb to the temptation to focus on the commercial aspect of the project, which is quite understandable as they are also businessmen.

I admit, I was one of those who felt happy when the indie format was adopted in the Metro Manila Film Festival (MMFF) the other year. Sadly, MMFF patrons, who got used to the previous format, were lukewarm in their response to the change and the film fest organizers were not patient enough to wait for the change in the patrons’ attitude.

In the recent Pista ng Pelikulang Pilipino, I made it a point to come to the city on the last day to watch whatever movie I can catch up. I was able to watch only two: “The Day After Valentine’s” and “Unli Life” due to conflict in the schedules of the other films.

I was amazed at the screenplay of the “The Day After Valentine’s.” It’s a given that acting-wise, Bela Padilla and JC Santos can be counted upon.

Sadly, “Unli Life” did not live up to my expectations, contrary to the pronouncements of some showbiz personalities.

I was impressed by Christian Bables’ delineation of the role of a gay friend of Paolo Ballesteros’ character in “Die Beautiful” in the 2016 MMFF.

That was why I looked forward to seeing him in a serious and straight role in “Signal Rock.” I will find ways to watch that movie in the near future.