Photo courtesy of Salvi Asis
Actress Barbie Forteza admits she feels a wave of nerves upon learning she would share significant scenes with industry icon Charo Santos-Concio in the drama film Until She Remembers.
During the film’s press conference in Quezon City on Feb. 11, Forteza says the thought of acting opposite Santos immediately raises the stakes for her. She explains that any young performer who takes her craft seriously would naturally feel the pressure of working alongside someone with Santos’ stature and legacy in Philippine cinema and television.
Forteza recalls their first story conference under Center Stage Productions, describing how Santos was the last to arrive. Seeing the veteran actress walk in makes the moment suddenly real for her. She says she reminds herself to stay composed and focus on being a professional co-actor, even as she cannot resist asking for a photo — partly because her mother specifically tells her not to miss that chance.
In the film, Forteza portrays Angel, a 16-year-old high school student navigating personal struggles. The story unfolds through Angel’s perspective as she attempts to reunite her grandmother with the latter’s first love — a woman from her past — placing themes of memory, identity and acceptance at the center of the narrative.
Despite her initial intimidation, Forteza says building rapport with Santos proves surprisingly smooth. She shares a dressing room with the veteran actress and describes her as warm, generous and approachable. Casual conversations, she notes, help deepen their connection, making it easier to establish an authentic grandmother-granddaughter dynamic onscreen.
Forteza also credits multi-awarded filmmaker Brillante Mendoza for fostering camaraderie among the cast. She says Mendoza encourages everyone to eat together during breaks, creating space for personal conversations beyond rehearsals and takes. The practice, she adds, allows her to understand her co-actors more deeply outside the confines of their roles.
Until She Remembers is produced by Solar Studios Inc. and Center Stage Productions, with Wilson Tieng serving as executive producer. Written and directed by Mendoza, the film opens in cinemas nationwide on Feb. 25.