Being the son of two great actors can be both a blessing and a curse. And that's exactly what Geoff Eigenmann, son of award-winning actors Gina Alajar and Michael de Mesa, had to deal with after the primetime series, Rosalinda, ended.
While the TV series provided Geoff and and his leading lady Carla Abellana a good vehicle to launch their loveteam, the project made the pair vulnerable to criticism about their performance.
Geoff acknowledges his limitations seriously but at the same time takes a positive outlook.
"As an actor and person, you're always learning din naman, you're always growing. Marami pa talaga akong dapat matutunan. I wouldn't mind taking classes under my mom or with other people para makuha ko rin 'yong ideas nila," Geoff told PEP (Philippine Entertainment Portal) last January 21, during a lunch interview at Aresi's restaurant in Tomas Morato, Quezon City.
He takes a defiant stance against criticisms in general, saying, "Sige, say anything you want. I'll just prove you wrong in the end."
ASKING MOM'S OPINION. Soliciting suggestions from his mother is not a big problem. Geoff revealed Gina's enthusiasm in discussing every subject dealing with acting and the necessary mindset in portraying a character.
"As much as possible, ayoko, since I would rather tackle things on my own," replied Geoff with a grin when asked if he regularly consults his mother for advice.
"Pero my mom kasi is very hands on and metikulosa rin. Kunwari kagabi nanood siya ng The Last Prince [primetime fantasy series where Geoff and Carla have special roles] 'tapos may hindi siya nagustuhan, lalapit agad 'yan and sasabihin niya kung anong opinion niya. 'Pag may bagong script na dumating or eksena na hindi ko alam, I always approach her kung may idea siya or tips."
Geoff mentioned his desire to take on offbeat roles, like those of his parents and brothers, which are far from his usual clean-cut characters.
His matinee idol image won't stand in the way, said Geoff: "Any dark role, challenge 'yan, e. No matter how deep or light the character may be, how you portray that role is still your own take... anything that goes deep into the mind and heart, something that really touches you, why not."