Movie-television writer and drama novelist Gilda Olvidado never thought of crossing generations through her past written works. But that's exactly what has been happening for two years already following the television adaptations of her works Sinasamba Kita, Kung Mahawi Man Ang Ulap, My Only Love, Kaputol Ng Isang Awit, Babangon Ako't Dudurugin Kita, and Dapat Ka Bang Mahalin?
Just like the works of Pinoy legendary graphic novelists Carlo J. Caparas and Mars Ravelo, Olvidado's old gems are enjoying a fresh lease on life brought by renewed interest shown by GMA-7 and the viewing public. It is perhaps a tribute to the quality and uniqueness of these materials that they remain timeless amidst the passing of time.
The same could be said to Olvidado's Ina, Kasusuklaman Ba Kita? Considered already a classic in Philippine Cinema, the film was shown in 1985 and was bannered by Lorna Tolentino and the late Rita Gomez.
For its modern remake, real life mother-daughter tandem of Jean and Jennica Garcia will portray the lead roles of Alvina and Rizzi, respectively.
"Parang nate-tense siya [Jennica] actually sa project. Nate-tense siya sa pressure na yung ibinigay na tiwala, yung binigay na project. Kasi bida siya, e. Pero yung pressure na kaming dalawa, wala siyang ganun," said Jean, who's happy and nervous at the same time with the project.
Adding to the pressure on Jennica's young shoulder is the thought of assuming the role previously portrayed by award-winning actress Lorna Tolentino.
"Siyempre naiisip ko din po 'yon, na papel ni Ms. Lorna 'yong gagawin ko so baka po ikumpara ako. Pero gagawin ko po 'yong best ko para hindi ako mapahiya sa mga manunood. Malaking tulong din po na si mama ang kasama ko dito," Jennica told PEP (Philippine Entertainment Portal) during an interview last January 19.
Director Gil Tejada, however, is not bothered by any possible comparison from the original version. He explained that although they put utmost regard and loyalty to the original story, he wants his cast to inject their own interpretation to the roles assigned without having to copy their predecessors.
This afternoon soap opera tells the story of Alvina (Jean Garcia), a mother who has borne three children from different fathers. She struggles to keep them intact but through her own undoing and the hand of fate, Alvina remains detached from her own children. Can she find the fortitude to rebuild her family? Can she also find it in her heart to forgive herself before she can forgive the people around her?
The show's theme song is composed by world-renowned violinist Alfonso "Coke" Bolipata.
CLICK HERE to view photos of Ina, Kasusuklaman Ba Kita? cast members.