RD is Jose Simplicio Alba. RD are the initials of his parents, Ray and Disi. Born in Bohol and the eldest of five kids, his family moved to Philadelphia, USA when he was 11. His mom is a doctor. He studied drama in Alabama for four years then moved to to L.A. to major in film direction at L.A. Film School. His thesis film is “Morning Eve”, about a straight girl who falls in love with a gay guy. He came to Manila and directed some TV shows for ABS-CBN Cebu, like “Kapalaran” starring Chanda Romero in 2003. What is “Biktima” all about?
“It’s about what would you do if the love of your life who you thought has died suddenly comes back.” he says. “Cesar here is married to Angel, a TV reporter who’s assigned by her boss, Sunshine Cruz, to cover a dangerous assignment in a remote island. While there, Angel and her companions are ambushed by bandits and everyone is killed. Cesar never saw Angel again and he eventually falls for Angel’s best friend, Mercedes Cabral. But it turns out Angel was only held captive by the bandits inside a cave, along with some foreigners. It’s an American, played by Philip Anthony, who helps her escape. She returns to Cesar and learns he’s already with Mercedes.”
Why is the title “Biktima”, which has been used before? “I know. I was told it was used first by Vilma Santos and later by, Sharon Cuneta. I can’t think of a more apt title kasi everyone becomes a victim here and the story ends in tragedy. Cesar is very satisfied with the movie, also Malou Santos who got impressed she’s releasing it sa Star Cinema on September 19, then we’ll send it to Sundance Filmfest in the U.S.”
