Shalanie De Vera Explains Why She Accepted the Latina Role

Why She Accepted the Latina Role

Latina Role: Shalanie De Vera Accepted It

Shalanie De Vera discussing her character and the complexity of her Latina role

The Latina role became a big step for Viva actress Shalanie De Vera. Initially, the part stood out to her because of its good story. In fact, it had real depth. She said these things matter more than what people think or any bad stigma.

During a recent interview, Shalanie De Vera shared why she accepted the Latina role. Ultimately, she loved the script. Her close bond with the character, Katarina, was the main reason for her choice.

Indeed, Katarina stood out fast because she has many layers. For instance, she shows different sides of herself. This depends entirely on the people around her.

“What resonated with me was how the film shows different versions of Katarina depending on who she is with,” De Vera said. “As people, we’re not just one thing. We show different parts of ourselves in different relationships and situations.”

Furthermore, she noted that Katarina’s journey felt very real. This is because it shows how people grow and change in life. Consequently, this deep bond made her glad to take the project.

Choosing the Complex Latina Role

To begin with, the actress took the project because she saw true value in the story and the character arc.

However, she believes that audiences often judge films way too fast. For her, good storytelling is always the most important part of any new project.

Shalanie De Vera sharing personal insights during a media interview

“What matters most is how the story is told and what it wants to say,” she explained.

In addition, she said that films can explore many sides of human life. These include relationships, identity, and personal growth.

Pushing Back Against Simple Labels

Above all, the Viva actress hopes that this Latina role helps people look past simple labels.

As written, Katarina is confident, smart, vulnerable, and independent. Therefore, all these different traits exist together in her character.

Shalanie De Vera on breaking industry stereotypes

“We can be soft, strong, private, bold, thoughtful, and smart at the same time,” De Vera said.

As an artist, she wants to show women as complex people. Luckily, the film lets her do that without old stereotypes.

Taking the Next Step in Her Acting Journey

Undeniably, this project is a very important step in her acting career. Moreover, it shows her interest in deep, meaningful stories.

As a result, she views hard roles like this as great chances to grow. They help her do better acting work.

Storytelling Stays the Main Focus

Meanwhile, Shalanie De Vera notes that stories should always be judged as a whole.

Behind-the-scenes film production still

Unfortunately, some viewers only look at small, single scenes. By doing so, they miss the real point of the movie.

Ultimately, good storytelling makes people think. The film highlights this type of narrative.

In addition to this, she believes films can start big chats about love, identity, and human bonds.

Industry Reaction to the Latina Role

Currently, mature films are still a hot topic in the movie world.

For example, in a chat with Inquirer Entertainment, actors spoke about the stigma of adult films. Specifically, they asked people to judge films just on the story and acting quality.

Naturally, Shalanie De Vera feels the same way. She believes the Latina role tells a deep story that goes way past first looks.

Setting Clear Boundaries on Set

Furthermore, the actress said that being professional matters a lot in every job.

For instance, before she took the part, she talked about rules and boundaries with the team. Consequently, this open chat helped her feel safe and ready.

“Preparation and communication are very important to me,” she said.

Following this thought, she added that trust is key to making any good movie.

What She Learned From the Latina Role

Most importantly, the experience taught her not to judge people too fast.

Through this work, she found out that people are often deeper than they look at first.

“People are always deeper than the labels we give them,” she said.

Ultimately, this lesson helped her open her mind in life and work.

What Comes Next for the Actress

Looking forward, Shalanie De Vera is open to doing similar films later on.

At the same time, she also wants to try new genres and face new tests.

After all, each project is a new chance to grow as an actress. This character is just one part of that journey.

Therefore, she plans to focus on good scripts and deep characters in her next roles.

“As an actress, I want to keep growing and exploring different kinds of stories. In the end, it always comes down to the quality of the story,” she said.

Related Reading: Explore more celebrity interviews and entertainment features in our Entertainment section.

Knock Three Times film cast | Julia Barretto, Charo Santos, Christopher De Leon horror movie

Knock Three Times film cast led by Julia Barretto, Charo Santos, and Christopher De Leon in Jerrold Tarog’s new horror movie exploring mystery and suspense.

Knock Three Times film cast poster featuring Julia Barretto, Charo Santos, and Christopher De LeonCreaZion Studios has officially announced the main cast of its upcoming horror film “Knock Three Times,” directed by award-winning filmmaker Jerrold Tarog.

The announcement reveals a strong cast led by Julia Barretto, Charo Santos-Concio, Christopher de Leon, and Tony Labrusca. In fact, this group brings together some of the most recognized names in Philippine cinema.

Jerrold Tarog Directs the Knock Three Times Horror Film Cast

“Knock Three Times” marks another genre project from Jerrold Tarog, a filmmaker known for his work on the Bayaniverse films such as Heneral Luna and Goyo: Ang Batang Heneral.

Jerrold Tarog Knock Three Times horror movie pitch at Asian TV ForumFirst, CreaZion Studios presented the project at international industry events, including the Asian TV Forum in Singapore. As a result, it gained early attention there and became a finalist in the EST N8 Horror Pitch competition.

Furthermore, this early recognition signals strong interest from both local and international film markets.

Knock Three Times Film Story Inspired by Filipino Urban Folklore

The film reportedly takes its story from Filipino urban legends. In particular, it focuses on a chilling supernatural concept involving an antique mirror.

For example, the story follows a young woman who returns home after rehabilitation, only to discover that her mother has fallen under the spell of an evil antique mirror. The narrative also connects to folklore surrounding rituals involving mirrors, candles, and the mysterious act of “three knocks.”

As a result, this foundation suggests a blend of psychological horror and cultural mythology, making this Filipino horror movie stand out.

Cast Brings Strong Horror Experience

Notably, the cast features actors already familiar with the horror and thriller genre:

Julia Barretto in the Knock Three Times Film Cast

Known for her roles in horror and thriller projects such as Block Z and Bahay na Pula, Barretto continues to build her career in horror storytelling.

Charo Santos-Concio’s Horror Legacy

A veteran actress with deep roots in Philippine cinema, she previously starred in iconic horror and psychological films such as Itim, Kisapmata, and Eerie.

Christopher de Leon Brings Suspense Credentials

One of the country’s most respected actors, de Leon has also appeared in horror and suspense films including Tragic Theater.

Tony Labrusca Joins the Ensemble

Meanwhile, Labrusca has starred in psychological horror projects such as ML and U-Turn, adding younger energy to the cast.

Knock Three Times Studio and Production Statement

CreaZion Studios emphasized that the film shows its commitment to bold, filmmaker-driven projects.

According to CreaZion president Anter “RJ” Agustin, the team aims to create films that are deeply Filipino at heart but still appeal to global audiences.

Additionally, the studio highlighted that assembling this cast marks an important step forward in the film’s development.

Production Updates Still Limited

As of now, the studio has not yet announced key details such as:

  • full production schedule
  • additional cast members
  • official release date

However, fans can expect more updates in the coming months as the film moves further into production.

Why the Knock Three Times Film Is Getting Attention

The film is already generating buzz because of:

  • A high-profile director in Jerrold Tarog
  • A rare mix of veteran and younger stars
  • Strong horror and psychological themes
  • Use of Filipino folklore as the story’s foundation
  • Early international festival interest

Final Thoughts on the Upcoming Horror Movie

Finally, “Knock Three Times” is shaping up to be one of the more anticipated Filipino horror films in development. With a strong creative team and a culturally rooted story, it has the potential to stand out in both local and international markets.

The studio will provide more official updates soon as production continues.

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