The director of Star Cinema’s latest movie “I Do,” starring Erich Gonzales and Enchong Dee, is definitely a new force in Philippine Cinema. Not only is Veronica Velasco innovative but she has a mature perspective that has translated into her films that have made her a multi-awarded film director.

Formerly an indie film director, Veronica’s diverse storylines and versatility eventually led her to mainstream cinema. Her elegant narrative and utmost care in tackling non-formulaic plots made her the perfect choice to meg Star Cinema’s latest romantic-comedy “I Do,” which incidentally opens today.

To local movie buffs and indie movie followers, Veronica is not a newbie, having done four impressive films that have proven her gift as a storyteller. These films are “Princesa,” starring Romnick Sarmenta; “Last Supper Number 3,” “Maling Akala” featuring Victor Neri and Jodi Sta. Maria; and “Inang Yaya.”

Veronica received the Bronzo Cairo Award for “Inang Yaya,” sharing it with Pablo Biglang-Awa; the Balanghay Trophy Best Film for “Last Supper No. 3” at the Cinemalaya Film Festival (2009), and YCC Award, Best Screenplay for “Inang Yaya,” again shared with Pablo Biglang-Awa, at the Young Critics Circle (2007).

The lead stars of “I Do,” Enchong and Erich were impressed by their director, saying “nakaka-amaze siya. She is very focused.”

Also in the cast of “I Do” are Dennis Padilla, Janus del Prado, Nash Aguas, with the special participation of Pokwang and introducing Melai Cantiveros. Other stars are Ricardo Cepeda, Isay Alvarez, Jun Urbano, Aliza Pineda, Alwyn Uytingco, Jane Orteza, Allyson Lualhati, Che Ramos and Joyce So.

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Former councilor now indie producer

Former Quezon City Councilor Ariel E. Inton is now an indie film producer. His film outfit AEI Productions’ initial venture is a suspense thriller, “Ang Babae sa Sementeryo.” The indie film features a cast of well-known actors.

All the scenes of the movie were taken in a cemetery in San Jose del Monte where, in the story, mysterious killings were happening. “Ang Babae sa Sementeryo” is directed by Neal “Buboy” Tan whose latest work was “Tarima.”

Backing up Atty. Inton in this project is San Jose del Monte Mayor Reynaldo San Pedro.

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Toni reveals why she has radiant skin

Toni Gonzaga is one of the most popular female showbiz personalities we have today. She is seen on TV (where she has excelled in hosting) and in the movies.

Not only is Toni a popular and successful showbiz personality, she is also a sought-after product endorser. She, along with fellow ABS-CBN star Valerie Concepcion, endorses Placenta Soap. She says she owes her clear skin to Placenta Soap.

Placenta Soap is manufactured by UK Derm Pharma, a skin care company that has been dedicated on skin beautification for the past two decades.

By the way, Toni is the female lead star in the Kapamilya network’s new series “Kokey@Ako.”

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Tidbits: Happy b-day greetings for Sept. 29, go to Eggie Apostol, Mrs. Baby Fortuna, Ng Tam Meng, Hans Sy, Boysie Villavicencio, Lally Aldeguer, Marie Dimapilis, Melissa Cuevas, Philip L. Tan, Richard Ching, Debbie Enriquez, Rosalinda Ramos, Villa Granada-de Guia, Maribel Fernandez, Ginger Hazel Manansala, Michelle Grace Reyes and Jenna Rose Solosa…