John Arcenas resurrects an OPM legend in biopic ‘IDOL: The April Boy Regino Story’
April Boy Regino, with his signature bandana and heartfelt songs, was more than just a singer for those who grew up in the ’90s and 2000s. He was a cultural icon, the voice of our heartaches and hopes, and a reminder of simpler times. His music played at every karaoke session, his dance moves were imitated in every schoolyard, and his songs were the soundtrack to countless Filipino love stories. Even today, his music evokes a sense of nostalgia, transporting us back to a time when life felt less complicated.
A Love Story in Every Sense
Idol: The April Boy Regino Story carries its strength is in its genuine heart. While much of its technical execution can still be improved, this biopic is, at its core, a beautiful love story. It’s a documentation of April Boy’s love for life, his family, his wife, and his faith.
REEL & REAL: Kate Yalung and John Arcenas | Madelyn and April Boy Regino | Photos courtesy of Armando Reyes
I found myself deeply moved by the portrayal of April Boy’s family life. Despite facing financial struggles, their home was filled with love and support. April Boy’s dedication to his family, his willingness to work abroad to improve their lives, and his unwavering love for his brothers, even when disagreements arose, were truly inspiring.
The film also beautifully captures the enduring love story between April Boy and his wife, Madelyn. Their journey through life’s challenges, their unwavering support for each other, and their deep bond are portrayed with remarkable authenticity. The chemistry between John Arcenas (playing April Boy) and Kate Yalung (playing Madelyn) is undeniable, adding another layer of emotional depth to the film.
And finally, the film explores April Boy’s faith and his relationship with God, a significant aspect of his life that provides strength and solace in the face of adversity.
Bridging Generations: April Boy Regino for a New Audience
One interesting question raised during a recent screening was about the film’s target audience. In an era dominated by artists like SB19, BINI, and Arthur Nery, would a film about April Boy Regino appeal to younger generations unfamiliar with his music?
John and Kate with actor-director Efren Reyes, Jr.
Marynette Gamboa, the film’s executive producer, addressed this with confidence. She said: “Clearly, we’ve always had in mind the fans of Idol April Boy Regino– or whatever remain of them. To be fair, these veteran adorers of ABR might not have heard of SB19, BINI, Arthur Nery… So, there’s no contest. To each his own taste…. and era…”
She went on to explain: “The fans of Idol April Boy have grown older and, maybe, richer, and probably have the capacity to buy cinema tickets.”
But Ms. Gamboa also saw the potential for the film to reach a wider audience: “Wouldn’t it be best if these young peeps get a chance to hear April Boy’s iconic songs and watch his life and love story?”
@randomrepublika Theater actor #JohnArcenas topbills the movie #IDOL that depicts OPM icon AprilBoyRegino’s journey to stardom and other personal acnedotes. Here, watch John’s cover of one of April Boy’s hits, DiKoKayangTanggapin. In cinemas this November 27, #IDOLTheAprilBoyReginoStory also stars KateYalung, DindoArroyo, TanyaGomez, and HeroBautista. Directed by #EfrenReyesJr 🎬 #showbizph #celebrityph
♬ original sound – randomrepublika – randomrepublika
“There’s a huge number of moviegoers in the demographics of different ages…. who knows we might be able to interest the younger set. They may get curious, in the same manner that an ancient song KISS ME, KISS ME of then child actor-singer Efren Montes got revived by Sarah Geronimo in a Korean film version of hers. Or this MAYBE THIS TIME which Sarah G’s cover ‘accidentally’ made it viral, thanks to some crazy dance moves of a high school-uniformed teener…”
Ms. Gamboa highlighted the film’s strengths and its potential to resonate with younger viewers: “So it’s also possible to revive the gold and platinum-awarded hit songs of Idol April Boy, once his biopic gets shown on November 27. By reintroducing the iconic songs, moves, and singing style of ABR, it’s likely that the younger fans will take to the iconic melodies and cheesy moves of IDOL… Strongest points of our film are its content — the family drama, the good traits of April Boy as a son, husband and father — kindness, and love for family, never get out of style, as proven by the Thai blockbuster HOW TO MAKE MILLIONS BEFORE GRANDMA DIES and Rebecca Chuaunsu’s acclaimed HER LOCKET.”
Ultimately, “Idol (The April Boy Regino Story)” is a celebration of a remarkable life and a reminder that love, in all its forms, is a timeless and powerful force.
The film opens in cinemas this November 27.
