Barbie Forteza receives praise for her acting chops in ‘P77’

Barbie Forteza at the premiere night of “P77.” Photo: GMA Corporate Communications

Barbie Forteza drew praise for her performance in the psychological thriller “P77,” which had its advance premiere on Monday night. 

The premiere night, held at a mall in Quezon City, was a star-studded affair with Alden Richards, Jameson Blake, Bianca Umali, Elle Villanueva, Derrick Monasterio, Jessica Soho, and Atom Araullo, among others, in attendance.

After the screening, Forteza’s lead portrayal in the film was lauded by Blake, who called it a refreshing departure from her usual roles. 

“Good job! The emotions she showed in the movie were so genuine; it’s something everyone should see,” he told reporters. “It’s not the typical Barbie.” 

Richards, on the other hand, who previously worked with Forteza on “Pulang Araw,” also praised the actress’ dedication to her craft. 

“That’s what I love about Barbs,” he said. “She never delivers anything half-baked. When she takes on a role, she pours herself into it.” 

The cast of “P77” with director Derick Cabrido. Contributed photo.

Richards added that Forteza’s performance as Luna in “P77” stands apart from her past roles.

“You don’t see traces of Adelina here. This character is completely different, and everything seemed perfectly aligned for her in this film. Barbie is like fine wine; she just keeps getting better,” he said. 

Forteza then expressed that she was moved by the turnout and shared her gratitude to the people who attended. 

“I’m just overwhelmed,” she said. “The premiere was beautifully put together, and so many people came, even with the storm. I’m incredibly happy and grateful.” 

In “P77,” Forteza plays Luna, a cruise ship chambermaid who resigns to care for her ailing younger brother, Jonas (Euwenn Mikaell). After their mother mysteriously vanishes, the siblings take refuge in a seemingly abandoned condominium unit, which harbors sinister secrets. 

The film presents a mixture of quiet horror and a few jump scares as it offers a raw look at Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD).

Aside from Forteza and Mikaell, the film also stars screen veterans Gina Pareño, Jackie Lou Blanco, Carlos Siguion-Reyna, and JC Alcantara.

“P77” premieres in Philippine cinemas on July 30. /edv