ACTRESS Barbie Forteza is shedding her wholesome screen image as she takes on what she describes as her “wildest” and most mature role yet in Regal Entertainment’s upcoming film “Saving Cherry.”
In the movie, which opens in cinemas on Sept. 2, Forteza plays Cherry Valdez, a newlywed who discovers her husband’s infidelity immediately after their wedding, setting her on a journey of revenge, healing, and self-discovery with the support of her friends.
Forteza said portraying Cherry allowed her to explore a side of herself she had never shown on screen.
“She is the wildest woman I’ve ever portrayed. It was also the most freeing role I’ve done,” the actress said during the film’s media conference.
Initially surprised that Regal tapped her for the role, Forteza said she accepted the project out of gratitude for the studio’s confidence in her acting abilities and after consulting her management at Sparkle GMA.
The 29-year-old actress said she has been intentionally taking on more challenging roles following the success of “Maria Clara at Ibarra,” including projects such as “Pulang Araw,” “Until She Remembers,” and “Kontrabida Academy.”
Forteza clarified that she does not necessarily share her character’s views or experiences, including being cheated on, noting that “Saving Cherry” is purely a work of fiction.
The film also stars Mikee Quintos, Mika Salamanca, AC Bonifacio, Sassa Gurl, Khalil Ramos, and JC Alcantara. (Evangeline Valderrama © Philippine Daily Inquirer)
