David Licauco's moment of grace

April 22 ------ David Licauco's star has been steadily rising, especially through his standout roles in the critically acclaimed TV series "Maria Clara at Ibarra" and "Pulang Araw." But at the premiere of GMA Pictures' "Samahan ng Mga Makasalanan" just before the Holy Week, it was clear the Pambansang Ginoo had truly arrived. Held at Gateway Mall in Quezon City, the red-carpet event marked a high point in David's career, celebrating his first solo headliner as well as his first foray into comedy. 

In the film, directed by Benedict Mique, David portrays Deacon Sam, a young clergyman assigned to the sin-ridden town of Sto. Kristo. There, he forms the "Samahan ng mga Makasalanan," a support group of sorts where he gives his all to guide hesitant and seemingly hopeless townsfolk from pickpockets and gossips to swindlers — toward repentance and renewal. Also starring veteran actor Joel Torre, Sanya Lopez, Betong Sumaya, Buboy Villar, Chariz Solomon, and Liezel Lopez, the film opens in cinemas today, April 19, in time for Black Saturday. 

"This is a super timely movie [for the Holy Week and Easter] because it is centered around God," David shared with an adoring and excited crowd of supporters, including his fans and celebrity friends. "It's about change — turning your life around, even after you've lost your way. Just because you've made mistakes doesn't mean you can't change for the better anymore," he added in Filipino. 

"Samahan ng mga Makasalanan" definitely carries potential as a thought-provoking satire, and there's no question its intention was bold. But while the story would have benefited from tighter sequencing and less indulgence in loudness and exaggeration — there are other tools to making a satire — it, fortunately, finds its grounding in David's quiet, affecting performance. His eyes, expressive as ever, coupled with the subtlest tilt of his head, effectively deliver more emotion than most lines can manage. Ultimately, it is this natural restraint that not only holds the film together, but elevates it in parts. 

Before the screening, The T-Zone chanced upon David quietly on his phone in the semi-lit cinema. As always, he kept a low profile — calm, unassuming and never one to seek the spotlight. Still, he was warm and gracious when I briefly interrupted his downtime. When I mentioned how every role he has taken on in his young career always seems to land just right, he smiled, nodded humbly, and sincerely said how grateful he is to be where he is right now. 

Among David's VIP guests at the premiere was no less than the other half of the wildly successful "BarDa (Barbie and David) Love Team," Barbie Forteza, who delightfully dazzled in a red mini dress and fresh bob to support her partner. "I'm so excited for him, I'm so proud of him, and I know he really worked hard on this film," she said as her bubbly personality energized an already electric evening. As you can see on this spread, T-Zone caught photos of the man of the hour and his guest of honor sharing a warm hug and an unhurried moment before the film began — an unspoken testament to the closeness Barbie and David have developed on and off-screen. The kind of chemistry that keeps everyone watching and wishing for more moments like this for the two, both in real and real life. 

Overall, "Samahan ng mga Makasalanan" gave David Licauco the room he deserves to shine at this promising crossroads of his career not just as a leading man, but as an actor with presence, purpose, and the rare ability to be so effortless and unassuming, yet leave something that stays with you long after the credits roll. And if this night was any indication, he's only just begun his most graceful chapter yet. 

Source: manilatimes.net