Third World Happy screened at SM

MANILA, Philippines - Sam Milby’s first Cinema One Originals movie Third World Happy will be seen in selected SM Theaters nationwide on May 25 to 31.

The story unfurls the simple life of a balikbayan named Wesley played by Sam who has left the Philippines and his girlfriend to pursue his dream of becoming a painter. Everything changes when he returns to attend a funeral and reunites with his friends. They help him shine some light on his struggles: To look at his loved one in the coffin, say his last goodbye, get on with his life and start chasing his dream again.

Sta. Maria’s role as Aylyn, Wesley’s former girlfriend, manifests strength of women in facing heartbreak and family challenges. Aylyn is a single mom working hard as a teacher for her 13-year-old son. As she meets Wesley again, she’ll receive the explanation she has always been wanting — why she was left behind by her beloved guy.

Third World Happy is directed and written by EJ Salcedo who produces, writes and directs short films, TV commercials, corporate and music videos.

Milby’s performance in the said film earned him a Best Actor nomination in the 34th Gawad Urian Awards of the Manunuri ng Pelikulang Pilipino. Sta. Maria earlier garnered a Best Supporting Actress trophy in the Cinema One Originals 2010 awards.

“This is a semi-autobiographical story. I combined homecoming and the stories of artists not being able to pursue their dreams to build the story of Third World Happy,” said Salcedo.

What will moviegoers learn from Third World Happy? Salcedo replied, “I wanted to tell this story to remind people that if they are given the chance to pursue their dreams, they should never waste it. Most people never get that chance.”

Sam’s portrayal as Wesley also got praises from film critiques of Cinefilipinas.blogspot.com “Milby doesn’t bare his abs but gets to effectively bare the angst of his character.”

Catch Third World Happy at SM North Edsa, SM Megamall, SM Manila, SM Fairview, SM. Sta. Mesa, SM Southmall, SM Marikina, SM Cebu and SM Iloilo. Sam will have a Fans Day on May 25, 3p.m. at SM North Edsa.