John Lloyd Cruz competes with Hollywood actors for international acting award

MANILA, Philippines — ABS-CBN actor John Lloyd Cruz, who is still on leave, has been nominated under the Best Supporting category for the film “Ang Babaeng Humayo” at the 15th International Cinephile Society awards.

Cruz is set to compete with American actors Willem Dafoe, famous for his character in “Spiderman,” Armie Hammer, also known as “The Long Ranger,” and Michael Stuhlbarg, who is tied with series “Boardwalk Empire,” as well as “Dunkirk” Irish actor Barry Keoghan and "BPM" French actor Arnaud Valois.

“Congratulations John Lloyd on your nomination under the Best Supporting category for ‘Ang Babaeng Humay’” in the 15th International Cinephile Society awards,” Star Magic announced on Twitter in January 23.

On his Instagram account, John Lloyd (@ekomsi) posted that never in his wildest dreams did he think that he will be nominated in the international awards.

“Wasak. ICS Awards never in my wildest dreams,” the versatile actor posted.

He added that when he read that his idol Daniel Day-Lewis has been nominated as Best Actor for the movie “Phantom Thread,” he felt that he already won.

“When I read Daniel Day-Lewis written in his category sabi ko uy panalo na ko.”

Lav Diaz’s revenge drama “Ang Babaeng Humayo” was also nominated for best adapted screenplay and best film not in the English language at the International Cinephile Society awards.

These nominations came almost two years after the film won the top prize at the 73rd Venice International Film Festival in 2016. 

John Lloyd, for his part, plays the role of Hollanda, a transvestite whom Horacia eventually takes under her wing.

There is still no word as to when John Lloyd will be back on the limelight. Reports said he and his girlfriend Ellen Adarna are preparing for their upcoming wedding, but this has been denied by Ellen’s best friend Beauty Gonzales.

Formed in 2003, the International Cinephile Society is an online group made up of approximately 100 accredited journalists, film scholars, historians, and other industry professionals who cover film festivals and events in five continents. Winners will be announced on February 4.