Malupiton eyes return of Dolphy, Babalu-style comedy in 1st lead role

MANILA, Philippines — Online sensation and comedian Malupiton is both excited and nervous about headlining his first movie, “He’s Dating A Boldstar,” in which he stars opposite actress and “Bubble Gang” regular Analyn Barro.

At the media conference for the sexy comedy directed by Niokz Arcega, Malupiton, whose real name is Joel Ravanera, admitted that he still finds it hard to believe that he now has a film of his own.

The comedian, who made his film debut in Jerald Napoles’ “Love, Ngo,” said he feels the pressure of being cast as a leading man but is proud of what they have accomplished with the movie.

“Nakakakaba na nakaka-excite. Gusto ko po maibalik ang comedy era nina Dolphy at Babalu. ‘Yung ganu’ng klase po ng comedy, ‘di ba?” he said.

“Nakaka-pressure din po kasi hindi ko alam kung bakit ako ang napili ni Direk Niokz maging leading man. Awa ni Lord nairaos ko naman, nagawa naman po namin,” he added.

Malupiton cited Dolphy, Babalu and Redford White, along with other iconic Filipino comedians, as his idols.

Arcega, meanwhile, said he hopes “He’s Dating A Boldstar” can help bring back the golden era of Filipino comedy.

The director recalled asking Malupiton if he knew Dolphy when he first contacted him about the project.

“Noong tinawagan ko siya, una ko agad tinanong kung kilala niya ba si Dolphy. Sabi niya, oo raw kaya sige, game, gawa tayo pelikula,” Arcega said.

He admitted that finding new comedians who could carry on the legacy of Dolphy, Babalu and Redford White had been a challenge.

“For the longest time akala ko hindi kami makakahanap. Ang hirap maka-discover ng mga new comedians kagaya nila,” he said.

In “He’s Dating A Boldstar,” Malupiton plays Jeboy, an ordinary hotel employee and aspiring singer who falls in love with Kit, a bold star portrayed by Barro.

The film also stars Dominic “Happy Friend” Biong, Joshua “Awut” Padigos, Kolokoys TV, Aleck Bovick, Leandro Baldemor and Rob Sy.

Produced by NKO Films, “He’s Dating A Boldstar” opens in cinemas nationwide on October 28.

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