“Ang Panday” is not only an iconic character in Pinoy pop culture but it is also arguably one of most beloved Pinoy comic book heroes of all time as it embodies the ideals of truth and justice as well as the triumph of good over evil.
It should be noted that this is the very first full-length mainstream movie that Martin directed, produced, and starred on all at the same time.
“Mahirap po pala (It was hard)”, Martin mused when asked about his directing debut. Despite the challenges and not having the benefit of formal training in film direction, the Prince of Philippine TV Series used his experience in doing independent films, mainstream films, and TV series on working on the film.
Martin started his career as an actor in indie movies, most notably in the films of Brillante Mendoza, and crossed over to mainstream as he transitioned to television, appearing in a consistent string of ABS-CBN’s top-rating primetime teleseryes as well as to movies under a mammoth film outfit.
“Pangarap ko po talaga maging direktor (I have always dreamed of becoming a director)” he shares. “Kapag gusto mo ang ginagawa mo kahit gaano kahirap ine-enjoy mo ‘yong bawat moment nang ginagawa mo (When you love what you do, despite the challenges, you will enjoy every moment of it).”
His active involvement as creative consultant of FPJ’s Ang Probinsyano greatly forged his skill as a storyteller.
In this 2017 epic comeback of the iconic Pinoy superhero, Martin plays Flavio III – the grandson of the original Panday. His life suddenly turns upside down when he realizes that his bloodline is destined to save humanity from the evil doings of Panday’s immortal evil nemesis Lizardo (Jake Cuenca), who comes back from the world of darkness to once again bring havoc to the human race.
Conceptualizing the story, Martin had in mind his viewers, especially the younger generation to whom he wanted to introduce the legacy of the late Action King Fernando Poe Jr.
Witness how Flavio III will fulfill his destiny as he transforms from a simple, Tondo-born (an area in Manila known for its bustling community) man to the greatest Filipino hero of all time who will save his family and community from the clutches of the most terrifying evil man has ever known.
“Ang Panday” also stars Philippine Senator Lito Lapid, Eddie Garcia, Michael de Mesa, Gloria Romero, Jacklyn Jose, Dimples Romana, Jeric Raval, Jaime Fabregas, Julio Diaz, Mariel De Leon, Awra Briguela, Dennis Padilla, Carmi Martin, Albert Martinez, Agot Isidro, Ms. International 2017 Kylie Verzosa, Mccoy De Leon, Elisse Joson, and Jhong Hilario among many others. Meantime, teaming up for the first time for this film are CCM Film Productions, Star Cinema, and Viva Films.
Martin as Flavio III will once again stand up for what is good and just as he valiantly champions the plight of the poor and the oppressed in the movie “Ang Panday”.
