After the massive success of Unang Tikim, VMX proudly presents the next erotic drama to hit the big screen – “Celestina: Burlesk Dancer”. Starring Yen Durano and Christine Bermas, this movie depicts the story of a mother who becomes a sexy dancer to be able to raise her child while the country is facing one of the most trying times in history. This film is a great collaboration of National Artist Ricky Lee and award-winning director McArthur C. Alejandre.
Set in the 1940s, when the Philippines is under Japanese control, Celestina a.ka. Tinay (Yen Durano) is also fighting her own battles. She is married to Cornelio (Sid Lucero), a former haciendero who is now reduced to being a drunkard, gambler and womanizer. Tinay works hard to provide for their family and tries to bear all the sufferings, but she’s had enough when she catches Cornelio with another woman.
Taking their young son, Joaquin, Tinay goes to build a new life for them in another town. There, she meets Rosalinda (Christine Bermas) who helps her land a job as a burlesk dancer in a theater owned by Estong (Allan Paule). Stripping and dancing like their lives depend on it, Tinay becomes a sensation. She catches the eye of Leandro (Arron Villaflor), who seems to be a decent man.
In no time, Leandro expresses his feelings for Tinay, and her heart is open to love again. But, just as things are starting to look up, Tinay discovers that Leandro is a member of Hukbalahap (Hukbong Bayan Laban sa Hapon), and he’s requiring something from her. Making things more complicated is Cornelio, who is now on the side of the Japanese, wants her back.
In these troubled times, see how Tinay will cope with all that’s going on within her circle and all around the nation. She must again make a wise decision for the sake of her son whose life might be put in danger. If only Tinay can dance her woes away.
“Celestina: Burlesk” opens in cinemas nationwide on December 4, 2024.
