Actor-businessman RS Francisco was among the early arrivals at the red carpet premiere of ‘Faney’ (The Fan), a tribute film for the late National Artist and Superstar Nora Aunor, held at Gateway Cinema 11 on May 21—Ate Guy’s birthday.
A longtime admirer of the Superstar, RS didn’t think twice when Direk Adolfo Alix Jr. pitched the idea of producing a film about Nora Aunor’s loyal fans.
“This is our tribute to Mama Guy and her fans!” RS shared excitedly.
The tribute film stars Laurice Guillen, Gina Alajar, Roderick Paulate, Bembol Roco, and others. RS recalled how thrilled he was when the ensemble cast agreed to be part of the project.
He also opened up about the moment he found out Nora had passed away.
“Nang yumao ito ay nasa ibang bansa ako’t walang way para makauwi dahil sa commitments niyang naka-schedule the whole week.”
Wanting to honor Ate Guy in a meaningful way, RS found the perfect opportunity when Direk Adolf messaged him about a possible collaboration.
“Sinabing baka gusto niyang pag-usapan nila pag-uwi niya ang proyekto nito tungkol sa fans ni Nora. Hindi na ako nagdalawang-isip pa at umokey na agad sa meeting na naganap pag-uwing pag-uwi ko sa Pilipinas.”
After hearing the story, RS immediately gave the go signal.
“Nang ikwento sa akin ni Direk Adolf ang istorya ng ‘Faney’ ay kaagad na nagbigay ako ng go signal para gawin ang pelikula.”
He also shared a touching memory from the 1990s, when he was assigned to fetch Nora Aunor from her home in La Vista.
“Kahit kakarag-karag ang sasakyan na hiniram lang niya ay sumakay daw si Ate Guy nang walang reklamo.”
At a gasoline station, something unforgettable happened.
“Nang huminto kami sa gasolinahan para magpa-gas, nakilala raw ng mga batang kalsada si Nora kaya dinumog nila ito. Ang ginawa raw ni Ate Guy, bumaba at pinapila ang mga bata. Ibinigay daw nito ang lahat ng perang nasa wallet niya.”
“Ako po mismo ‘yung nakakita kung gaano ka-selfless ang isang Superstar. Hindi niya itinigil ang pagbigay ng pera hanggang hindi naubos ‘yung laman ng pitaka niya. Do’n ko na-realize kung bakit ang dami sa buong mundo ng nagmamahal sa kanya.”
The premiere night of ‘Faney’ (The Fan) was well-attended, including Nora’s sons Ian and Kenneth de Leon, the cast, and numerous loyal Noranians—some of whom weren’t able to enter due to the packed venue.
As of now, there is no confirmed playdate for the theatrical release. RS said the premiere night was the only sure screening so far, but they are considering streaming platforms for wider distribution.
“Sa ngayon, ang tanging sigurado raw sa ‘Faney (The Fan)’ ay ang naganap na premiere night nito noong birthday mismo ni Mama Guy. Puwede rin daw na ilapit nila ang ‘Faney (The Fan)’ sa isang sikat na streaming app.”
For now, fans are encouraged to stay tuned.
“Abang-abang lang tayo sa susunod na ganap ng ‘Faney (The Fan)’.”
