Batanes Movie BTS (Ken Chu and Iza Calzado),

Thursday November 15, 2007 Philippines

Behind the scenes of "Batanes"

On December 5, viewers will be able to watch the poignant love story of a Filipina (Iza Calzado) and a Taiwanese fisherman (Ken Zhu) set in the northernmost province of the Philippines, Batanes.


Ken Zhu (left), a member of the Taiwanese boy band F4, is paired with Iza Calzado (right) for the movie Batanes. The popular actor describes his leading lady: "Iza's cool. She's really nice. We have a lot of things in common—we both love eating and traveling around."


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Ken Zhu narrates a children's story for the benefit of the young Ivatans, the natives of Batanes. With its vast landscape, rough seas, and ever-changing weather, Batanes is the perfect backdrop for this romantic movie.



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In the movie, Pam (Iza) finds Kao (Ken) unconscious on the beach of Ivujos island. She helps bring down his fever and eventually takes him back to her village—leading to a budding romance. In real life however, it is Ken who takes care of the well-being of his fellow stars.

Upon arriving in Batanes for his first shooting day, Ken gave director Adolf Alix Jr. a foot massage. On the last day of taping, it was Iza's turn to get a massage for her injured leg.


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Ken Zhu as Kao and Iza Calzado as Pam are dressed up in Filipiniana to attend the wedding of Melanie (Glaiza de Castro) and Noel (Mike Tan).

When asked if Iza felt any sparks between her and Ken, she admitted that she wasn't a big fan of the F4. Since Iza is happily commited to her boyfriend Jerry Garcia, she said that the only sparks that flew were those onscreen.



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In this scene, Iza teaches Ken the Tagalog word for plate while he, in turn, teaches Iza to say the Chinese word for glass.

The GMA star says that she looks forward to her tai chi sessions with Ken. "Usually after dinner, after meals, he motions with his hands and he teaches me tai chi," says Iza. She even mimics his deep voice and goes, "The first thing you have to learn in tai chi is the breathing."



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Ken and Iza play characters who both harbor painful memories. They develop a bond that leads to an intimate encounter. When asked to talk about their love scene, Iza says that her co-star Ken was very nervous since it was his first bed scene in his entire career.

"Actually, this is his first love scene. He was getting nervous. I felt like laughing. I felt, 'I'm the one who should be nervous right?'

"Both my leading men in the film [Ken Zhu and Joem Bascon] were nervous...I felt nervous too, his fans might run after me and fight with me," says Iza with a hint of seriousness in her joke.

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Batanes has the tagline "Ang pag-ibig ay walang hangganan," which translates as "Love has no borders."
Although the two lead characters come from different cultures, they will prove that love is universal. Emotions know no boundaries.

Source: PEP

Iza Calzado and Ken Zhu share tender moments in "Batanes"

Thursday, November 15, 2007

Jocelyn Dimaculangan

At the farthest end of the archipelago, where the Pacific Ocean merges with the South China Sea, a Filipina develops a romance with a Taiwanese fisherman despite their language and cultural barrier—proving that, indeed, love knows no borders.

That is the premise of the Ignite Media and GMA Films presentation, Batanes, which will open in theaters nationwide starting December 5.

Directed by Adolf Alix Jr. and Dave Hukom, this 35mm film showcases the unique beauty of the island after which it is named. The Ivatan limestone houses, the breathtaking rock formations, and the gorgeous lighthouse of Basco and Sabtang islands serve as the backdrop for a love story between the headstrong Pam (Iza Calzado) and the gentle Kao (Ken Zhu).

When PEP asked Iza to describe the island of Batanes, she gushed, "It's so pure. I feel the beauty of Batanes, the innocence and simplicity of the place. It's really an untouched territory, which I hope remains like that. It't not exploited. It's actually overwhelming because that is where you will see the power ng nature against man. And any point in time, it can take your life anytime—the sea, the darkness, the night, the animals.

"There is no light at night. No street lights. There is a light post in Basco but in Sabtang [where we stayed], there is none," explains Iza.

Although the F4 member was unable to attend the press con of Batanes, which took place last November 13 at the GMA-7 compound, the media was shown a taped interview wherein Ken shared his thoughts about the island.

Ken was videotaped on a beach in Batanes and behind him was a spectacular view of the sunset. "I didn't expect Batanes to be so beautiful," said the F4 boy-band member. "You can call the place a paradise. And it's so near to Taiwan. It's so relaxing."

During the press con it was revealed that the Taiwanese superstar was supposed to act opposite another young superstar, Judy Ann Santos. Director Adolf admitted that he even approached Judy Ann during the first shooting day of Ouija in order to show her the script of Batanes. She would have loved to do the project but prior commitments prevented her from accepting the offer. But Judy Ann recommended her Ouija co-star Iza Calzado to fill in her shoes.

The GMA-7 star felt flattered that Judy Ann herself recommended her for the role. At the time, Iza was still waiting for confirmation whether or not she would reprise her role in the Hollywood remake of Sigaw. Fortunately, she was chosen to play the role of Gina, the wife of a policeman (played by Kevin Durand) in The Echo.

Iza managed to fix her schedule so she was able to star in Batanes: Sa Dulo ng Walang Hanggan and The Echo.

MULTI-LINGUAL KEN. In Batanes, Ken's speaking lines are mostly in Mandarin but off-cam, he is fluent in English, which is why the other cast and staff members had no problems communicating with him.

Regarding his role as Kao the fisherman, Ken says that it was a very big challenge for him. "It's my first time to play a role that requires a lot of body language, more than lines."

Communicating with others is not a problem for the Singapore-educated actor since Ken speaks English, Cantonese, Singlish, and a bit of Thai, Indonesian, and Japanese.

It was also revealed that the organizers originally didn't think of getting an F4 member to play a role in the movie. "We never planned to get Ken since we just wanted a Taiwanese actor. But Arleen [Cuevas, executive producer of the film] was able to get in touch with Ken and surprisingly, he replied that he liked the material."

When asked why he chose Batanes for the setting of his movie, Adolf pointed out that this is his second film to be shot in the northernmost province of the Philippines. "Mahilig akong mag-shoot sa lugar na mahirap puntahan. The place is very unique to the Philippines. It's like going to a different country. It can rival New Zealand [the setting of the epic movie Lord of the Rings].

SYNOPSIS. It was a whirlwind romance when Pam (Iza Calzado) meets Ivatan Rico (Joem Bascon) in Manila. She decides to give up her meaningless, stressful city life and follow him to Batanes to meet his parents Boy and Lydia (Bembol Roco, Daria Ramirez) and marry him.

The sea immediately intimidates Pam and shows its power, telling her how, with the strong toss of its waves, it can end everything. Pam tries to adapt to the Ivatan way of life. Pam starts hating the sea that Rico loves so much. Despite all these adjustments, Pam is happy with her new life and with Rico.

But everything changes when Rico does not return from fishing. Pam is devastated. She blames no one but the sea. Realizing that she cannot continue living in Batanes without Rico, Pam decides to leave. But before boarding the boat, she realizes that the sea is laughing at her defeat, so Pam decides to stay but she still cannot forget Rico.

On the anniversary of her husband's death, Pam sails to the Ivujos Island. She gets stranded on the island by an angry storm. She then sees a man lying face down in the sand. For a moment, she thinks it is Rico. But it turns out to be a Taiwanese, Kao (Ken Zhu). She administers to his wounds and brings down his fever. When the storm breaks, she drags Kao to her boat and takes him back with her.

The villagers are reluctant to accept the Taiwanese, especially Manuel (Sid Lucero) and Boy (Bembol Roco) since most Taiwanese fishermen fish illegally in the waters of Batanes. As Pam takes care of Kao, she starts to be drawn towards him. She starts to feel that he is a kindred soul. Language and cultural difference are no barriers as emotions rise. Love surfaces anew.

Batanes provides the breathtaking backdrop to their poignant love story. Will their love win over? Or will their past haunt them and eventually separate them?

Essentially a picturesque romance, Batanes also explores the intimate portrait of a woman's relationship with the ocean.

On November 28-30, there will be a special screening of the movie Batanes: Sa Dulo ng Walang Hanggan on the island itself. Meanshile, Ken Zhu will come back to the Philippines next month to promote the film, which will open in theaters starting December 5.

Iza Calzado stupefied with Ken Zhu's kiss

Monday November 12, 2007 Philippines

JUN NARDO
TRANSLATED FROM FILIPINO TO ENGLISH BY HONEYBUMS OF KCIFC PHILIPPINES

Iza Calzado is truly a favorite with the international stars, This year alone, she was paired with two international stars, ha!

The first one is Jesse Bradford her partner in the Hollywood version of her local flick “Sigaw,” entitled “The Echo.”

And then, there is Ken Zhu of F4 who was paired with her in Batanes.

Iza said that Ken found Tali Beach, which is near Tagaytay very beautiful.

“He said, he has to work harder because he wants to own a beach property like that. But his stay here that time was really fast. And we were just together for one day. During the premiere of this movie I am sure he will come back,” Iza narrates.

Ken is really a good person, but they weren’t really able to catch up with each other.

“He was here only for a short time only. When I called him the day after, he was having dinner with Papa Bembol (Roco). He taught me how to do some taiji moves but I have already forgotten it. I had so much work that day that we weren’t really able to talk.

“He really loves it here. He wants to be in the Philippines always, especially in Batanes. He really fell in love with Batanes,” shares Iza.

Do you have a kissing scene with Ken?

“We have, we have. We even have a love scene,” she answered.

How was your kissing scene with Ken?

“It turned out well. Ha! Ha! Ha!

Ken Do Spirit

Sunday 11 November 2007, Philipine

By Bayani San Diego Jr.
Inquirer
Last updated 11:57pm (Mla time) 11/11/2007

BASCO, BATANES—His pinoy fans will finally get to hear Ken Zhu’s real speaking voice—in a drama movie, no less.

On the TV hit “Meteor Garden,” his voice, like the rest of the boy band F4, was dubbed by Filipino talents. In Adolf Alix’s and Dave Hukom’s romance drama “Batanes,” Ken is using his own voice.

It wasn’t just his voice he lent to the film, but his total commitment, says Ignite Media producer Arleen Cuevas.

His management company was reportedly reluctant at first, but Ken insisted on accepting the project.

He also gave suggestions to improve the screenplay’s Taiwan segments. “He asked that his character’s name be changed from T-Sai to Kao, which was more modern,” says Arleen.

In shooting the love scene, he was just as cooperative, says Adolf.

“Originally, we were limited to head shots, but he allowed us to shoot his bare back, up to his waist,” Adolf recounts.

On his last day in Batanes, Ken told Adolf: “I bet you that I’ll be back.”

Less than a week later, he was shooting additional scenes with Iza in Tali Beach, Batangas.

“Ken assured me that he didn’t want to rush and that he was willing to come back if needed,” Adolf says.

More significantly, the extra day of shoot was still part of his contract—meaning there’s no extra pay.

“He stayed until 6 a.m. to finish his scenes with Iza even though his flight to Taiwan that same day was 12 noon,” associate director Arman Reyes says.

Adolf says that Ken promises to return for the movie’s Manila premiere on Dec. 5.

What attracted you to the script of “Batanes”?

I fell in love with the story. That was why I decided to do it. I liked the idea that Batanes is actually closer to Taiwan and that there are (foreign) fishermen who drifted to this island.

The conflict is real; the story, powerful. I also like the love story.

What attracted you to the role?

I have to say that this is the hardest role I’ve ever done because there are very few lines and we mostly had to rely on body language. Luckily, my partner Iza is supportive and allows me to do the part well.

How similar are you to your character?

We’re both Taiwanese. (Laughs) Well, I’m also into water sports like scuba diving. I just started surfing. It helped that I know a few fishermen in my country. One thing I share with Kao is our affection for the ocean. That was why it wasn’t hard to understand and develop the character.

What is it like working with directors Adolf and Dave?

Adolf is one of the best directors I’ve worked with. He knows exactly what he wants. Even if we’re in a hurry, Dave remains cool. He’s also very insistent about the cinematography, which is good because that means we have great shots.

What are your hopes for this film?

I hope that this movie will be shown in other countries. It’s good because it combines art and commerce.

What do you mean by “fusion” and Asian co-productions as the wave of the future?

The entertainment industry has been messed up for a while. But since the Asian market is growing bigger, what Asian artists need to do is collaborate in different projects. By sharing ideas, we will become stronger and we’ll be able to fight the so-called Western invasion. But the first step is to educate people about copyright laws and the harmful effects of piracy.

What is it like working with the other Filipino actors?

I love them. They’re like family to me now. Sid (Lucero) is a very funny guy. We got along well. We talked about boxing and martial arts.

Uncle Bem (Bembol Roco) is the coolest guy on earth. One day, we were shooting in a beach and he suddenly said: “The ocean is calling me.” Then, he jumped into the water. He’s so cool.

How were the people?

The people are friendly and simple. The only problem is they drink too much (laughs)!

Are you planning to buy property in Batanes?

I’m thinking of investing here. This is a very promising site. But I think that the major problem Batanes is facing now is not developing the place, but preserving its beauty.

If I’m allowed to invest here, the first thing I’ll do is to improve the people’s living conditions—provide better education, better medical care.

What will you tell your friends in Taiwan about Batanes?

I will tell them how beautiful this place is. But I will not try to convince them to come here. (Laughs) I would like to keep it private for a while. Exclusive to myself.

Ken Zhu studies Taiji for two years, goes abroad to compete captures gold

Saturday November 3, 2007 Taiwan

Zhu Xiao Tian studies Taiji for two years goes abroad to compete captures gold

November 3, 2007
Taiwan Apple

Zhu Xiao Tian in his drama [Chu Liu Xiang] has his own interpretation of Wu Gong martial arts and has surpassed Xiang Shuai, in real life he became a master of Taijiquan. He went to the Basque Country of Spain last month for the 7th Chang Dong-shen, World Taiji and ShuaiJiao Championship Contest and won the gold medal, studying Taiji was his greatest inspiration for the past two years, next year he will offer a course to promote the study of Taijiquan.

This competition was held last October 12-14, it lasted three days, aside from the host country Spain, there were contestants from Mainland China, England, France and Italy, more than 20 athletes participated and were divided according to their age, body weight and specialization. The Taiwan Shuaijiao delegation of 11 people the achieved a result of 3 golds and 3 bronzes, Zhu Xiao Tian and Guo Xuan Hai obtained gold medals, Zhu Xiao Tian excitedly said “This can promote the popularity of Wu Shu, you can also win prizes, it’s truly meaningful and great.”

He is thinking of promoting the study of Taiji.

For the past two years, he has been faithfully studying under Lin Wen Xiong, so he could be a master. Everyday he practices from 7 to 10 in the morning, in the early days he really suffered in this unspeakable misery, he went to practice with Agong and Amo, no one knows who he is, everyone calls him “Xiao Zhu” afterwards they learned of him through the media, they learned that “Xiao Zhu” is a big star, these days he has gone home as a champion and gotten a gold medal, he is also considered as “Taiwan’s bright star.”

At first, he studied Taiji so he could learn how to be calm and change his impulsive behavior but after two years not only is his disposition better his view of life also had a big change, At present, whatever time or place he can practice taiji, he can also help a person’s health with his massage skills.

He hopes he can offer a course on taiji or record and produce a DVD, to popularize this sport. He was asked if knows how to "fool around" after being interviewed if he understood what Taijiquan is he laughed and said: “I am still the same genuine person towards other people.”

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Ken Zhu "in charge" of breakfast, Japanese Fans Get Crazy

Sunday October 28, 2007 Taiwan

Chu Xiao Tian "in charge" of breakfast,

Japanese fans all get crazy

Source: TBVS News at http://news.pchome.com.tw/

Date: October 28, 2007

Once again, F4 re-allied for Tourism at 3pm. this afternoon. Nonetheless, Chu Xiao Tian has already carried out his private banquet gathering to show his appreciation for the fans in the morning. In order to have a closer reaction with the fans, Chu Xiao Tian's official fan club specially reserved a private banquet hall for the whole day. Moreover, Chu Xiao Tian, who is talented for cookery, will cook and serve in person. Breakfast, lunch and dinner, are all in a roll. A total of 108 overseas fans are benefit with such an honour. The cost spent on venue and food alone, amount to almost $200,000.8

Early around 8am. Japanese fans started gathering at the balcony of the banquet hall. They gave up nice sleeps so as to arrive early. All these are for Ken, Chu Xiao Tian. Japanese fan, "Chu Xiao Tian", Reporter, "Why do you want to see him?" Japanese fan, "Because he is so handsome." Reporter, "And you?" Japanese fan, "Chu Xiao Tian". Reporter, "How is Chu Xiao Tian?" Japanese fan, "I like him so much. He is brilliant." Staff, "Thank you!"

In order to join this special occasion, "shi-nai (housewife)" fans are all willing to spend a fortune. One even came a long way from Canada to Taiwan. Canadian fan Ms. Ji, "Really longing for this. I found he is so elegant and wise."

Fans expressed that it is worthwhile to take this journey. Fans not only be able to enjoy a close interaction with him, but also taste his good cooking.

Menus are printed on the invitation card beginning with a great breakfast. It included raw/cooked eggs, sesame oil mixed noodle, gumbo mixed with pear, green bean porridge, etc. Every dish is handled by Chu Xiao Tian. The menu also included detail recipes that are printed in Chinese, Japanese, English and Korean with easy references for overseas fans.

Reporter, "What do you prepare for the fans today?" The talent chef Chu Xiao Tian will present his favourite dish "Lard mixed rice" at lunch for his fans. In addition, traditional Taiwanese dishes, like red roast pork, sweet yam leaves are part of the feast. When it comes to dinner, he prepared a special soy sauced dish. After the super, he even prepared "Hong Qu", a well brewed wine from Ma Zu.

Longing to meet Chu Xiao Tian without a distant? There are only 108 quota. One has to register and pay $1700 first for an opportunity to get close to the idol. Even though one has to be an early-bird and a bit exhausted, being one of the lucky star chasers coming to Taiwan is a fruitful reward.

Translated by weiwei of kenforever

Pinoy F4

Sunday October 28, 2007 Philippines

By Bayani San Diego Jr.
Inquirer
Last updated 00:10am (Mla time) 10/28/2007

FORMER boy band member Ken is deglamorized as a Taiwanese fisherman marooned on an island province. PHOTO COURTESY OF IGNITE MEDIA AND ROGER ROBLES


BASCO, Batanes, Philippines -“He’s very Filipino,” Iza Calzado describes co-star Ken Zhu of F4 fame. “He’s having so much fun here.”

The Taiwanese singer-actor was in the northernmost Philippine island-province for 10 days for the shoot of the romance drama “Batanes,” directed by Adolf Alix Jr. and Dave Hukom for Ignite Media. Ken is set to come back on the third week of November for the movie’s opening.

“He loves joking around and singing standards by Frank Sinatra. Pinoy na Pinoy,” Iza tells Inquirer Entertainment on the movie’s set on White Beach, Batanes, on Tuesday.

Co-star Glaiza de Castro agrees: “He’s cool. I only used to watch him on ‘Meteor Garden,’ but now I got to act with him. I never imagined he’s that approachable.”

Another co-actor, Coco Martin, relates that Ken “bonded” with the Filipino cast and crew. “At first he was shy. But soon enough, he started jamming, eating and chatting with us.”

Ken is no stranger to the country. It’s his fourth trip to the Philippines, but his first to Batanes—which is nearer to Taiwan than to Manila, he points out.

“My first trip abroad was to Manila. I was only 7 then,” Ken looks back. “I loved this dessert called halo-halo. Everywhere I looked there were guitars.”

The Filipinos’ innate warmth and musicality impressed him.

Associate director Armando A. Reyes recalls that Ken, Iza, Glaiza and Bembol Roco sang “Do Re Mi” from “The Sound of Music” on the set one slow day.

There was a light and jovial mood on this set.

Direk Arman and co-star Sid Lucero’s jokes broke the ice with Ken, Iza reminisces.

“Like me, Ken was also feeling his way through at first. He was tired when he got here because he came from Spain where he had topped a tai chi competition.”

Ken taught Iza a few tai chi moves because, Ken explains, the skill helps him in “communicating” with his fellow actors. “It also keeps me healthy and gets rid of stress. It calms me down after a highly emotional scene.”

Apart from singing and tai chi, the talented Ken is also a whiz in the kitchen. He wrote a cookbook entitled “Delicious Relationships” and conducts culinary workshops for his fans.

He tells Inquirer Entertainment that he intends to cook for the crew. “It’s a simple family recipe made of eggs and tomatoes.”

The actor/singer/tai chi champ/ cook is also a reflexologist.

“On the first day, after noticing that I sprained my left foot, he massaged it,” Adolf notes.

“Although he’s an Asian superstar, he’s down-to-earth,” Iza says.

“He went motorbiking on his own on his first day,” Adolf recounts.

“When I got here, I was pale. I wanted to get a tan,” Ken says.

Adolf relates: “The locals know him, but they didn’t mob or bother him. He experienced freedom here.”

Ken has fallen in love with Batanes and its people so much that he is planning to buy a piece of property here. “I love this place. It’s paradise. I’ve never seen an island as beautiful as this. Very promising.”

He is raring to come back and work in the Philippines again.

He says that, in spite of the hectic working schedule, the Filipinos “are the most heartwarming crew I’ve met. They’re like family to me now.”

F4 star Ken Chu to shoot in Batanes

Monday October 15, 2007 Philippines







Source: KCIFC Philippines

MANILA, Philippines - Taiwanese superstar Ken Zhu, member of the wildly popular quartet F4, is expected to arrive in the country this week. He will stay for 10 days to work on “Batanes,” an independent film opposite Iza Calzado.

Upon his arrival at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport, Ken—Xi-Men in the hit television series “Meteor Garden”—will board a private jet to Batanes Island, according to director Adolf Alix Jr.

“He will be back in November to promote the movie,” said Alix, who filmed the critically acclaimed “Kadin” on the same wind-swept island off the northernmost tip of Luzon.

Fisherman
Ken plays the role of a stranded fisherman from Taiwan. Iza will portray a Manila sales girl who relocates to Batanes, and is torn between Ken and an Ivatan portrayed by Joem Bascon.

In a phone interview with Inquirer Entertainment on Saturday, Alix said the filming of “Batanes” began four days ago.

The main cast members—Iza, Joem, Sid Lucero, Coco Martin, Bembol Roco, Daria Ramirez, Julio Diaz, Mike Tan and Glaiza de Castro—are expected to arrive in Batanes on Sunday.

“Batanes,” produced by Ignite Media, will be shown in local theaters starting Nov. 28. Alix co-directs “Batanes” with Dave Hukom, Ignite Media chief executive officer.

Tribute
In November, Alix will work on a twin-bill, “Manila,” with Raya Martin (“Autohystoria,” “Short Film about the Indio Nacional”).

“Manila” is a tribute to Ishmael Bernal’s “Manila by Night” and Lino Brocka’s “Jaguar,” Alix said.

The twin-bill, written by Ramon Sarmiento and co-produced by Bicycle Pictures and CIF Films, will run for 40 minutes each.

Alix’s first film, “Donsol,” is this year’s Philippine representative to the Oscar Awards.

Marinel R. Cruz

It's final: Iza Calzado to star with F4's Ken Zhu!

Sunday September 16, 2007 Philippines

I-speak

By NOEL FERRER

It's final: Iza Calzado to star with F4's Ken Zhu!

Since last February, the group of Ignite Media, Inc. has approached me to look for the appropriate lead for their very first solo venture as producers in "Batanes: Sa Dulo Ng Walang Hanggan." Of course we all know Ignite Media, Inc. to be in charge of big co-productions such as "Exodus," "Kadin" and the latest Bong Revival filmfest entry "Resiklo."

Now, they're coming to their own through this new project to be directed by Adolf Alix and Dave Hukom. What's special about this project is that it will star F4's Ken Zhu and our very own Pinay Hollywood actress Iza Calzado.

Written by Arah Badayos, Iza plays the role of Pam, the Manila girl who went to Batanes because she fell in love with an Ivatan. Ken Zhu portrays the role of a Taiwanese fisherman who has a mysterious affair with a girl he met in Batanes.

Among those who are tapped to play important roles in the movie are Glaiza de Castro, Sid Lucero and Coco Martin.

Before the role finally got to Iza, a lot of other actresses were considered. Judy Ann Santos, who was the top choice was the one who referred the role to Iza when they were doing "Ouija." Juday couldn't not give a green light to the project since she is occupied till the first quarter of next year. Iza, on the other hand, had to fix and dabble through the Hollywood stint and the shooting of "Desperadas. "

"Thanks to Roselle Monteverde, Manny Valera, Joel Lamangan and GMA Films for fixing Iza's schedule," says Iza's dad and manager Lito Calzado. "Iza really wanted to do the role and she is doubly excited since the movie is due for Asian release, too."

i SPEAK:

Congratulations to Iza Calzado for bagging the role of Pam in the Batanes flick. It's true that other actresses were considered for the role particularly Jennylyn Mercado and Angelica Panganiban†but this is when Iza's Hollywood schedules got in the way. But the producers thru their executive producer Arleen Cuevas said that, "those are all exploratory talks and Iza was our main consideration all along."

Ken Zhu arrives on September 26.

Source: Manila Bulletin Online

Iza goes F4

Friday August 25, 2007 Philippines

Inquirer Entertainment

By Bayani San Diego Jr.
Inquirer
Last updated 11:57pm (Manila time) 2007 August 25

http://images.inquirer.net/media/sh...61230360487.jpg
Iza Calzado

MANILA, Philippines - Following her Hollywood debut in “The Echo,” Filipino actress Iza Calzado is set to co-star with Taiwan’s Ken Zhu, formerly of the boy band F4, in a movie to be shot in Batanes.

The news was confirmed by the film’s producer, Arleen Cuevas and co-directors Adolf Alix and Dave Hukom of Ignite Media.

Adolf says Iza is “perfect” for the role—a Manila sales girl who relocates to Batanes and falls in love with an Ivatan man and a stranded fisherman from Taiwan.

The Taiwanese fisherman is to be played by Ken, while the role of the Ivatan is yet to be cast.

Adolf recalls that Judy Ann Santos was originally tapped for the movie, tentatively titled “Sa Dulo ng Walang Hanggan.”

“She loved the script,” Dave recounts. “But there were scheduling problems.”

“Judy Ann recommended Iza, a good friend and co-star in the hit movie ‘Ouija,’” Adolf says.

Iza immediately expressed interest in the script, written by Arah Jell Badayos, who wrote and co-directed “Mudraks” for last year’s Cinemalaya.

Iza, however, bagged a major role in “The Echo,” the Hollywood version of Yam Laranas’ “Sigaw.”

Thrilled

That was when they thought of Iza’s fellow GMA 7 talent Jennylyn Mercado for the part. But Iza’s schedule eased up a bit and “she eventually signed up for our project,” Dave says.

Lito Calzado, Iza’s father, confirms that his daughter will start working on the Batanes movie in October.

Adolf says that from the start Iza has been excited over the script and the prospect of going to Batanes.

“She wants to get a feel of the place before the shoot. From Toronto (where she is shooting “The Echo”), she will proceed to Batanes.”

Ken Zhu, one of the stars of the popular youth drama “Meteor Garden” (currently aired by GMA 7), was just as thrilled over the script, relates producer Arleen.

“I got in touch with him through a friend of a friend who’s a Hong Kong producer,” she says.

After sending the script’s first draft to Ken’s agent, Arleen was surprised to get an e-mail from Ken.

“He said that he had read the script himself,” she notes.

Ken also acted as consultant, giving tips on the cultural practices in Taiwan, to make the script’s flashback scenes more accurate.

“Sa Dulo” is Adolf’s second film to be shot in Batanes, after Cinemalaya’s “Kadin” this year.

“After I did an ocular for ‘Kadin,’ I told Dave that Ignite should do a love story set in Batanes,” Adolf says. “For ‘Kadin,’ we used an HD camera, but for this new movie, we will be using a 35mm film camera. Batanes should really be captured on film.”

Source: http://showbizandstyle.inquirer.net...rticle_id=84702/

F4 member Ken Zhu will return to the Philippines to shoot movie

Thursday August 23, 2007 Philippines


Ken Zhu,member of the popular Taiwanese boy band F4,will be coming back to the Philippines to shoot a movie. The 3 other members of F4- which grew extreme popularity due to the their phenomenal drama series Meteor Garden that was aired before in ABS-CBN and now in GMA7- are Jerry Yan, Vanes Wu at Vic Zhou.

PEP also learned that Ken will be arrving in the country on September 28 to start shooting the film, Batanes: Sa Dulo ng Walang Haggan. He will be staying til' mid-October for the film which is about a tourist who fell in love with Batanes.

Dave Hukom's Ignite Films will be the producer of the movie which will be directed by Adolf Alix Jr, a well-known independent film-maker. The movie will be released internationally. Adolf's previous films, Donsol and Kadin were also shot in Batanes.

full article (in Filipino)
http://www.pep.ph/news/14512/FIRST-READ-ON-PEP:-F4-member-Ken-Zhu-returns-to-Philippines-to-shoot-movie

Ken Zhu Has No Money to Marry Kelly Lin

Wednesday July 25, 2007 Taiwan

Zai Zai, Ken Zhu & Kingone present at the press conference of [Wait for you here]

Source: http://udn.com/

Translated by Cmiley

Tourism board's idol drama [Wait for you here] yesterday held a press conference, all main casts were present; because of Ken Zhu's gossip news he became the center of attention. He admits no money, so there's no way of even thinking about marriage with Kelly Lin 林熙蕾: [no house, and no car, the current me right now have no ability to care for a woman.] Zai Zai quietly denied rumoured news of having a relationship problem with Da S.

Ken and Kelly 2005 collaborated in the film [Tokyo Trial 遠東國際大審判], secretly went out, lately marriage rumours burst out. In the past when there was Zai Zai, he would be the target of questioning, but finally yesterday Ken was the focus, becoming the focus of the press conference. Once Ken was bombarded by the questions from the media regarding the situation, Zai Zai unexpectedly closed his eyes, dozing off as if he was not there.

Ken's reaction to Kelly [not admitting or denying, leaving space, feeling a little inferior, constantly saying he had no house no car, family finances are heavy, lately he had just bought a house for his grandmother under his sister's name, his hands has no savings. In the past Kelly's rumoured boy friends included Lin Jian Yue (East Asia Group President), Ma Wei Chen (Son of Yuan Ta Group) all financially abundant. Does that mean you have to be very rich to marry Kelly? He hid a bit further: [I'm not rich, and I'm not necesarily marrying her.]

Ken proudly started talking about his car racing & diving experience, extremely slim faced and bad mood; Terri Kwan 關穎 suddenly cut in and spoke out: [I didn't know Ken liked water sports, but I got my diving certificate when I was 14!] finished speaking, now Ken's face was in a bad mood.

Terri directly choking Ken at the press conference, the reason is because of Ken's rumoured girl friend Kelly Lin. Kelly & Terri originally were from the same management company [Mars Entertainment], but lately the contract was not renewed, rumours because of marriage to Ken, is Teri taking the chance to help the manager vent some air? She laughs: [you guys are thinking to much aren't you.]

The other focus is [BigZai Love], even though rumours continue, Zai Zai plays dumb: [So, outsiders also see us that way?] as if it's the first time he's heard the incident. Terri poses as a reporter asking him: [I think you will have kids first?] Zai Zai shaken a bit: [My family is very conservative.] As for produer Wang Wei Zhong once said on a show, Da S's boyfriend usually needs her to take care, after hearing it Zai Zai neither admitted or denied, and even mumbled: [isn't a relationship between 2 people?] pointing out outsiders need not worry.

Ken Zhu baking cookies for sick children. Kids all said it was delicious

Friday July 6, 2007 Taiwan

Ken Zhu baking cookies for sick children. Kids all said it was delicious.

Yesterday, F4's Ken Zhu made use of the free time he had in between the Taiwan Tourism events he needed to attend being one of the endorser to meet up with sickly kids to roll dough and bake cookies. Ken who loves to cook said that he never knew about the strict food restrictions placed on the patients but he could sympathize with the difficulties of having to follow it. Next time he want to find ingredients to make a dish low on protein for the young children.

Yesterday's afternoon at Taipen Rong Ming Zong(name of hospital) Hospital, Ken led 7 to 8 kindergarten age kids to make cookies out of cake flour made with specially mixed milk powder. They rolled it into small circles, threw in some raisins and jam, baked it for twenty to thirty minutes and sweet fragrance started to be smelled. The innocent kids ate the cookies on the spot and kept saying "very delicious"

One of Rong Zong's children section's nurse is Ken's griend and Ken attended the charity event yesterday without taking a single cent. Before that, he also queried the doctors and diet specialists on what the kids can it. He said that the kids born with metabolism disease can never eat milk, egg, fish, meat, beans etc type of protein food. Those that are more serious can only have limited rice and noodles too. They are on strict diet forever and have to use specially mixed milk powder to replace the nutrition lost. Ken expressed yesterday that when he was young, he had severe food allergy and had to go to hospital many times due to that and couldn't eat tons of food. Although he didn't have a strict food restriction like the Metabolism disease patients, he could still sympathize with their sufferings. Now that he know of these patient's condition, he hope to make use of these type of events to help them and hope everyone can generously donate to help the kids go to Taidong to have a fun summer camp.

Ken love cooking but never made dessert before. He said that next time he will go on the web to search for low protein ingredients and find receipe for food so that he can make more low protein dessert.