Who else but the subjects in the SekSinema (Gender Images in Philippine Sex Cinema Enfolding Pandemia) would attend the in-person book launch last Saturday.
The book, written by this writer, was launched at the Cinematheque Center of the Film Development Council of the Philippines at 588 T. M. Kalaw Street, Ermita Manila with bold starts Maria Isabel Lopz, Jean Saburit, Liz Alindogan, Aimee Torres, Yvonne Salcedo, Amanda Amores, Joy Sumilang, Stella L and with the inimitable commedienne Tessie Tomas to show force of daringness in female art presentation in support of the substance of the book.
The bevy of sexy actresses of the part and present showed up to celebrate the momentous occasion of reliving their glory days and discussing the significance of gender films in the development of society.
With a historically-laced research combined with socio-political contexts, cultural theories and exclusive personal accounts of celebrities, the book launch spoke of the strong character of the female guests. “We are here to promote women’s rights as elucidated in the book. We might have shown our flesh onscreen but we have maintained our dignity as human persons,” Maria Isabel beamed proudly.
Most of the actresses present were representations of female struggles and victories against misogyny and discrimination.
Lopez was 1982 Binibining Pilipinas-Universe who fought for independence of an actress to do whatever is right for her body; Jean was 1975 Binibining Pilipinas-Young who wisely decided to join the bold bandwagon with a difference; Liz was one of the popular Dolphy’s Angels who asserted her feminine uniqueness; Aimee was the original singer of the cult song hit “Pusong Bato” who fought for her right as the signature singer of the ditty; Stella L. was a level-headed support to lead actresses; Amanda and Joy were both brave boldies who stood proud of their decision to disrobe and Tessie was the versatile impersonator of famous persons including parodying sexy stars like Bonnie Buendia, an allusion to the late bold star Claudia Zobel.