A primetime fare worth watching

By Gerry Plaza

Much excitement has lingered over the recent spate of teleserye masterpieces that have literally pushed the envelope in primetime storytelling.

While the commercial argument is always valid, bringing in a stellar cast that should assure a ratings victory, today’s teleseryes have gone beyond that and devised fresh storylines and compelling sequences that make the viewer look forward to it other than just mentioning Piolo Pascual or Kim Chiu is in it.

Now the writer’s imagination has taken over and the director’s magic has woven the teleserye into something that is unforgettable and truly captivating. From the visuals to the thespic performances, today’s teleseryes have made primetime worth the daylong anticipation.

But the biggest factor that differentiates today’s teleseryes from previous epochs is the choice of provocative, daring and never-before-imagined themes that “scandalize” yet “engage” and “educate” the viewers. This brings about the kind of innovation or radicalism that entices the viewer to wit: “Ganoon pala magmahal ang bakla,” and “hindi naman pala ganoong kasama ang kerida.”

While, indeed, reality sets in and in the end emerge victorious, the teleserye play of such themes is very much appreciated and recognized.

“My Husband’s Lover” getting the lone Filipino International Emmy nod this year is really a cause for celebration, not only for those behind it, but the entire industry, creative community, and the nation, as well. It shows how the most “taboo” topic in any TV drama can be executed in the most scenic, lucid, elegant, forceful, and even lead star-crossed teenagers to make giddy shrieks when Vincent and Eric lay their eyes on each other, or shed a tear when realities set them apart. Yes, a gay Pinoy pop culture classic even for straight men or women.

Also, the play on extramarital indecencies have always been portrayed monotonously, leading people to just shut the TV off and confidently say they know what will happen next. But “The Legal Wife” and “Ang Dalawang Mrs. Real” gave televiewers more facets of the “affair” that’s more than meets the eye or even the imagination. It leads us to discover all sides of the story while fighting for what we think is right. Indeed, both offer true drama package that not only entertains or exposes—but enriches as well.

Kudos to the networks for allowing creative juices and not cultural or social biases to dominate and dictate. We are surely looking forward to more of these wonderful creations that will continue to illuminate Philippine TV and deepen the discussions.