NEWSFLASH

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MARICEL IN ROBIN'S FIRST POST-PRISON MOVIE

Manila, June 30, 1998 - Viva Films, which initially had second thoughts about producing Robin Padilla's first movie since leaving the national penitentiary, has changed its mind and decided it's worth the risk despite the P5-million asking price of each of the two lead stars: Robin and Maricel Soriano.

Maricel and Robin signed the contract with Viva Films a few nights ago, jumping the gun on Star Cinema which had earlier announced plans to produce a Robin Padilla movie.

The contract binds Robin to a 5-picture with Viva, which bought the rights from FLT Films' Rose Flaminiano. Robin had signed an 8-picture exclusive contract with FLT while in prison, which in turn was sold to Viva (5 films) and Star Cinema (3 films).

With talent fees for the two lead stars totalling P10 million, the budget for the Robin's first Viva movie could very well exceed P20 million, according to industry insiders.

Viva has yet to announce the line-up of leading ladies for the next 4 Robin Padilla movies it has contracted for. Among the most prominent stars mentioned is Rosanna Roces.