Snooky Serna names Barbie Forteza as her top choice for Galema in ‘Zuma’ remake

If a remake for the classic Filipino film “Galema: Anak ni Zuma” were to be made, Snooky Serna already have a few names of actresses whom she wants to reprise her iconic role.

In an interview with reporters on the sidelines of the surprise birthday celebration for veteran filmmaker-producer Ben Yalung, Serna took her pick among the roster of actresses who could make the best depiction of Galema, the fictional character of the 1985 comics-based movie that she starred in.

Among her top choices are Barbie Forteza, Kathryn Bernardo, and Carla Abellana. But for her, it’s Forteza who stood out for the role, noting her youthful looks and physicality needed for the role.

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“I consider kasi si Barbie na younger pa rin. So para sa akin, parang gusto ko si Barbie,” she said. “I think it would be nice to see Barbie. That’s my first choice to play the role of Galema. She’s also athletic.”

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In suggesting Abellana and Bernardo, Serna cited their professionalism and versatility.

“O kaya pwede pa ba si Carla Abellana or Kathryn Bernardo? I’ve worked with all of them. I’ve had the blessing of having worked with them,” she said.

“‘Yung professionalism nilang tatlo. Nandoon ‘yung versatility nila kahit anong role. They can take it up. Wala silang pinipili,” added the seasoned actress .

Serna explained the three actresses possess the qualities needed to carry the character, including beauty, intelligence, and audience appeal.

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Remembering ‘Zuma’

Serna said she considers it an honor to have been chosen for the titular role at the height of her career.

“Until now, hindi pa rin ako makapaniwala na of all the actors in showbiz, madami naman kaming pagpipilian. Pero ako ‘yung napili nila for the role of Galema. It’s an honor,” she said.

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She further said she would be open to appearing in a remake, although she would prefer a guest role that would carry sentimental value.

The cast of the 1985 film “Zuma,” including Serna, PJ Abellana, and Louella De Cordova, reunited at Yalung’s birthday celebration.

Produced by Cine Suerte Productions and directed by Jun Aristorenas, “Zuma” became one of Philippine cinema’s fantasy-horror classic films. The movie follows the story of Zuma, a powerful half-man, half-snake creature, and his daughter Galema, who inherits his supernatural abilities while struggling with her identity and destiny.

The 1985 film starred Max Laurel as Zuma, with Serna as Galema. It was followed by the 1987 sequel “Anak ni Zuma,” which was directed by Yalung.

The character of Galema was later adapted into a television series, “Galema: Anak ni Zuma,” which starred Andi Eigenmann in the title role.

Cine Suerte

Serna also looked back fondly on her working relationship with Yalung, who produced several classic Filipino films through Cine Suerte Productions.

“I don’t want to claim that I’m really so close to Tito Ben. But in the way that I remember him and I know him fondly,” she said.

She described Yalung and his wife as “kind, gracious, spiritual, and helpful,” adding that her experience working with Cine Suerte was memorable.

“‘Yung ginagawa ko ‘yung Cine Suerte, wala kami naging problema sa payment. Maganda silang magbayad. I got my first million from Cine Suerte so it was something for me,” Serna expressed.

Cine Suerte Productions, known for classic films such as “Karnal” and “Cain at Abel,” is now preparing for a return to film production. The company’s upcoming project is “Teresing,” a faith-based biopic about the life of Venerable Archbishop Teofilo Camomot of Cebu.

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The production outfit previously produced religious films including “Kristo” and “Divine Mercy sa Buhay ni Sister Faustina,” and is also planning a sequel to “Kristo” titled “Ang Mga Gawa,” based on the Acts of the Apostles. /edv