Judy Ann Santos on Why Co-producing 'Espantaho' is Worth the Gamble

In her decades-long career, which began when she was a child star, Judy Ann Santos has worn multiple hats—actress, host and now, film producer. However, stepping into the roles of both lead star and co-producer in the horror/family drama "Espantaho"—her first Metro Manila Film Festival (MMFF) entry in this dual capacity—came with its fair share of challenges and lessons.

- By Nathalie M. Tomada

Under the direction of master horror storyteller Chito S. Roño from the screenplay of Chris Martinez, "Espantaho" is veteran producer Quantum Films' 20th-anniversary offering. Judy Ann's Purple Bunny Productions with husband Ryan Agoncillo served as co-producer.

"Sa pagpo-produce, nag-o-observe lang talaga yung entire team," Judy Ann told The STAR during a recent press interview. "Wala naman kaming alam technically, especially sa movies. We just really wanted to try it out and see what is out there when it comes to producing. (I would always ask myself) kaya ko ba (can I do it)? Parang hindi ko masyado kaya (laughs)."

Prior to "Espantaho," her first and last experience at producing happened to be accidental. This was in 2008 for her film "Ploning," also the Philippines' Oscars submission that year. "We had a good run. I really had a great experience. Yun nga lang di pa ako ready maging producer kasi wala na akong ibang alam kundi maglabas ng pera (laughs). Hindi nga ako nagtanong, 'May mababalik pa ba?' Kasi naka-focus ako mabalik yung pera nung ibang investors."

While she enjoyed the experience with "Espantaho" this time, Judy Ann's nature sometimes made it difficult to make tough decisions. "Masyadong makatao yung puso ko... For example, bumabagyo—automatic para sa akin, sige, huwag na lang tayo mag-shoot ngayon kasi kawawa naman yung mga tao."

Prioritizing safety and the well-being of the crew over deadlines and expenses, she acknowledged, might not really align with the expected mindset and job of a producer.