Newcomer John Arcenas portrays April Boy in 'Idol' biopic

The title role in "Idol," the true-to-life film of singing star April Boy Regino, did not land on a silver platter in the lap of young acting upstart John Arcenas.

- By LEAH C. SALTERIO

Out of the 27 who auditioned for the lead role in "Idol," John fortunately played the character. The newbie actor who is making his big screen debut cannot be thankful enough to land the part.

"Kilala ko po si April Boy even before," John acknowledged. "April Boy is the idol of my father. Kaya noong nagsisimula pa lang akong kumanta, naririnig ko na ang mga songs ni April Boy."

John witnessed the challenging auditions when he was lining up to try his luck.

"Noong nasa pila ako at hawak ko ang number ko, iba talaga ang kaba ko. Who doesn't know April Boy Regino? I know it's a big responsibility to portray him. I am so blessed and we're able to finish the film well."

John met the other artists who previously impersonated April Boy, especially those who joined "Pilipinas Got Talent."

The preparations to portray April Boy on the big screen was admittedly challenging for John.