Aicelle Santos’ Unique Approach to Portraying Elsa in “Isang Himala”: A Modern Interpretation of a Timeless Classic

In the world of Philippine cinema, few performances have left as indelible a mark as Nora Aunor’s portrayal of Elsa in the iconic film “Himala.” The character, born from a rich narrative of faith and struggle, has become synonymous with Aunor’s talent and emotional depth. With the upcoming film “Isang Himala,” Aicelle Santos steps into the shoes of Elsa, bringing her unique interpretation while paying homage to the legendary performance that came before her.

Aicelle understands the emotional connection many audiences have with Aunor’s portrayal. “I know how deeply people feel about Nora’s Elsa,” she shares. “She is a monumental figure in our industry, and her performance set a high standard.” However, Aicelle believes that her approach can offer something new and refreshing. “While I respect and admire what she has done, I also recognize that I cannot simply mimic her performance. That would not be authentic to me as an actor.”

To resonate with both longtime fans and new audiences, Aicelle emphasizes the importance of staying true to the script and the core essence of Elsa’s character. “My focus is on the story and building genuine connections with my co-actors. This allows me to explore the emotional layers of Elsa without losing sight of the narrative,” she explains. Aicelle’s dedication to understanding the character’s journey is evident in her process; she immerses herself in the script, analyzing each scene to understand Elsa’s motivations and struggles.

One of the significant differences in Aicelle’s portrayal compared to Aunor’s is the medium of expression. In the original film, the emotional weight was conveyed through Aunor’s powerful on-screen presence and vocal performance. In contrast, “Isang Himala” allows Aicelle to delve deeper into the character’s psyche, exploring Elsa’s vulnerabilities and strengths in a different context. “In the musical version, we relied heavily on live singing to express emotions,” she notes. “Now, I have the opportunity to focus more on the character’s internal struggles and relationships, which adds richness to the portrayal.”

Moreover, Aicelle recognizes the importance of connecting with the audience beyond the narrative. “It’s not just about delivering a great performance; it’s about fostering an emotional connection with the viewers,” she says. “I want to evoke feelings that resonate on a personal level. If I can make them feel what Elsa is going through, then I believe I’ve done my job.”

Her commitment to authenticity extends to her belief that stories, especially those rooted in Filipino culture, should continue to be told and celebrated. “We have an intelligent audience that craves meaningful narratives,” Aicelle asserts. “If we present powerful stories that reflect our experiences, they will respond positively.” This perspective is especially relevant in the context of the Metro Manila Film Festival (MMFF), where she hopes “Isang Himala” will stand out among the lineup of films, showcasing a compelling narrative that transcends mere entertainment.

Ultimately, Aicelle Santos aims to honor the legacy of Nora Aunor while carving out her own space in the portrayal of Elsa. She believes that audiences can appreciate the nuances of her interpretation without diminishing the original. “It’s about evolution,” she states. “Every actor brings their own flavor to a role, and I hope to add my own touch to this beloved character.”

As the release of “Isang Himala” approaches, Aicelle’s excitement is palpable. She eagerly anticipates how audiences will react to her portrayal, confident that her dedication to the craft and deep understanding of the character will resonate with viewers both old and new. With a heartfelt commitment to storytelling and a desire to connect emotionally with her audience, Aicelle Santos is poised to breathe new life into the timeless character of Elsa, ensuring that her journey continues to inspire and move hearts for generations to come.

Isang Himala is an upcoming Filipino musical film directed by Pepe Diokno, co-written with Ricky Lee, based on the 2018 theatrical play. As one of the 10 official entries of the 50th Metro Manila Film Festival, it premieres in Philippine cinemas on December 25, 2024.