‘It’s Showtime’ contestant surprises with knowledge of obscure local film

An "It's Showtime" contestant initially drew laughter from the hosts and audience after sharing a trivia about the obscure local film, "Isda," on the show's "Laro Laro Pick" segment — but it was a moment that surprised and impressed other viewers, including the film's screenwriter, Jerry B. Gracio, and its director, acclaimed filmmaker Adolfo Alix Jr. 

In the segment, which aired on September 12, Nanay Leticia, a fish vendor, was asked by Vice Ganda if she had already watched a movie where the main character was a fish. 

"Meron po, 'Isda.' Si Cherry Pie Picache," said Nanay Leticia, drawing laughter from the hosts and audience. 

"Kelan naging isda si Cherry Pie Picache?" Vice Ganda asked. 

"Ang title 'Isda' pero po 'yung starring si Cherry Pie Picache. Anak niya 'yung isda, nasa garapon," said Nanay Leticia. 

"Baka hindi natin alam..." said Vice Ganda. "Baka meron nga namang palabas na 'Isda.' Meron daw." 

"Meron po, napanood ko po 'yun," added Nanay Leticia. 

"Isda" is a 2011 indie drama film that stars Picache alongside Bembol Roco and Anita Linda. It was directed by acclaimed filmmaker Adolfo Alix Jr. and written by Gracio. 

On Facebook, Tuesday, Gracio posted a photo of Picache from "Isda" and expressed his surprise that Nanay Leticia knew the "obscure film." 

“Nagtawanan ang mga tao, not knowing that there is indeed a film called 'Isda.' The international title was 'Fable of the Fish,' which I wrote based on an Inday Badiday story on 'See True,' first as a short story entitled 'Santa Perigrina' then, as a film directed by Adolf Alix,” Gracio wrote in his post. 

“This is an obscure film about a woman who gives birth to a fish, a personal favorite. I was actually surprised that the contestant was familiar with the film, and yes, cinephile si Nanay." 

Meanwhile, Alix commented on Gracio’s post, “Thank you, Nanay," along with a screenshot of Nanay Leticia from the segment. 

"Isda (Fable of the Fish)" follows the story of Lina (Picache), who dreams of becoming a mother despite her advanced age and her husband Miguel’s (Roco) lack of enthusiasm. She magically falls pregnant and gives birth to a fish. Strange and surreal moments put Lina and her marriage to the test. 

—CDC, GMA Integrated News