Alden and his road to America

Alden Richards is bound for California this May -- if his US visa application is approved, that is.

If ever, it would be his first time to travel abroad. The 20-year-old Alden said it is also his first time to have a passport, thanks to his role in “The Road,” Yam Laranas’ horror film which will premiere at Nokia Theater L.A. Live on May 9.

Through Freestyle Releasing, GMA Films’ “The Road” will be commercially released in North America and Canada markets beginning May 11. GMA Films President Annette Gozon-Abrogar said “The Road” opening in 50 commercial theaters across North America and Canada is a first for a locally-produced Filipino film.

Excited

“This will be my first trip palabas ng bansa kaya excited ako. Ang dami kong first time dito sa GMA7. First time kong napasama sa isang film na naging international. First time rin na mapasama sa film na mapapasali sa maraming international film festival. Tapos mainstream cinemas pa maipapalabas ang ‘The Road.’ So very blessed po ako sa start ng 2012,” expressed Alden.

“The Road” is also competing at the 30th Brussels International Fantastic Film Festival, the biggest genre festival in Europe, which is set from April 5 to 17. It is also competing at the 8th Fantaspoa - International Fantastic Film Festival of Porto Alegre, Brazil. It is the biggest genre festival in Latin America.

More mature role

Another excitement in Alden's career is “My Beloved,” where he plays a more mature role compared to that in “Alakdana.” Alden sad “My Beloved” lets him experiment more on the way he attacks his character. It also challenges him as an actor since he’s working with Dingdong Dantes, whom Alden looks up to.

“Nagpapasalamat naman ako at may pumupuri sa acting ko kahit papaano,” he quipped.

Alden is also working on his looks. He is stripping out his flabs for a leaner physique. He said that even if he still doesn't know his next movie, he believes it's better to prepare himself by working on a better-looking body, among others.

“Ayaw ko ng bumalik sa pagka-chubby ko. Tuloy-tuloy na ang fitness regimen ko,” he said.

As an actor, Alden is not picky with roles as long as the story is worth it. He doesn't have qualms about leaving his "tween-image" if needed.

What's important for him is that he gets to work and hone his craft.

What if his application for a US visa gets denied?

“Okay lang po. I'm excited and happy for ‘The Road,’” he replied.

By Walden Martinez Belen | Yahoo! Southeast Asia Newsroom