AFTER its successful and much talked-about Director's Cut preview at the UP Film Institute, "Ang Lihim ni Antonio," the new film from "Ang Lalake sa Parola" director Jay Altarejos, moves to the Robinsons Galleria cinemas for its commercial run starting February 13.

The movie features newcomer Kenji Garcia in the title role as Antonio, a curious 15-year-old beginning to come to terms with his sexuality. Unfortunately, what should have been a joyous time of sexual unfolding turns into unexpected tragedy when Antonio meets his hedonistic uncle Jonbert, who becomes the boy's sexual obsession.

A presentation of Digital Viva and Beyond the Box, "Ang Lihim ni Antonio (Antonio's Secret)" also stars Shamaine Buencamino, Josh Ivan Morales, Nino Fernandez, and Jiro Manio.

Following on the heels of "Ang Lalake sa Parola" which broke box-office records during its theatrical run also at the Galleria cinemas, "Ang Lihim ni Antonio" is expected to set new records in terms of audience attendance, especially after its SRO premiere recently at UP.

Students and film critics raved about the movie, which is said to be more explosive than its predecessor, not just in terms of theme, but in terms of what its actors were willing to show.

Lead actor Kenji Garcia says he gave his all in the film. The 5'6", 120-pound newbie makes his big screen debut in "Ang Lihim ni Antonio" and he promises that people won't be disappointed. "Ito ang first exposure ko, kaya binigay ko talaga ang lahat," he says. "Of course, nag-dalawang isip ako dahil maseselan talaga ang ibang eksena, pero ito talaga ang hinahanap ko at saka maganda naman 'yong pelikula."

He is, he adds, "very nervous, but at the same time, very proud sa nagawa ko dito."

Director Jay Altarejos says that if people raved about "Ang Lalake sa Parola," they will be even more impressed by "Ang Lihim ni Antonio."

"Sa totoo lang, mas magandang pelikula ito," he says. "Mas malinis ang acting style at pinaganda talaga lahat ng elemento, from the production design to the cinematography."

He urges people to come see the film during its commercial run, and to appreciate the film for what it is, rather than seeing it merely as a sex film, or a gay movie. "It's the boldest gay film ever in the sense na walang inhibitions ang mga actors dito. But at the same time, the boldness is also in the treatment, in the film's courage to show what really goes on in the bedroom."