Cover Netflix’s ‘Kontrabida Academy’ stars Barbie Forteza and Eugene Domingo face the media for a roundtable discussion on their new project (Photo: Netflix Philippines)
Netflix’s ‘Kontrabida Academy’ stars Barbie Forteza and Eugene Domingo face the media for a roundtable discussion on their new project (Photo: Netflix Philippines)
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Tatler talks to ‘Kontrabida Academy’ stars Barbie Forteza and Eugene Domingo. Here’s what they have to say about the value of villains in every story
Filipinos love rooting for the underdog—a pattern evident in our reactions to both teleseryes and real-world politics. We often bet on the struggler, arguably because we also see ourselves as champions of the just. That’s why it comes as a surprise that in Netflix’s Kontrabida Academy, it’s the villains who take the limelight.
“It takes a lot of courage to step into a villain’s shoes,” Barbie Forteza says about Filipino onscreen antagonists and antiheroes. “So, having done that now, I can truly say that the emotional demands of being a kontrabida are on another level.”
Forteza, who took on the role of Gigi, adds that it takes a lot of mental depth to study the background of a kontrabida role. “That’s why I really admire them.”
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Above Eugene Domingo as Mauricia in Netflix’s ‘Kontrabida Academy’ (Photo: Netflix Philippines)
Eugene Domingo as Mauricia in Netflix’s ‘Kontrabida Academy’ (Photo: Netflix Philippines)
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“Does everyone have a fire inside them? Do you think everyone has [what it takes to be] a kontrabida? A fire that needs to be unleashed? Maybe it’s a fire for something better, something more peaceful, something more welcoming in life. Is there really such a thing? I’d like to believe there is, and that’s what makes us human”
For seasoned actor for film, theatre and television Eugene Domingo, who plays Mauricia, the show poses an intriguing question: “Does everyone have a fire inside them? Do you think everyone has [what it takes to be] a kontrabida? A fire that needs to be unleashed? Maybe it’s a fire for something better, something more peaceful, something more welcoming in life. Is there really such a thing? I’d like to believe there is, and that’s what makes us human.”
Domingo points out that with the shift in contemporary storytelling, the arrival of Kontrabida Academy on a mainstream platform couldn’t be more timely. Filipinos, who once clung to the trope of the poor, soft-spoken lead, have now started rooting for the sharp-tongued, power-dressed and morally grey character.
“Things have definitely evolved,” she says. “Audiences are rooting for the kontrabida, or something a little more thrilling than the same old bida script. I’m not sure why—maybe we’re just getting bored with the usual hero story? Either way, Kontrabida Academy couldn’t have come at a better time.”
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Above Barbie Forteza as Gigi in Netflix’s ‘Kontrabida Academy’ (Photo: Netflix Philippines)
Barbie Forteza as Gigi in Netflix’s ‘Kontrabida Academy’ (Photo: Netflix Philippines)
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“Many of our kontrabidas embody a more courageous, frank and straightforward character who openly address real-life issues, whether it’s about family or themselves. They’re more direct and honest in their point of view, and I think that’s what makes them relatable”
Forteza, who rallies behind her co-actor’s point, says that the audience’s broadened perspective creates a more nuanced viewing experience. “I feel like nowadays, it’s also acceptable to root for the antagonists because we’re more socially aware,” she says.
“Many of our kontrabidas embody a more courageous, frank and straightforward character who openly address real-life issues, whether it’s about family or themselves. They’re more direct and honest in their point of view, and I think that’s what makes them relatable,” Forteza adds.
Both Forteza and Domingo know villains aren’t just mere troublemakers, but the lifeblood that keeps Filipino stories, big or small, truly unforgettable.
“We can’t deny we have very good kontrabidas in the industry. Some are no longer with us, but we don’t set aside the contributions of the antagonists when we think of the most unforgettable scenes in Filipino TV and cinema.”
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Images: Netflix Philippines
Jove holds a degree in Journalism and is currently pursuing graduate studies in Philosophy at the University of the Philippines–Diliman. She has flair for in-depth, interview-driven stories that explore politics and culture, shaped by her background in national broadsheets.
When she’s not on assignment, Jove spends her days painting, sipping lemonade, and walking her dog, Jupiter. She can often be seen in Escolta with a film camera in hand, browsing novelty shops in search of rare memorabilia. For leads, reach her at Jove@tatlerphilippines.com.
