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The award-winning actor, who portrays twin brothers in “Drags to Riches,” says he is no longer troubled by typecasting or recurring questions about his sexuality.
MANILA — Christian Bables said he is no longer troubled by concerns that portraying LGBTQ+ characters could typecast him as he takes on another drag role in the comedy “Drags to Riches.”
During a promotional event for the film in Quezon City, Bables said one reason he continues to accept such characters is the opportunity to make audiences laugh. He also said he has become less affected by questions about his sexuality arising from the roles he plays.
Bables became widely known for playing Barbs, the loyal friend of Paolo Ballesteros’ character, in the 2016 film “Die Beautiful.” The performance earned him the Metro Manila Film Festival award for best supporting actor. He later won best actor at the Hanoi International Film Festival for “Signal Rock” and at the 2021 Metro Manila Film Festival for “Big Night!”
His other projects involving LGBTQ+ characters include “The Panti Sisters,” “Mahal Kita, Beksman,” “Drag You and Me” and “Broken Hearts Trip.” His work outside those roles includes “Signal Rock,” “Dirty Linen” and “Saving Grace.”
In interviews, Bables has identified himself as straight and described himself as an LGBTQ+ ally. That description rests on his public statements; fictional characters do not establish anything about an actor’s private life.
Bables has also addressed questions about heterosexual actors portraying LGBTQ+ characters. He has said he approaches such roles as an actor and ally seeking to help tell stories involving the community.
In “Drags to Riches,” Bables portrays twin brothers with sharply different lives: Jarold, from a corporate family, and Jonas, a drag performer recruited to take his missing brother’s place.
Iñigo Pascual plays Troye and Elijah Canlas portrays Andre, who help transform Jonas into a convincing stand-in for Jarold. K Brosas and Benjie Paras are also in the cast.
Directed by Victor Villanueva and produced by Cornerstone Studios, “Drags to Riches” opened June 24 at SM Cinemas. The film is rated R-13 and runs about one hour and 50 minutes.
Bables has presented the role as another acting choice shaped by the character, the material and the chance to connect with audiences, rather than a limitation.
