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Captain Barbell (TV series)
Encyclopedia
Captain Barbell is a superhero
drama
television series based on a character of the same name created by Mars Ravelo
. It was aired on Philippine
television by GMA Network
during weeknights on its primetime block. The series premiered on May 29, 2006, and last aired on January 12, 2007. It also aired worldwide, with a three week delay on GMA Pinoy TV
.
Richard Gutierrez
plays the superhero
, Captain Barbell and his alter ego
, Teng. His archnemesis Viel , is played by Richard Gomez
.
The show will return to Philippine TV as it marks a sequel this 2011, Captain Barbell (2011 TV series).
. He wore the usual hero's spandex costume with the big CB logo on his chest. However, neither the actor's face was shown nor was he credited, since the producers had not decided yet who will take the role. It was intentionally done to drum beat the promotions for the upcoming series.
Different actors were considered, and several others voiced out their interest on the role. Even Richard Gutierrez
wasn't sure it will be him, so after wrapping up Sugo
, he went for a month-long vacation. GMA Network
made its final announcement on April 11, 2006.
Richard Gomez
specifically requested his role because he wants to play a dark character which he finds more challenging.
Several negotiations and concessions were made between the Ravelos and the producers team. Rita Ravelo wants the story to stay as much as possible to her father's original character. The production team on the other hand, wanted to make the series more updated and entertaining to present viewers.
which was made into TV series by GMA Network
, the first being the successful Darna
series.
Dominic Zapata
was hired to direct the series, and this was his fourth time to helm a telefantasya for the network. He was the director of Mulawin
, Darna
and Sugo
. Mike Tuviera
was also hired to be his assistant director.
The show consistently tops the ratings against its rival show on the same time slot. But it is also beaten many times by its rival show, ABS-CBN's "Kapamilya, Deal or No Deal
".
These ratings however, couldn't be independently verified, and as such these data are based on the published ratings on several local tabloids. Research companies doesn't provide the result directly to the public per se. Results are released to the TV networks who commissioned the survey, which in turn, released it to local publications.
Miles Teves, a renowned Filipino-American costume maker in Hollywood. Teves constructed the Batman
, Robocop
and Superman
costume. It was Dominic Zapata
who suggested to the producers to have the costume made by Teves.
is the center of world's research in human cloning
, genetics
and robotics
.
A young boy named Arell, together with his mother Mrs. B, are forced by his father Captain B to ride the time machine
to escape from the soldiers of the General.
The General is the mysterious, rich and powerful owner of Live Corporation, which is the pioneer in the well-advanced human cloning
and mutation
that created an army of superhuman beings for his evil schemes, which Captain B opposes. Only Captain B can fight the General because of his extraordinary strength using barbanium.
Unknown to them, the General sends Commander X, the powerful cyborg
, to destroy the barbanium with askobar.
The time machine's
destination is 1992. However, upon crash landing, Arell and his mother are separated. Arell is found in a burning wreck by a loving and elderly couple, Lolo Aloy and Lola Melay.
Lolo Aloy and Lola Melay gives him a new name—Potenciano a.k.a. Teng. The couple became his grandparents, and whose children Sandra and Cesar becomes his foster parents. Teng grows up frail, poor and constantly longing for the love and care of his parents who ignore him. Worse, Teng is maltreated by Clarisse, the daughter of Sandra and Cesar.
Teng would grow up with an ugly pockmark on one side of his otherwise very handsome face—and painfully aware that he is merely
an adopted child with a completely unknown background. Because of these incidents, Teng finds comfort in the company of his friends Kit, Bobby and Lola Melay.
The paths of Teng and his childhood friend Leah cross once again. This time, Teng realizes that he is in love with this young lady who comes from a rich family. But things turn out difficult for Teng to confess his love for Leah because the young lady has an arrogant boyfriend.
He also meets and becomes friends with Levi, the son of the richest man in the town named Viel, who is against their friendship. Unknown to Teng, it is Viel who is responsible for the death of Lolo Aloy.
One night, the group of Jared, Leah’s boyfriend, gangs up on Teng and leaves him beaten in a junkyard. Teng then discovers the powerful barbell. This barbell is the key to Teng’s destiny in becoming the most powerful Pinoy superhero known as Captain Barbell!
Meanwhile, the death of Captain B (Paolo Bediones) at the hands of Commander X lead Mrs. B (Angel Aquino) and Boris (JC De Vera) to use their time machine to go back to the future where Captain B is still alive. They find him and they travelled back in time to meet the still innocent Teng. The Barbell family then recounts to Teng the adventures of Captain Barbell and the women in his life.
Now, Teng must find a way to acquire the barbell plate as soon as possible and to stop the General. With enough knowledge of the future, he could also change his destiny and save the death of his Lolo Aloy. Indeed, he successfully saved his Lolo Aloy but his Lola Melay died as a trade off from a new unseen event at the hands of Commander X.
Like the Barbell family, the General recounts the future to Levi to get him to trust him and make him Super Levi this time early. General then kidnapped Kit and Leah to make Captain Barbell choose who he will save between the two. He saved both of them but again at the cost of Boris' life crushed by the hands of the giant robot Automaton C piloted by Super Levi. Mrs. B was also kidnapped to make Teng surrender his Barbanium plate and be killed by Super Levi. The shattering revelation by Mrs. B that Teng is General's son from the future averted Teng's death but lead to the General's death.
Teng by this time realized and confessed his love for Kit but after that confession, Super Levi again piloted the Automaton C and took Kit. She died to get Teng his Barbanium plate. A furious Captain Barbell defeated Super Levi and Automaton C. All the deaths in the past forced Teng to return to the future with his family to take his time off just as the catatonic past Viel awakens.
3 Years Later...
An Automaton C appeared out of nowhere and captured Leah. As Leah screams helplessly, Captain Barbell appears and saved her. Then he left telling her that he still needs to save Metro Manila with a big smile in his face.
Superhero
A superhero is a type of stock character, possessing "extraordinary or superhuman powers", dedicated to protecting the public. Since the debut of the prototypical superhero Superman in 1938, stories of superheroes — ranging from brief episodic adventures to continuing years-long sagas —...
drama
Drama
Drama is the specific mode of fiction represented in performance. The term comes from a Greek word meaning "action" , which is derived from "to do","to act" . The enactment of drama in theatre, performed by actors on a stage before an audience, presupposes collaborative modes of production and a...
television series based on a character of the same name created by Mars Ravelo
Mars Ravelo
Mars Ravelo was a Filipino graphic novelist who created the characters Darna, Dyesebel, Captain Barbell, Lastikman, Bondying, Varga, Wanted: Perfect Mother, Hiwaga, Maruja, Mariposa, Roberta, Rita, Buhay Pilipino, Jack and Jill, Flash Bomba, Tiny Tony, and Dragonna among others.-Biography:Mars...
. It was aired on Philippine
Philippines
The Philippines , officially known as the Republic of the Philippines , is a country in Southeast Asia in the western Pacific Ocean. To its north across the Luzon Strait lies Taiwan. West across the South China Sea sits Vietnam...
television by GMA Network
GMA Network
GMA Network is a major commercial television & radio network in the Philippines. GMA Network is owned by GMA Network, Inc. a publicly listed company...
during weeknights on its primetime block. The series premiered on May 29, 2006, and last aired on January 12, 2007. It also aired worldwide, with a three week delay on GMA Pinoy TV
GMA Pinoy TV
GMA Pinoy TV, incorporated in February 2004 by GMA Network and its subsidiaries GMA International & GMA Worldwide and launched in 2005 primarily in Japan and USA, is a 24-hour international Filipino television station. The channel is targeted towards Overseas Filipino and their families in the...
.
Richard Gutierrez
Richard Gutiérrez
Richard Kristian Rama Gutierrez, popularly known as Richard Gutierrez , is a television actor and commercial model who works in Filipino productions.-Biography:Gutierrez is the son of Eduardo P...
plays the superhero
Superhero
A superhero is a type of stock character, possessing "extraordinary or superhuman powers", dedicated to protecting the public. Since the debut of the prototypical superhero Superman in 1938, stories of superheroes — ranging from brief episodic adventures to continuing years-long sagas —...
, Captain Barbell and his alter ego
Alter ego
An alter ego is a second self, which is believe to be distinct from a person's normal or original personality. The term was coined in the early nineteenth century when dissociative identity disorder was first described by psychologists...
, Teng. His archnemesis Viel , is played by Richard Gomez
Richard Gomez
Richard Gomez is a Filipino actor, comedian, model, athlete, television presenter, and director. He is one of the famous actors in Philippine Cinema. He graduated from the Polytechnic University of the Philippines.-Biography and Career:Gomez was raised by his grandmother...
.
The show will return to Philippine TV as it marks a sequel this 2011, Captain Barbell (2011 TV series).
Pre-production
Captain Barbell first appeared in the series finale of DarnaDarna (TV series)
Darna is a 2005 drama fantasy action television series based on the Mars Ravelo's fictional character of the same name and a loose adaptation of the 2003 Mars Ravelo's Darna Miniseries by Mango Comics...
. He wore the usual hero's spandex costume with the big CB logo on his chest. However, neither the actor's face was shown nor was he credited, since the producers had not decided yet who will take the role. It was intentionally done to drum beat the promotions for the upcoming series.
Different actors were considered, and several others voiced out their interest on the role. Even Richard Gutierrez
Richard Gutiérrez
Richard Kristian Rama Gutierrez, popularly known as Richard Gutierrez , is a television actor and commercial model who works in Filipino productions.-Biography:Gutierrez is the son of Eduardo P...
wasn't sure it will be him, so after wrapping up Sugo
Sugo
Sugo, The Chosen One in English, is a fantasy Philippine drama that aired on GMA Network from July 2005 to January 2006 starring Richard Gutierrez.-Plot:...
, he went for a month-long vacation. GMA Network
GMA Network
GMA Network is a major commercial television & radio network in the Philippines. GMA Network is owned by GMA Network, Inc. a publicly listed company...
made its final announcement on April 11, 2006.
Richard Gomez
Richard Gomez
Richard Gomez is a Filipino actor, comedian, model, athlete, television presenter, and director. He is one of the famous actors in Philippine Cinema. He graduated from the Polytechnic University of the Philippines.-Biography and Career:Gomez was raised by his grandmother...
specifically requested his role because he wants to play a dark character which he finds more challenging.
Several negotiations and concessions were made between the Ravelos and the producers team. Rita Ravelo wants the story to stay as much as possible to her father's original character. The production team on the other hand, wanted to make the series more updated and entertaining to present viewers.
Production Crew
This is the second pinoy superhero created by Mars RaveloMars Ravelo
Mars Ravelo was a Filipino graphic novelist who created the characters Darna, Dyesebel, Captain Barbell, Lastikman, Bondying, Varga, Wanted: Perfect Mother, Hiwaga, Maruja, Mariposa, Roberta, Rita, Buhay Pilipino, Jack and Jill, Flash Bomba, Tiny Tony, and Dragonna among others.-Biography:Mars...
which was made into TV series by GMA Network
GMA Network
GMA Network is a major commercial television & radio network in the Philippines. GMA Network is owned by GMA Network, Inc. a publicly listed company...
, the first being the successful Darna
Darna (TV series)
Darna is a 2005 drama fantasy action television series based on the Mars Ravelo's fictional character of the same name and a loose adaptation of the 2003 Mars Ravelo's Darna Miniseries by Mango Comics...
series.
Dominic Zapata
Dominic Zapata
Dominic Zapata , is a Filipino television and film director. He is a graduate of De La Salle University-Manila and Don Bosco High School...
was hired to direct the series, and this was his fourth time to helm a telefantasya for the network. He was the director of Mulawin
Mulawin
Mulawin is a speculative fiction Television drama series about two races of winged humanoids. The Mulawin must fight the Ravena to protect the mortals from its wrath. It tells the story of Aguiluz portrayed by Richard Gutierrez and Alwina which was portrayed by Angel Locsin.It was originally aired...
, Darna
Darna (TV series)
Darna is a 2005 drama fantasy action television series based on the Mars Ravelo's fictional character of the same name and a loose adaptation of the 2003 Mars Ravelo's Darna Miniseries by Mango Comics...
and Sugo
Sugo
Sugo, The Chosen One in English, is a fantasy Philippine drama that aired on GMA Network from July 2005 to January 2006 starring Richard Gutierrez.-Plot:...
. Mike Tuviera
Mike Tuviera
Michael Tuviera is an acclaimed Filipino film director, TV director and music video director. He is known for his stylized filming techniques. He is the son of TAPE Inc. chairman, Antonio Tuviera....
was also hired to be his assistant director.
- Script/Story: Mars RaveloMars RaveloMars Ravelo was a Filipino graphic novelist who created the characters Darna, Dyesebel, Captain Barbell, Lastikman, Bondying, Varga, Wanted: Perfect Mother, Hiwaga, Maruja, Mariposa, Roberta, Rita, Buhay Pilipino, Jack and Jill, Flash Bomba, Tiny Tony, and Dragonna among others.-Biography:Mars...
for title character, RJ Nuevas for TV series - Creative Consultant: Rita Ravelo
- Custome Design: CAPTAIN BARBELL's Yellow & Red Modern costume was designed by Artist RENO MANIQUIS. He was commissioned by the Mars Ravelo Marvelous Characters Inc. to design the new official costume.
- Costume Maker/Manufacturer of Captain Barbell's suit is Miles Teves Miles Teves (based on the design of Reno Maniquis.)
Local TV Ratings
According to AGB Nielsen Philippines, Captain Barbell's pilot episode on May 29, 2006 garnered a 37.5% rating. The series got its first 40's ratings of 41.2% the following night on its second episode. Its final episode got a rating of 35.4 %. But before the finale. After 3 months from its pilot episode, its ratings began to plummet, decline and flip flop, but still it is victorious in its finale ratings in 'Mega Manila Area TV Ratings Data' conducted by AGB Nielsen Philippines.- First Appearance of Captain Barbell - 38%
- Highest Rating Earned - 43.7%
- Lowest Rating Earned - 26%
- Finale Episode Ratings (Mega Manila Area Only) - 35.4%
The show consistently tops the ratings against its rival show on the same time slot. But it is also beaten many times by its rival show, ABS-CBN's "Kapamilya, Deal or No Deal
Kapamilya, Deal or No Deal
Kapamilya, Deal or No Deal is the Philippine franchise of Deal or No Deal, hosted by Filipino actress, TV & game show host, Kris Aquino, which premiered on June 5, 2006 on ABS-CBN....
".
These ratings however, couldn't be independently verified, and as such these data are based on the published ratings on several local tabloids. Research companies doesn't provide the result directly to the public per se. Results are released to the TV networks who commissioned the survey, which in turn, released it to local publications.
Barbell, Barbanium & Askobar
- Barbell - a palm-size golden medallion-barbell plate with "CB" engraved on its center. The name "Captain B" is also depicted on the medallion. Teng twists the medallion and it forms into a barbell, he then raises it and shouts "Captain Barbell" to transform himself into the superheroSuperheroA superhero is a type of stock character, possessing "extraordinary or superhuman powers", dedicated to protecting the public. Since the debut of the prototypical superhero Superman in 1938, stories of superheroes — ranging from brief episodic adventures to continuing years-long sagas —...
. As Captain Barbell, the medallion is depicted on his chest; he grabs it back to transform to his alter egoAlter egoAn alter ego is a second self, which is believe to be distinct from a person's normal or original personality. The term was coined in the early nineteenth century when dissociative identity disorder was first described by psychologists...
, Teng. The medallion is said to be made from barbanium.
- Barbanium - a powerful fictional element discovered in the year 2016 by scientist in the PhilippinesPhilippinesThe Philippines , officially known as the Republic of the Philippines , is a country in Southeast Asia in the western Pacific Ocean. To its north across the Luzon Strait lies Taiwan. West across the South China Sea sits Vietnam...
.
- Askobar - "Asido Kontra Barbanium" is the only equally powerful fictional element that can counter barbanium's power. It can be crystallized and used in many ways. It is used to power a cyborgCyborgA cyborg is a being with both biological and artificial parts. The term was coined in 1960 when Manfred Clynes and Nathan S. Kline used it in an article about the advantages of self-regulating human-machine systems in outer space. D. S...
, and also molded into a bullet which deteriorates anything it touches. Coincidentally, Viel also called the element Askobar, but with a different meaning, "Asido Kontra Barbell".
The General and The Villains
- A logo of two Vs aligned vertically inside a circle can always be found on the General's creations like Captain and Mrs. B. This very same logo, on the other hand, this is also the s logo. This led to the conclusion that the General will emerge from the bloodline of family.
- LIVE Corporation is the name of the General's conglomerate during the time of Neo Metropolis (a futuristic Philippine city). The word LIVE is an anagramAnagramAn anagram is a type of word play, the result of rearranging the letters of a word or phrase to produce a new word or phrase, using all the original letters exactly once; e.g., orchestra = carthorse, A decimal point = I'm a dot in place, Tom Marvolo Riddle = I am Lord Voldemort. Someone who...
of both Viel and Levi, members of the family, so it therefore leaves to either one of them who will be the General in the future.
- It's now known that Viel is the General. As to how he became the general is yet to be revealed.
Captain Barbell's Origin
- Captain Barbell is a FilipinoFilipino peopleThe Filipino people or Filipinos are an Austronesian ethnic group native to the islands of the Philippines. There are about 92 million Filipinos in the Philippines, and about 11 million living outside the Philippines ....
earthlingEarthlingEarthling is a term commonly used in science fiction to identify humans as opposed to extraterrestrials. The literary effect aimed for is a distancing effect, inviting the readers to contemplate their own species as it might be seen from an external point of view...
who came from the Philippine's distant future, and was sent back to the past.
- His real name was Arell, the son of Captain B and Mrs. B.
- He was renamed Potenciano "Teng/Enteng" Magtanggol by the elderly couple who found him.
Captain Barbell's Abilities
- Flight - the power to fly.
- Strength - an extraordinary strength.
- ESP - extra-sensory perceptionExtra-sensory perceptionExtrasensory perception involves reception of information not gained through the recognized physical senses but sensed with the mind. The term was coined by Frederic Myers, and adopted by Duke University psychologist J. B. Rhine to denote psychic abilities such as telepathy, clairaudience, and...
.
Captain Barbell's Suit
- Captain Barbell's suit was designed by Filipino artist Reno Maniquis and was constructed in Hollywood by Miles Teves. He was commissioned by Zaldy & Gina Ravelo of Mars Ravelo Marvelous Characters, Inc. to design the new look to make it CB’s official costume.
Miles Teves, a renowned Filipino-American costume maker in Hollywood. Teves constructed the Batman
Batman Begins
Batman Begins is a 2005 American superhero action film based on the fictional DC Comics character Batman, directed by Christopher Nolan. It stars Christian Bale as Batman, along with Michael Caine, Gary Oldman, Liam Neeson, Katie Holmes, Cillian Murphy, Morgan Freeman, Ken Watanabe, Tom Wilkinson,...
, Robocop
RoboCop
RoboCop is a 1987 American science fiction-action film directed by Paul Verhoeven. Set in a crime-ridden Detroit, Michigan in the near future, RoboCop centers on a police officer who is brutally murdered and subsequently re-created as a super-human cyborg known as "RoboCop"...
and Superman
Superman Returns
Superman Returns is a 2006 superhero film directed by Bryan Singer. It is the fifth and final installment in the original Superman film series and serves as a alternate sequel to Superman and Superman II by ignoring the events of Superman III and Superman IV: The Quest for Peace .The film stars...
costume. It was Dominic Zapata
Dominic Zapata
Dominic Zapata , is a Filipino television and film director. He is a graduate of De La Salle University-Manila and Don Bosco High School...
who suggested to the producers to have the costume made by Teves.
- The updated suit is a far cry from the SupermanSupermanSuperman is a fictional comic book superhero appearing in publications by DC Comics, widely considered to be an American cultural icon. Created by American writer Jerry Siegel and Canadian-born American artist Joe Shuster in 1932 while both were living in Cleveland, Ohio, and sold to Detective...
inspired spandex tight fitting suit in shades of yellow, blue and red. The present suit is inspired by the muscular BatmanBatman BeginsBatman Begins is a 2005 American superhero action film based on the fictional DC Comics character Batman, directed by Christopher Nolan. It stars Christian Bale as Batman, along with Michael Caine, Gary Oldman, Liam Neeson, Katie Holmes, Cillian Murphy, Morgan Freeman, Ken Watanabe, Tom Wilkinson,...
's costume, minus the mask and in shades of yellow for the suit, gold for CB logo and other embellishments, and red for the cape.
- The suit has a built-in cooling mechanism, so Richard GutierrezRichard GutiérrezRichard Kristian Rama Gutierrez, popularly known as Richard Gutierrez , is a television actor and commercial model who works in Filipino productions.-Biography:Gutierrez is the son of Eduardo P...
is very comfortable inside it, to the point where he apparently lounges around the set wearing it, even between takes.
- The suit reportedly costs $50,000 excluding the charges for repairs in case of damages, making it the most expensive costume ever made for a single character in a PhilippinePhilippinesThe Philippines , officially known as the Republic of the Philippines , is a country in Southeast Asia in the western Pacific Ocean. To its north across the Luzon Strait lies Taiwan. West across the South China Sea sits Vietnam...
movie or TV series, for that matter.
- GMA NetworkGMA NetworkGMA Network is a major commercial television & radio network in the Philippines. GMA Network is owned by GMA Network, Inc. a publicly listed company...
was so secretive about how the Captain Barbell costume looked that on the first taping day, Richard Gutierrez was made to put on a robe on top of the suit. It was only when he had to face the camera as Captain Barbell that everyone on the cast and crew had a chance to see the costume for the very first time.
Captain Barbell's Enemies
- Ordinary humans who had somehow direct or indirect contact with barbanium and askobar became mutants with different powers.
- Cyborgs which are half-human/half-machine powered by askobar. At present, there are four known cyborgs: Commander X, Cyborg 5564, Cyborg 5566, and Ex-O.
- The General is the mysterious villain of Captain Barbell whose identity is Viel .
- Every week or so, a new villain is being introduced whose participation could last a week or more, depending on the story arcStory arcA story arc is an extended or continuing storyline in episodic storytelling media such as television, comic books, comic strips, boardgames, video games, and in some cases, films. On a television program, for example, the story would unfold over many episodes. In television, the use of the story...
. - cabtain barbell was very strong and very clever.
Captain Barbell's Filming Locations
- Futuristic Philippines/Interior shots of 's mansion, laboratory and technopark is being shot in the former soundstage of EncantadiaEncantadiaEncantadia is a Filipino fantasy television series produced by GMA Network. The pilot episode was aired on May 2, 2005. Its last episode was aired on December 9 of the same year to give way to its second book, Etheria. This series aired its pilot episode on December 12, and its last episode on...
. Observant fans of EncantadiaEncantadiaEncantadia is a Filipino fantasy television series produced by GMA Network. The pilot episode was aired on May 2, 2005. Its last episode was aired on December 9 of the same year to give way to its second book, Etheria. This series aired its pilot episode on December 12, and its last episode on...
could noticed how some of the original set was recycled for the present series.
- Town of Marravelos - is the fictional childhood town of Teng. ??? is being used as location for the scenes depicting it.
Main Characters
- Captain Barbell/Arell/Potenciano Magtanggol aka Teng - was catapulted from the 22nd century to the present time. He was found by an elderly couple, who renamed him Teng and adopted him as their grandson. Even from youth, he exhibited remarkable physical prowess but it was not until he found the mystical golden medallion-barbell plate that he obtained the ability to transform into Captain Barbell. This barbell has properties beyond transforming Teng, it also gives him his strength when not in Captain Barbell form. The abilities that the element endows Teng seems to be limited to only enhanced physical athletism along with flight and enhanced perception, making him less versatile than Darna who happens to wield several psychic powers at her arsenal Captain Barbell/Arell/Teng is played by Richard GutierrezRichard GutiérrezRichard Kristian Rama Gutierrez, popularly known as Richard Gutierrez , is a television actor and commercial model who works in Filipino productions.-Biography:Gutierrez is the son of Eduardo P...
.
- Viel - is the wealthy patriarch of the family and head of Corp. He is an obsessive man with a tendency to control and manipulate people, including his own sons. Viel is fascinated by the remarkable abilities of Captain Barbell. His fascination is boosted by the fact that he suffers from an ailment that he believes only Captain Barbells blood can permanently cure. He has hired a scientist named Dexter, who specializes in roboticsRoboticsRobotics is the branch of technology that deals with the design, construction, operation, structural disposition, manufacture and application of robots...
and geneticsGeneticsGenetics , a discipline of biology, is the science of genes, heredity, and variation in living organisms....
to make some experiments for his own benefit. Viel is played by Richard GomezRichard GomezRichard Gomez is a Filipino actor, comedian, model, athlete, television presenter, and director. He is one of the famous actors in Philippine Cinema. He graduated from the Polytechnic University of the Philippines.-Biography and Career:Gomez was raised by his grandmother...
.
- Leah Lazaro - is the daughter of the Marravelos town mayor, and also the campus princess. She is often the subject of his fathers verbal abuse who is a belligerent drunkard. She used to date Jared until he was transformed into a monstrous wasp-creature. She is the object of Tengs unrequited affections, and as such, has been saved by Captain Barbell more than once. Leah is played by Rhian Denise Ramos.
- Marikit "Kit" Salvacion - is one of Tengs best friends. A bossy, smart-mouthed girl who is frequently pegged as a tomboy. Although shed like to deny it, Kit has romantic feelings for Teng, a fact that she has confessed to Bobby. Teng later realizes that he loves Kit more than Leah. Kit is played by Camille PratsCamille PratsCamille Prats is a Filipina actress. Her full name is Sheena Patricia Camille Quiambao Prats. After her pregnancy, she came back on her Home Network GMA-7 to play Lily Cervantes in the drama series Gaano Kadalas Ang Minsan?...
.
- Boris - is Captain Barbells brother who first appeared as a villain. He is reunited with Teng and his family after knowing that Viel is just using him in his plans. Borris is played by Vic Sotto.
- Bobby - is one of Tengs best friends. A frequent joker who seldom takes anything seriously, and is frequently teased for his weight. The fact that he really likes to eat does little to stave off those remarks. In one episode, he was referred to as Captain Baboy (baboy, meaning pig in English language), in reference to his compulsive eating habits. Bobby is aware of Tengs superheroic alter ego, and is his confidant. Bobby is played by Ryan Yllana.
- Levi - is the eldest son of Viel . A spoiled rich kid, Levi is regarded by his father as a weakling in desperate need of lethal character transformation in order to deserve the legacy. He is in desperate need for his fathers approval. Teng rescued Levi from a car accident, and it is from this incident that they have built an awkward friendship. Levi is played by Patrick GarciaPatrick GarciaPatrick Garcia is a Filipino actor, best known for his role as Ryan in the acclaimed Philippine movie, Madrasta and Nathanael Cordero in the TV series "Darating ang Umaga".-Early life:...
.
- Cesar and Sandra Magtanggol - are Tengs adoptive parents. Tengs place in the family was a decision made by Cesars father, Lolo Aloy, and as such their feelings toward him are rather conflicted. Sandra refuses to accept Teng, let alone as a replacement child for Clarisse, the daughter she lost many years ago. Cesar is generally sympathetic, but avoids making such a sentiment too obvious to Sandra. Cesar and Sandra are played by Ricky DavaoRicky DavaoRicardo Manuel Caballes Davao , better known as Ricky Davao, is a Filipino actor. He is the husband of actress Jackie Lou Blanco. He is the younger brother of Bing Davao and the son of Charlie Davao.-Television:...
and Jackie Lou Blanco.
- Captain B/Prof Brando - He is the biological father of Arell/Teng. Captain B is Played by Paolo BedionesPaolo BedionesPaolo Bediones is a Filipino commercial model, television host, journalist, newscaster, and radio announcer.Bediones started his career as a commercial model, and later transitioned to television show hosting. He is best known for hosting GMA Network's Extra Challenge and Survivor Philippines...
.
- Barbara/Mrs. B - is the wife of Viel , and stepmother to his sons. She had little memory of her life before she became a part of the family. When she recovers her memories, she realizes that she was Mrs. B and the birth mother of Arell but was separated from him upon re-entry into the 20th century. She was surgically altered by Viel and it is implied that he is also responsible for maintaining her memory gaps. She eventually finds out that Captain Barbell is Teng, who is also Arell, her son shes been looking for. Mrs. B is played by Snooky SernaSnooky SernaSnooky Serna is a Filipina film and television actress.-Early life:Being the daughter of actors Von Serna and Mila Ocampo, she started acting early in life via her 1970 landmark debut Wanted: Perfect Mother, where she immediately captured the hearts of Filipino audience as a cute, sweet and...
; Barbara is played by Angel Aquino.
- Abel - Abel is the bossy janitor Teng works with. He claims it was Tengs fault that his father was fired from his job, and for that, he always gives Teng a hard time doing his job. Abel also extorts money from Ms. Patti since he knows she has a crush on him. Abel is played by Ryan EigenmannRyan EigenmannRyan Jonathan Villa Eigenmann is a Filipino actor known for his villain roles. He often plays as a bad guy in the shows.-Early life:Ryan Eigenmann was born on October 3, 1978. He is one of the third generation of the Mesa-Gil clan of actors. His grandparents are musician Eddie Mesa and actress...
.
- Chari - Chari is Leahs best friend. She doesn't quite like how Teng always hangs out with Leah. Chari is played by Mellisa Avelino.
Supervillain/Ally Characters
NOTE: This list is in order of appearance as villain(v) or ally(a), and not as per first screen appearance.- Narciso/Bubog played by Dino Guevarra(v)
- Jared/Putakti/Cyborg 5564 played by Jeremy Marquez(v)
- Tenorio/Tetano played by Gary EstradaGary EstradaGary Ejercito, better known as Gary Estrada, is a television and movie star in the Philippines. He is renowned for his movies, athletic physique, and cleanly handsome face...
(v) - Ador/Adobe played by Carlos Morales(v)
- Ms. Patti/Ms. Aero/Aerobika played by Rufa Mae QuintoRufa Mae QuintoRufa Mae Quinto is a Filipino actress, comedienne, and television host.Quinto has won four PMPC Star Awards and is one of the most bankable stars in the industry with top grosser films like Apat, Dapat- Dapat, Apat, Pasukob, Desperadas, Manay Po 2, I.T.A.L.Y. & Desperadas 2...
/Marissa Sanchez(v) - Marvin/Vaporo played by Jay Aquitania(v)
- Cyborg 5566 played by Jason HsuJason HsuJason Hsu is a member of the Taiwanese boyband 5566. He is known in the Philippines for playing the role of Cyborg 5566 in an episode of Captain Barbell.-Television roles:-References:...
(v) - Blanca/Clarisse Magtanggol/Ex-O played by Sunshine DizonSunshine DizonSunshine Dizon is a Filipina actress. She started in show business when she was three years old.-Biography:...
(v) - Myra Lazaro played by Pinky AmadorPinky AmadorPinky Amador is an award winning Filipina actress, singer, commercial model and TV host.She was in the original London cast of the Cameron Mackintosh musical hit Miss Saigon.She is seen most on GMA Network....
(v) - Ruben/Black Out played by Wendell RamosWendell RamosWendell Xavier Ramos, known as Wendell Ramos is a Filipino actor and model who is currently signed to Associated Broadcasting Company.-Biography and career:...
(v) - Madame Aurora Salvacion/Lady Amorseko played by Elizabeth Oropesa(v)(a)
- Barbara/Mrs. B/Maskaradong Bandido/MB played by Angel Aquino(a)
- Coach Dribol and Askoboys played by Bong Alvarez and Antonio Aquitania(v)
- Magna/Magnetica played by Mylene DizonMylene DizonMylene Lilibeth Dizon is a Filipina actress and model. She is a member of ABS-CBN's elite circle of homegrown talents properly named Star Magic, being an alumna of Batch 2...
(v) - Boris/Super Boris played by JC de VeraJC de VeraJohn Carlo de Vera, better known by his screen name J.C. de Vera , is a Filipino actor and model.-Biography and career:...
(v) - Prof. Brando/Captain B played by Paolo BedionesPaolo BedionesPaolo Bediones is a Filipino commercial model, television host, journalist, newscaster, and radio announcer.Bediones started his career as a commercial model, and later transitioned to television show hosting. He is best known for hosting GMA Network's Extra Challenge and Survivor Philippines...
(a) - Mercy/Mercurio played by John LapusJohn LapusJonathan Anthony Lapus is a Filipino actor, host and comedian.-Biography:...
(v) - Levi/Captain Barbell impostor/Super Levi played by Patrick GarciaPatrick GarciaPatrick Garcia is a Filipino actor, best known for his role as Ryan in the acclaimed Philippine movie, Madrasta and Nathanael Cordero in the TV series "Darating ang Umaga".-Early life:...
(v) - Leah/Super Leah played by Rhian Denise Ramos(a)
- Kit played by Camille PratsCamille PratsCamille Prats is a Filipina actress. Her full name is Sheena Patricia Camille Quiambao Prats. After her pregnancy, she came back on her Home Network GMA-7 to play Lily Cervantes in the drama series Gaano Kadalas Ang Minsan?...
(a) - Commander X played by Ian Veneracion(v)
- Viel /General played by Richard GomezRichard GomezRichard Gomez is a Filipino actor, comedian, model, athlete, television presenter, and director. He is one of the famous actors in Philippine Cinema. He graduated from the Polytechnic University of the Philippines.-Biography and Career:Gomez was raised by his grandmother...
(v) - Automaton C(v)
Other Characters
- Gloria Sevilla as Lola Melay, grandmother of Teng.
- Dante RiveroDante RiveroDante Rivero is a FAMAS award-winning and Gawad Urian Award-nominated Filipino film and television actor.-Television :-Movies:*2002 Bro.....
as Lolo Aloy, grandfather of Teng. - Paolo BedionesPaolo BedionesPaolo Bediones is a Filipino commercial model, television host, journalist, newscaster, and radio announcer.Bediones started his career as a commercial model, and later transitioned to television show hosting. He is best known for hosting GMA Network's Extra Challenge and Survivor Philippines...
as Captain B, biological father of Arell. - John Regala as Mayor Lazaro, father of Leah.
- Rez Cortez as Officer Joe Salvacion, father of Kit.
- Tricia Roman as TV field reporter
- Ces QuesadaCes QuesadaCes Quesada is a Filipino actress and also a TV host. She is currently signed with GMA Network.-Television:2011 Captain barbell Tiya lita GMA network-References:...
as Agness, aunt of leah
Plot
Captain Barbell begins in the year 2106, a futuristic time when PhilippinesPhilippines
The Philippines , officially known as the Republic of the Philippines , is a country in Southeast Asia in the western Pacific Ocean. To its north across the Luzon Strait lies Taiwan. West across the South China Sea sits Vietnam...
is the center of world's research in human cloning
Human cloning
Human cloning is the creation of a genetically identical copy of a human. It does not usually refer to monozygotic multiple births nor the reproduction of human cells or tissue. The ethics of cloning is an extremely controversial issue...
, genetics
Genetics
Genetics , a discipline of biology, is the science of genes, heredity, and variation in living organisms....
and robotics
Robotics
Robotics is the branch of technology that deals with the design, construction, operation, structural disposition, manufacture and application of robots...
.
A young boy named Arell, together with his mother Mrs. B, are forced by his father Captain B to ride the time machine
Time travel
Time travel is the concept of moving between different points in time in a manner analogous to moving between different points in space. Time travel could hypothetically involve moving backward in time to a moment earlier than the starting point, or forward to the future of that point without the...
to escape from the soldiers of the General.
The General is the mysterious, rich and powerful owner of Live Corporation, which is the pioneer in the well-advanced human cloning
Human cloning
Human cloning is the creation of a genetically identical copy of a human. It does not usually refer to monozygotic multiple births nor the reproduction of human cells or tissue. The ethics of cloning is an extremely controversial issue...
and mutation
Mutation
In molecular biology and genetics, mutations are changes in a genomic sequence: the DNA sequence of a cell's genome or the DNA or RNA sequence of a virus. They can be defined as sudden and spontaneous changes in the cell. Mutations are caused by radiation, viruses, transposons and mutagenic...
that created an army of superhuman beings for his evil schemes, which Captain B opposes. Only Captain B can fight the General because of his extraordinary strength using barbanium.
Unknown to them, the General sends Commander X, the powerful cyborg
Cyborg
A cyborg is a being with both biological and artificial parts. The term was coined in 1960 when Manfred Clynes and Nathan S. Kline used it in an article about the advantages of self-regulating human-machine systems in outer space. D. S...
, to destroy the barbanium with askobar.
The time machine's
Time travel
Time travel is the concept of moving between different points in time in a manner analogous to moving between different points in space. Time travel could hypothetically involve moving backward in time to a moment earlier than the starting point, or forward to the future of that point without the...
destination is 1992. However, upon crash landing, Arell and his mother are separated. Arell is found in a burning wreck by a loving and elderly couple, Lolo Aloy and Lola Melay.
Lolo Aloy and Lola Melay gives him a new name—Potenciano a.k.a. Teng. The couple became his grandparents, and whose children Sandra and Cesar becomes his foster parents. Teng grows up frail, poor and constantly longing for the love and care of his parents who ignore him. Worse, Teng is maltreated by Clarisse, the daughter of Sandra and Cesar.
Teng would grow up with an ugly pockmark on one side of his otherwise very handsome face—and painfully aware that he is merely
an adopted child with a completely unknown background. Because of these incidents, Teng finds comfort in the company of his friends Kit, Bobby and Lola Melay.
The paths of Teng and his childhood friend Leah cross once again. This time, Teng realizes that he is in love with this young lady who comes from a rich family. But things turn out difficult for Teng to confess his love for Leah because the young lady has an arrogant boyfriend.
He also meets and becomes friends with Levi, the son of the richest man in the town named Viel, who is against their friendship. Unknown to Teng, it is Viel who is responsible for the death of Lolo Aloy.
One night, the group of Jared, Leah’s boyfriend, gangs up on Teng and leaves him beaten in a junkyard. Teng then discovers the powerful barbell. This barbell is the key to Teng’s destiny in becoming the most powerful Pinoy superhero known as Captain Barbell!
Finale
The powerful General (Viel ) from the future having exhausted most of his forces and getting impatient to kill Captain Barbell travelled back in time along with Commander X and some cyborg forces to kill Teng before he finds the Barbanium plate. By doing so, Levi will not be killed by Captain Barbell and he finally defeat his arch nemesis once and for all. He dropped by the Mansion, made his past self catatonic, and reveals his plans to Levi.Meanwhile, the death of Captain B (Paolo Bediones) at the hands of Commander X lead Mrs. B (Angel Aquino) and Boris (JC De Vera) to use their time machine to go back to the future where Captain B is still alive. They find him and they travelled back in time to meet the still innocent Teng. The Barbell family then recounts to Teng the adventures of Captain Barbell and the women in his life.
Now, Teng must find a way to acquire the barbell plate as soon as possible and to stop the General. With enough knowledge of the future, he could also change his destiny and save the death of his Lolo Aloy. Indeed, he successfully saved his Lolo Aloy but his Lola Melay died as a trade off from a new unseen event at the hands of Commander X.
Like the Barbell family, the General recounts the future to Levi to get him to trust him and make him Super Levi this time early. General then kidnapped Kit and Leah to make Captain Barbell choose who he will save between the two. He saved both of them but again at the cost of Boris' life crushed by the hands of the giant robot Automaton C piloted by Super Levi. Mrs. B was also kidnapped to make Teng surrender his Barbanium plate and be killed by Super Levi. The shattering revelation by Mrs. B that Teng is General's son from the future averted Teng's death but lead to the General's death.
Teng by this time realized and confessed his love for Kit but after that confession, Super Levi again piloted the Automaton C and took Kit. She died to get Teng his Barbanium plate. A furious Captain Barbell defeated Super Levi and Automaton C. All the deaths in the past forced Teng to return to the future with his family to take his time off just as the catatonic past Viel awakens.
3 Years Later...
An Automaton C appeared out of nowhere and captured Leah. As Leah screams helplessly, Captain Barbell appears and saved her. Then he left telling her that he still needs to save Metro Manila with a big smile in his face.
Soundtrack
There is no definitive soundtrack, but the following songs have been played for the series.- Nandito Lang Ako (I'm Just Here) - Captain Barbell's official theme, performed by ShamrockShamrockThe shamrock is a three-leafed old white clover. It is known as a symbol of Ireland. The name shamrock is derived from Irish , which is the diminutive version of the Irish word for clover ....
.
- Sana - Captain Barbell's love theme, performed by ShamrockShamrockThe shamrock is a three-leafed old white clover. It is known as a symbol of Ireland. The name shamrock is derived from Irish , which is the diminutive version of the Irish word for clover ....
.
List Captain Barbell Movies
Captain Barbell has made several excursions onto the big screen. Here is a chronological list of the previous film incarnations of Captain Barbell:- Captain Barbell (1964)
- Premiered: May 9, 1964
- Produced by: D'Lanor Productions
- Directed by: Herminio 'Butch' Bautista
- Starring: Bob Soler as Captain Barbell, Dolphy as Tenteng
- Captain Barbell Kontra Captain Bakal (1965)
- Premiered: June 23, 1965
- Produced by: Cirio H Santiago
- Directed by: Ruben Rustia
- Starring: Wilie Sotelo as Captain Barbell, Nancy Roman as Joni, Carlos Padilla Jr. as Dario
- Captain Barbell Boom! (1973)
- Premiered: December, 1973
- Produced by: RVQ Productions
- Directed by: Jose (Pepe) Wenceslao
- Starring: Dolphy as Tingting/Captain Barbell, Lotis Key, Panchito, Babalu Maricel Soriano
- Captain Barbel (1986)
- Premiered:
- Produced by: Viva Films
- Directed by: Leroy Salvador
- Starring: Edu Manzano as Captain Barbel, Herbert Bautista as Tengteng, Lea Salonga as Rosemarie, Sharon Cuneta as Darna, Beth Bautista as Gagamba, Tonton Guterrez as Bampira
- Captain Barbell (2003)
- Premiered: December 25, 2003
- Produced by: Viva Films
- Starring: Ramon "Bong" Revilla Jr. as Captain Barbell, Ogie Alcasid as Enteng, Regine Velasquez as Cielo/Darna, Albert Martinez as Lagablab, Rufa Mae Quinto as Freezy, Jeffrey Quizon as Dagampatay, Bearwin Meily as Lobo
See also
- List of shows previously aired by GMA Network
- GMA NetworkGMA NetworkGMA Network is a major commercial television & radio network in the Philippines. GMA Network is owned by GMA Network, Inc. a publicly listed company...
- Telefantasya
- Captain BarbellCaptain BarbellCaptain Barbell is a fictional Filipino superhero created by writer Mars Ravelo and artist Jim Fernandez. He first appeared in Pinoy Komiks #5 .-Character history:...
External links
- Captain Barbell at iGMA.tv
- Captain Barbell on Picturetrail. Comprehensive Captain Barbell television series gallery