IN PHOTOS: Remembering multi-awarded actress Anita Linda
At the age of 95, Anita Linda was the country's oldest active actor with a filmography spanning over 100 films, 16 teleseryes, and 19 awards. To boot, she is one of Philippines's most sought-after actresses because of her talent, perseverance, and dedication to perfect her craft. Let's take a look at her body of work that spans over seven decades since she entered the entertainment industry in the 1940s.
Alice Buenaflor Lake
Anita Linda was born Alice Buenaflor Lake, to parents Gorgonia Buenaflor and James Lake.
Lamberto Avellana
She was discovered by renowned director Lamberto Avellana at a stage show at the Avenue Theater in Manila.
Anita Linda
She was given the screen name “Anita Linda” a few years later when Lamberto Avellana cast her in 'Tia Juana,' her first film in LVN Pictures.
Stage actress
Because of the Second World War, Anita spent her years performing on vaudeville at Avenue Theater.
Sisa
In 1951, Anita portrayed the title character in Gerardo de Leon's 'Sisa,' which was based on Jose Rizal's character in 'Noli Me Tangere.' The titular role earned her the Best Actress Maria Clara award.
Critical films
In the '70s, Anita gained wide acclaim after portraying maternal roles in different films of Lino Brocka like 'Tinimbang Ka Ngunit Kulang,' 'Isa Dalawa Tatlo,' and 'Jaguar.'
Cannes Film Festival nomination
For her role in 'Jaguar,' starring opposite Phillip Salvador, she was nominated for the Palme d'Or, the highest award to be received, at the 1980 Cannes Film Festival.
FAMAS Award
She then received her second FAMAS Award for Best Supporting Actress for her portrayal of an aging film actress in Mario O'Hara's 'Ang Babae sa Bubungang Lata' in 1998. Her win gave her the record as the oldest actress to ever win a FAMAS at the age of 74.
Active
Despite her old age, Linda remained active in the showbiz industry by appearing in other several films and television series.
GMA Network
In 2005, Anita portrayed the guest role Nacyfe in Mars Ravelo's 'Darna' starring Angel Locsin. She would also play small roles like Nanay Uray in 'Indio' in 2013.
Adela
In 2008, Linda was again praised for her role in the independent film 'Adela' directed by Adolfo Alix Jr. In the film, she portrayed a woman celebrating her 80th birthday alone because her children failed to visit her.
Recognition
For 'Adela' she garnered different awards and recognitions like Best Actress in the 10th Cinemanila International Film Festival, Best Actress by the Young Critics Circle, and Best Actress at the Gawad Tanglaw Awards.
Film Development Council
In June 2019, Anita was honored by the Film Development Council of the Philippines for her continuous contribution to the Philippine cinema.
Legacy
In a span of more than seven decades, Anita Linda has starred in more than 100 Filipino films, 16 teleseryes, and 19 awards making her one of the most acclaimed and sought out actresses in the Philippine entertainment industry.
