Dennis Trillo learned Filipino sign language for 'Green Bones'

Dennis Trillo learned Filipino Sign Language to portray his character in "Green Bones."

The Kapuso Drama King takes on the role of Domingo Zamora, a notorious criminal who was arrested for the murder of his sister.

As seen in the film's official trailer, Domingo was taken to the San Fabian Prison and Penal Farm, the largest prison island outside of Metro Manila.

Domingo constantly communicates with his fellow persons deprived of liberty (PDLs). Ruru Madrid, who plays a newly assigned prison guard, observes that Domingo might be planning an escape.

Domingo does not have that much dialogue when communicating with the PDLs, but instead uses his eyes and signs.

"Dito kasi sa character ko na 'to, mayroong phase dun sa kwento niya na kinailangan niyang mag sign language. Dahil dun sa trauma na naramdaman niya, parang ayaw niya muna magsalita," Dennis said at the film's grand media conference in Quezon City on Thursday.

The actor added that he has less lines, but made sure to communicate a message with his eyes. "Kahit tinginan palang, naiintindihan mo na kung ano 'yung gustong ipahiwatig ng kuwento," he said.

Not only that, Dennis made an extra effort to change his look and lose weight to portray the drug-addicted criminal.

"Kailangan lang mag-effort kasi ang tagal ko na dito sa industriya, kailangan may maipakita naman akong bago," the actor said.

"Green Bones," directed by Zig Dulay, premieres at the Metro Manila Film Festival 2024 on December 25.

It is based on an original story by JC Rubio, senior documentary manager of GMA Public Affairs, with its screenplay written by National Artist Ricky Lee and MMFF 2023 Best Screenplay winner Angeli Atienza.

Dennis and Ruru are joined by a powerhouse cast of Iza Calzado, Alessandra De Rossi, Wendell Ramos, Michael De Mesa, Royce Cabrera, Ronnie Lazaro, Raul Morit, Sofia Pablo, Pauline Mendoza, and Sienna Stevens.

—MGP, GMA Integrated News