Erik Matti reveals Nadine Lustre to be his choice for ‘Darna’ replacement

FILE: “Surprised to hear about Liza Soberano letting go of #Darna You would have been great for the part. I wish you all the best.” (Photo: @erikmatti/Instagram)

After Kapamilya actress Liza Soberano’s shocking announcement last April 4 on backing out on portraying the role of the new adaptation of Pinay superheroine Darna, the former director of the film, Erik Matti, shares his opinion on his top pick for her replacement.

In an interview with the Philippine Star, Direk Erik, who resigned as the director of the film last October 2018 due to “creative differences”, shares, “I really feel that Liza would have been a fresh and exciting Darna. After Liza, I only see Nadine Lustre so far as someone who can be Darna. Very sultry. She has a lot of female sensuality and at the same time still looks tough and very Filipina.”

He adds, “The key to casting Darna has always been someone who can look plain and ordinary in her Narda alter ego but can be tough, spunk and can be very sexy as well when she transforms to Darna. Nadine can look all of that,” concluding, “She’s young and embodies a lot of potential to create a modern take for this classic superhero character.”

Immediately after Liza’s departure from the iconic role, netizens were quick to suggest Nadine to fulfill the duties instead. As a response, she told supporters, “I super appreciate that. For them to see me as a person who is strong and very empowered – Darna is a strong woman and they see that in me, it’s good.” The Ulan star continues, “I want to thank everyone for the support of course but Darna kasi, I am sure, it will be given to someone who is deserving for the role and someone who can really give justice.”

As for her opinions on Liza’s finger injury, causing the resignation, Nadine reveals to ABS-CBN News, “We talked about it before, actually during the Christmas special. She showed to me what happened to her finger. It’s her decision. Of course, everyone respects it.”