Star Awards 2016: My Verdict

Time does fly as we are about to witness another ceremony which celebrates the achievements of the people who stood in front of our TV in past, and also, not to forget, those people who made it possible for the previously mentioned party to stand in front of our TV. Already in its 22nd installment, Mediacorp will be holding its annual awards ceremony in Theatre @ Mediacorp located at One Stars Avenue, which is Mediacorp's new home, for the very first time.

Mediacorp's new campus @ One-North

This year's awards marks many firsts as well as many lasts. Besides being the first annual awards ceremony held at their new campus, this is also their first time having the awards ceremony in three parts, one being closed while the other two airing live on TV. Unlike years 2010 to 2015, the heroes behind-the-scenes were awarded and have celebrated their year of honour in a separate closed ceremony in 2016. The remaining two parts of the ceremony will be fully utilised to give away 19 different awards. So this time round, we are expecting longer speeches from the winners - I hope they don't just turn off someone's microphone just because the show is going to overrun.

This is also the first year where veteran artistes will compete against each other to win the Best Evergreen Artiste Award. Nominees must be at least 50 years old and have a minimum of 25 years of acting experience in this field. In a few years, you will see Zoe Tay, Aileen Tan and Chen Han Wei in this category (Oops!). Though there were claims saying that this award was introduced just so that the younger actors can compete for the acting awards, it was clarified that nominees in this category will not be removed from the normal acting awards - as Chen Tian Wen is a great example for being nominated in both the Best Evergreen Artiste award and the Best Supporting Actor award.

The first nominees of the Best Evergreen Artiste Award

Having known all the firsts, it's time to reminisce about the lasts. This would be the last year for the ceremony to present the online categories which includes Favourite Male Character, Favourite Female Character and Favourite Onscreen Couple. So who would be the final recipient of the above awards? Let's just wait and see. Oh wait, did I mention that these awards will only be presented in the Post Show Party which will only be aired after the second part of the ceremony? Sad isn't it...now we have to wait even longer...urgh...

Okay enough storytelling, I guess you all know why I am writing this today. Like duh, I do this every single year - it's like part of my circle of life (like seriously). Without beating the bush (which I already had), let me share with you my guesses for this year's winners for the coveted awards...

Let's start of with the acting awards...here goes!

BEST ACTOR

We say: Christopher Lee as Yang Yi-wei (Crescendo)

Truthfully speaking, this category was always easier to predict. Though all nominees come from blockbusters (not to mention, one came from a long-running drama), Christopher's performance in Crescendo is a sure-win in comparison. Though many supported Qi Yuwu from the Dream Makers 2 (as Jason Lam), we really think that Yuwu's performance is good and natural but it was not to our surprise. Christopher managed to bring the story of Xinyao into all of our hearts, making us feel all the ups and downs a local musician would face in sustaining the originality of local music. Of course, he has his cast mates to thank. It is no doubt that Tay Pinghui, Darren Lim, Cynthia Koh, Ann Kok and Jacelyn Tay brought his character to life. All in all, among all the other nominees, we think he stands the highest chance.

Dark Horse: Chen Hanwei as Li Wei-liang (118)

Who else but Chen Hanwei? Like seriously, this guy has the ability to transform every character he portrays into he himself. Like seriously, you don't see Chen Hanwei in Hu Wei-ren (The Journey: Tumultuous Times), you see Hu Wei-ren in Chen Hanwei. Oh what was I talking about?! Anyway, you got my point right? So is this role getting Hanwei his fifth Best Actor Award? I would say... probably...

The other actors did well in their roles as well but needless to say they were not as outstanding as the above. Also, based on experience, the above were many years ahead of them. Like mentioned, Qi Yuwu was natural but there was a lack in surprise factor. Romeo Tan did a great job but this was his first nomination anyway so he has a long way to go. Shaun Chen? Sorry, Shaun; you did better last year.

BEST ACTRESS

We say: Jeanette Aw as Zhao Fei-er (The Dream Makers 2)

Okay, before anyone says that I am biased, I hereby admit that we are fans of Jeanette Aw. But tell me, who in the world wouldn't feel for Zhao Fei-er this time? Okay, not everyone thinks she is excellent but most people do think so. I really lost count the number of times I got worried for Jeanette herself while watching the drama. It was so real I thought she was actually depressed. Three scenes which caught my heart, you ask? 

• The scene where she was sitting in the bus and Jason leans on her shoulder. She was laughing and crying at the same time. 
• The scene where she started hallucinating about nonexistent negative comments and smashes the mirror with her award. Then, she finally broke down in front of her father. 
• The scene where she forcefully chased her sister Dong Zi-huai out of her house though her father tries to speak up for the latter. After her sister and father left, she screamed in desperation and disappointment - as no one in this world believes in her, even her closest kin. 

Well, her crying scenes were a handful but I also couldn't forget how cheeky she was whenever she was trying to tease Zhong Yi-ming (portrayed by Romeo Tan). With Jeanette's awesome transformation through the life of her character, I bet all my fortune for her to win this award this time. The judges' must have stamps on their eyes if she doesn't. Like seriously, give her the award already!

Dark Horse: Rui En as Fang Tong-lin (The Dream Makers 2)

Well, we all know that Tong-lin is Fei Er's biggest competitor in reel life; and not to your surprise, Rui En, no doubt, is Jeanette's greatest competitor as well. Rui En may have a "boring" start with all her usual funniness as the I-don't-care-what-you-think Tong-lin but the scene where she realised she was disfigured is definitely her turning point. She had a scream as well when she first saw her disfigured face and that scream may be her winning point. This was why I think she could be the next one to win - and this would her third Best Actress trophy if she really does.

What the other actresses are lacking of is mostly "character fluctuation". Zoe Tay did extremely well in her character as Zhou Wei-yun but did we mention that she actually did way better in The Dream Makers 1? And to be frank, we were very shocked when we did not see her in the list of nominees for Best Actress 2014. Her role this time was fairly plain, except for the scene where she met with a car accident, and also the time she was blamed by her nephew for indirectly killing his parents. Oh, and not to forget, the tears she shed whenever she was reminded about her deceased fiancee and unborn child were unforgettable. Ya Hui's nomination was pretty much expected as there was much to explore in her character in the long-form drama. She was a la-la noodle seller and later met her boyfriend who turned out to be the son of a typhoon's mistress. And finally, when life was getting well for her, she was diagnosed with brain cancer. With such a huge turn in her character, there is no doubt she is in the list but I for one thinks that she has much to improve - but I would give her a thumbs up for her work as I really think Hong Jin-zhi is one role which defines her career. Finally, newly crowned Best Actress Rebecca Lim was again nominated for a somewhat comedic role. I think she probably got nominated because her character lost the ability to lie. Truth to be said, it was amusing to watch the drama but at the same time I find it pretty normal and nothing was unexpected in her portrayal. So, I think she would not be grabbing her second trophy that soon.

BEST SUPPORTING ACTOR

We say: Chen Tian-wen as Zhang Tian-cheng (118)

In this category, it was really unexpected to see so many young nominees this year, though we did expect a few of them to be in this list. But, like the Chinese said 姜还是老的辣 (The older gingers are always spicier) so this time, our pick is none other than veteran actor Chen Tian Wen. His portrayal as Zhang Tian-cheng has definitely left an impression on us - as we almost lost count the number of times he made all of us so mad that we almost threw our shoes towards our 45-inch TV. However, we have to admit that his "Unbelievable" rising popularity had definitely contributed to our impression on his acting. He was a veteran, his acting has to have a certain level - it's just that we have never seen him as excellent until today. I dare say that Zhang Tian-cheng and Mr. Unbelievable (Eric Kuek) may be his most notable roles to date. Anyhow, good luck, Tian-wen! We are placing our bet on you!

Dark Horse: Andie Chen as Hong Dang-yong (The Journey: Our Homeland)

When Joanne Peh missed out her Best Actress nom for The Journey: A Voyage, I bet she was quite disappointed. But she managed to clinch the Best Supporting Actress award with her two-episode appearance in The Journey's sequel - The Journey: Tumultuous Times. Andie suffered the same fate as Joanne last year, where his portrayal as a member of the opposition party during the political riot during the sixties did not manage to capture the hearts of the judges (though it captured ours). So, his portrayal in the final installment of The Journey may be the turning point of Hong Dang-yong and hence, he may be the next in line for this coveted award.

As for the rest of the actors, we would like to commend Ian Fang and Zhang Zhen-huan. The former has managed to portray Mr Goody-Two-Shoes and a common salaryman in the workplace relatively well, which is quite a surprise for someone who is usually good portraying a rebellious teenager. Zhang Zhen-huan, on the other hand is always good in bringing the dark side out of the character he usually plays. Out of the 8 dukes, he is indeed most suited for heavily emotional roles, as he almost nailed it every time. But, that being said, nailing it and winning an award are two different aspects - you may nail your role but you may not win, because some others might be nailing theirs better than yours. But one day, it would be your turn, Zhen-huan, and I hope that day would not be too far from now. Finally, Edwin....err....sorry to say, but he is the least expected to be seen in this list. we even thought that his role is almost negligible. However, we can see the hard work he placed into this role and this role is definitely heavier than his previous roles. So no matter what, you deserve a pat on your back, Edwin.

BEST SUPPORTING ACTRESS

We say: Julie Tan as Dong Zi-huai (The Dream Makers 2)

Finally, we have come to the award category which is most difficult to judge. Why? Because all of them are just too young - in terms of both age and acting capabilities. Most of them did not managed to show maturity in acting. Therefore, our pick for this category is Julie Tan, as the evil, scheming and mischievous Dong Zi-huai. Her acting was persuasive though lack of depth in my opinion. However, she still deserve the win among the rest as her role has the largest fluctuation in terms of story line and emotions. Plus, we would never forget how she drove her sister crazy with her scheming plans - it was just so heart-wrenching to see Fei-er being tortured and therefore her appearance always made me furious for no reason. And that's why Julie deserves to walk away with this award.

Dark Horse: Sheila Sim as Hong Shan-shan (118)

She may be a first time nominee but we admit it was definitely not easy to portray an easygoing (and dirty) lady who places her love life above all. And yes, her love line with Ah Niang (aka Lee Wei-liang, portrayed by Chen Han-wei) is very amusing and funny, and sometimes sweet. Given that the bad impression we had for her previous roles (especially her first role in I'm In Charge), we were really impressed with her performance in 118. Therefore, we think she would win this award if Julie doesn't. 

Among the five, Paige Chua is most experienced and there is no doubt that her acting abilities are a level higher than the rest. However, her nominated role is pretty much not helping her to the win - as it is plain and normal, unlike the above two. As for Carrie Wong, yes, her role as Ke-ai is challenging at some point, and she did well no doubt, but we have to say that something is still lacking in her portrayal, we just can't name it. Finally, Bonnie Loo, the weakest link in my opinion as we did not even think she would get nominated for this role at the first place, though we admit that her portrayal was good. The problem is not about her portrayal but about her character, it is perhaps a little dull compared to the rest.

BEST EVERGREEN ARTISTE

We say: Chen Tian-wen as Zhang Tian-cheng (118)

Is this the second time we call him a winner? Yes, it is - because, like mentioned, he did justice to the cunning Zhang Tian-cheng who turned over a new leaf at the end. As for the reasons why we chose him? Refer to the above under Best Supporting Actor.

Dark Horse: Hong Hui-fang as Lin He Xiang-niang (Good Luck)

Hui-fang's portrayal as the centenarian Xiang-niang was definitely up-to-bar. Having a 56-year-old to portray someone twice her age is definitely not easy but she just nailed it like nobody's business. We actually expected her to get nominated for Best Actress, but sadly she didn't. So, she shares an equal chance on winning this award. Well, she is a veteran; no role could beat her down.

As for the rest of the nominees, Chen Shu-cheng, Xiang Yun & Lin Mei-jiao - we have no words for their performances. Veterans have that aura in every role they portrayal. It's like, they are handling each role in such a light and easy manner. Truthfully speaking, the only reason why these three may not win this is their characters. Their roles are more "normal" than the above two, if you get what I mean.

YOUNG TALENT AWARD

We say: Damien Teo as Eden (The Dream Makers 2)

Is he going to win this award two years in a row? Yes, yes he is. He is a child but yet he is able to bring a role with so many different emotions so well. Imagine an adorable little boy who looks happy and cheeky on the outside, angry (of his mother) on the inside, but deep down, he has the desire to be loved and cared by his mother. If this role were to given to an adult - yea, it's doable. But for a child, it's a wow if he or she nails it and Damien just did it, again!

Dark Horse: Sun Yi-en as Viveka (118)

We can never forget how she irritates Uncle Niang (portrayed by Chen Han-wei) with her blunt yet harmless and naive comments. And not to mention, she always tried so hard to tell the whole world that her father loves Shan Shan (portrayed by Sheila Sim). Her portrayal is simple and sweet, and at the same time, unforgettable - and this, deserves a nod. Oh wait, I just realised that the trio got nominated in their respective categories and were all our dark horses. Will the newly-formed family in 118 emerge as victors of the ceremony? We'll see. 

BEST DRAMA

We say: The Dream Makers 2

Do we need to say more? From the excellent portrayals by the stellar cast, to the story line and finally, to the number of nominations this drama got in the year's awards ceremony - it is no doubt that The Dream Makers 2 would follow the footsteps of its predecessor to accept the highest honour in the awards for a drama series.

Dark Horse: Crescendo

The winning point of this drama is definitely the setting and its theme. Having its story to revolve around the local music industry, the drama has not only successfully brought back memories for the older generations, it has also enlightened the younger generation about the journey and evolution of Xinyao. With various A-listers playing the lead roles, and the variety of plot techniques used, I dare say that Crescendo was almost as addictive as mega blockbuster The Little Nyonya.

BEST THEME SONG

We say: Finally by Kit Chan (The Dream Makers 2)

Whenever you listen to this song, you could somehow recall all the scenes and incidents related to each and every cast in the show. The song attempts to tell a story about people who neglected what's right beside them for something they could never get or own. Happiness is right by your side - that's the moral of the song, as well as the moral of the story. See how both relates? That's why its the Best Theme Song for the year.

Dark Horse: Longing To Tell You by A-Do (Crescendo)

This original piece written by Liang Wern-fook was only composed recently for this drama but there were moment where I mistook this song for an oldie. See the magic? It's a modern song which sounds like an oldie - this is the element which makes this song so special and addictive. I couldn't stop humming and singing this song whenever I recall about Xinyao. This song also had its lyrics written to fit the story line of Crescendo, and we find it quite relatable. Hence why this song should win Best Theme Song if the former didn't.


Phew, I am finally done. I just can't wait much longer for the awards show! I bet you are as excited as I am! Tune in to the following channels to watch the awards show live!

Singapore - Channel 8 / Channel U

Star Awards 2016 - Red Carpet 
Date: 17 April 2016 (Sunday)
Time: 5:30 PM - 6:30 PM

Star Awards 2016 - Part 1
Date: 17 April 2016 (Sunday)
Time: 7:00 PM - 10:00 PM

Star Awards 2016 - Part 2
Date: 24 April 2016 (Sunday)
Time: 7:00 PM - 10:00 PM

Star Awards - Post Show Party (Channel U only)
Date: 24 April 2016 (Sunday)
Time: 10:30 PM~

Malaysia - Astro Xi Yue HD (CH300)

Star Awards 2016 - Part 1
Date: 17 April 2016 (Sunday)
Time: 7:00 PM - 10:00 PM

Star Awards 2016 - Part 2
Date: 24 April 2016 (Sunday)
Time: 7:00 PM - 10:00 PM

Verdicts: My sister and I (The "We")
Written by Yours truly (The "I")