'It's a new Darna': Jane De Leon shares what fans can expect from series

Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, August 12) — Darna lead star Jane de Leon on Friday shared what viewers and fans of the superhero can expect on the new show as it premieres on Monday, Aug. 15.

"Lagi naming sinasabi na binibigay po namin 'yung best namin sa lahat ng tao," De Leon told CNN Philippines' The Final Word. "Ayaw lang po namin mag-expect sila ng too much but I know, it's a new Darna."

[Translation: We always say we're giving our best. We just don't want them to expect too much but I know, it's a new Darna.]

"More on ang Darna ngayon, nagfo-focus sa family, friendship, and relationship. Ang pinaka-favorite motto ko don, 'Ang pinakamalaking kasalanan sa lahat ay kapag may kakayahan kang tumulong pero wala ka namang ginawa' because (for) us, humans, parang normal 'yung instinct natin to help other people kahit sa small, little things," she added.

[Translation: The Darna now focuses more on family, friendship, and relationship. My most favorite motto there is, "The greatest of all sins is when you have the capacity to help but you did nothing" because for us, humans, it's a normal instinct to help others in our own little way.]

Prior to the filming of the show, which started in November last year, De Leon said she had to prepare herself mentally, emotionally, and physically for the role, especially on stunt training.

She also bared that the series' stunt director is from Australia and is part of Marvel Studios.

The actress will be paired with actor Joshua Garcia who plays the role of a policeman and the best friend of Narda, Darna's alter ego.

"'Yung relationship ko with Brian Robles (Garcia's role), para kaming aso't pusa. I think we like each other but naghohold back lang kami," she said.

[Translation: My relationship with Brian Robles is like that of a dog and cat. I think we like each other but we're holding back.]

Meanwhile, Darna's main villain Valentina will be played by actress Janella Salvador.

"With Janella, grabe 'yung chemistry naming dalawa. Ang sinasabi nga ng direktor namin, baka kami pa 'yung magkatuluyan sa huli," she said.

[Translation: Janella and I have a great chemistry. Our director even joked that we might end up together.]

The actress also shared that there are still "many surprises" in store--including new villains, powers, and fight scenes.