Untold story of Medyo Maldito in Bisaya rom-com

CEBU, Philippines - Probably unbeknownst to the younger generation, Cebuano cinema had its own golden age. Having produced some of the most iconic talents such as Gloria Sevilla and Caridad Sanchez, the filmmaking scene in Cebu has been kept in a long slumber since, only stretching its limbs very recently.

Today after decades, Heritage Productions aims to add to the spark of what can only be called a renaissance in Cebuano cinema through their brand new romantic comedy “#MTK” directed by RJ Aquino and Janice Perez, starring Rowell Ucat better known as Medyo Maldito, with singer Akiko Solon as his love interest.

“I would say it’s a calling to pursue Bisaya films. It has always been my dream to see Bisaya films in cinemas, and that’s what we’re doing now,” Sunshine Lim of Heritage Productions and one half of the executive producers of the full feature Bisaya film, says during the project’s press launch at Parkmall’s Central Park.

 For now, the film is in the early stages of post-production, and the meaning behind those three consonants is yet to be revealed.

 The team decided to keep the details under wraps in the hopes of generating interest from prospective viewers, and aims to debut the film by February 2018 at the latest, or at least at a time where they no longer have to compete with the big players in Philippine and international cinema.

 “Ultimately, the meaning will be revealed in succeeding events and in the movie. We want to keep the mystery for now, even internally we refer to the film as ‘MTK’. It’s new to us and despite the struggles and time constraints, and the fact that we had just begun editing it, we are excited for everyone to watch the movie,” co-director Janice Perez says.

 Written by poet, and singer-songwriter Therese Marie Villarante alongside music producer, Vispop musical director, and Kadasig co-founder Jude Gitamondoc, “#MTK” is a romantic comedy surrounding the complex and fun, albeit wild ride that is young love. It also tackles family values and life lessons.

 “We wrote the script wanting to tell a really good Bisaya story—a good love story which will leave lessons about relationships. We wanted to showcase what’s here in Cebu, and the talent that we have here,” Villarante shares, adding that it has been both an honor and a pleasure to witness how other people believed in and brought the story that they wrote to life.

 Notably, “#MTK” is actually the untold story of Medyo Maldito and shows us a glimpse of Rowell as so much more than an online personality who posts gags, skits and hugot lines on social media.

 “At first, nahadlok gyud ko, naa gyuy hesitation. So many people are going to see it, and people may have a lot to say about it but the support has been incredible and I know this is a movie with a lot of values in it,” reveals Rowell about his inhibitions having no acting background whatsoever and how bashers might be quick with their opinions.

 However, he has full trust in the writers, cast, and crew and is confident that they did their best to tell the story.

Lim, who has produced a number of Bisaya films together with her husband Charles including last year’s award-winning Cinema One entry “Lily” starring Shaina Magdayao, expressed how impressed she is of Rowell’s bravery to give away a part of himself through the project.

 She is also grateful with how the business sector in Cebu came through in supporting their advocacy of enriching Bisaya artistry. Mrs. Lim further revealed that they are open to showcasing “#MTK” in various film festivals, but stresses that it should be Cebuanos who should see it first.

The story also hit close to home for “Star Power” finalist Akiko (she finished fifth to grand winner Angeline Quinto) who portrays the love of Medyo Maldito’s life, saying that despite moving on from a recent heartbreak, she had to dig deep to embody the character well.

“This is my first Bisaya film. I had to understand my character and express the right emotions especially being vulnerable. Even though wala na koy feelings of pain and heartbreak, I had to remember all of that, and find those emotions again,” she says.

 The project doesn’t only highlight the acting talent of Cebuanos, but also showcases their musical prowess. In partnership with the Kadasig movement which aims to uplift Bisaya music and is co-founded by the film’s scriptwriter, Jude Gitamondoc, Heritage Productions aims to tap into the pool of Bisaya musicians to contribute to the film score. One track in fact made its debut during the press event: “Ayaw La’g Huwat” performed by Von Saw.

Indeed, there is a promise and beauty in the idea of merging the brilliance within Binisaya film and music. Another thing of note for “#MTK” is that it is one of two local films that has complete ownership of their content, the first one being “SUPERPSYCHOCEBU” directed by Christian Linaban.

“#MTK,” with its estimated P3 to 5 million budget, is also set to be reviewed by the Movie and Television Regulatory and Classification Board, Cinema Evaluation Board, and other governing bodies before hitting cinemas.

 “Although there are many successful films by Cebuanos, they are however partly owned by grant-giving bodies such as Cinema One,” film production consultant Diem Judilla begins, saying that “#MTK” is united with this turn of events in Bisaya films.

 “It is very inspiring how now, the Cebuano filmmaking scene is on its serious steps into becoming an industry. It proves that Cebuano cinema is here to stay,” Judilla adds.

 The film also stars Ligaya Rabago who plays Rowell’s mother, and Dante Luzon as her husband. It also presents a deaf-mute character, portrayed by student nurse Rio Delizo who is Rowell’s brother in the film.

 Despite showcasing budding Cebuano talent, discussing proverbial and light themes, and yes an airport scene (because is it really a rom-com without one?), “#MTK” assures viewers that there is a lot to be had from the film. And Heritage Productions is doing their utmost to make sure that “#MTK” is accessible to viewers via cinemas.

 When asked about the newfound flame in the rising Bisaya filmmaking scene, renowned journalist, news anchor, and painter, Dante Luzon shares that he feels young and fulfilled working alongside the new generation of Cebuano filmmakers.

 “Siguro nakamata na ang mga producers, artists and audience. Before when you are an artist you go to Manila and be a national icon, and then you come back home as a hero,” quips Luzon. “Karon hinay-hinay na ta nga nibangon and we are going in the right direction.”

 Rabago also expressed how happy she is with the recent strides, and hopes that this isn’t only a seasonal, one-time thing.

 “This is a huge development now that we are in the limelight, we are not at the peak yet but there are still so many Bisaya stories, actors, directors, writers and artists. Mabuhi ang pelikulang Binisaya, ug unta magpabilin kini sa atong kasingkasing ug paghunahuna.”