Last September 23, the world got its first taste of “Fruitcake,” a Filipino movie set to redefine the landscape of barkada films. This promising venture, produced by Cornerstone Studios and Create Cinema Inc., has already garnered significant attention and anticipation from audiences and industry insiders alike.
“Fruitcake,” a brainchild of the visionary minds of executive producers Erickson Raymundo and Jeff Vadillo, producers Pamela L. Reyes and E del Mundo, and the talented writing duo of Joel Ferrer and Miko Livelo, is directed by Joel Ferrer, renowned for his work on “Elise,” currently available for streaming on Netflix.
At its core, “Fruitcake” is a multi-character comedy-drama film that weaves together the narratives of Filipinos from diverse backgrounds – all set against the backdrop of modern-day Metro Manila.
The lives of several people intersect during an ordinary LRT train ride. Joshua Garcia is Cardo, a hopeful romantic dancer who moves to the city in pursuit of corporate work and to rekindle a past relationship; Heaven Peralejo is Diane, a college student who becomes involved in an activism mission to expose the secrets of Senator Sam (Dominic Ochoa), with whom she shares a complicated relationship; Victor Anastacio is Ospret, an online English teacher and stand-up comedian facing inner struggles while caring for his family; KD Estrada is Jolo, a naive student trying to impress his crush by buying drugs for an upcoming house party; Alex Diaz is Chad, a student activist leader grappling with his sexual orientation; and Ria Atayde is Jenny, an MRT train driver dealing with an unexpected pregnancy and her priest brother’s opposition to abortion.
Empoy Marquez, Jane Oineza, Enchong Dee, Markus Paterson, Queenay, MacoyDubs, Noel Comia Jr., Kat Galang, Donna Cariaga, Aldo Cuervo and Pocholo Barretto, are also part of the eclectic mix.
“Fruitcake” takes inspiration from the iconic 1996 song by the Eraserheads. For the film, the theme song will be performed by Pop Rock Royalty Yeng Constantino and Asia’s Soul Supreme KZ Tandingan.
“Fruitcake” is poised to be a game-changer in Filipino cinema, offering a unique blend of humor, drama, and musical elements. It has already made waves internationally as it was presented at Italy’s Far East Film Festival’s FOCUS ASIA – Far East in Progress, chosen from among 100 international submissions.
The film is part of Star Magic’s 30th-anniversary celebration, in partnership with Cornerstone Entertainment.
