Get ready to be electrified! From the visionary directors of Avengers: Endgame comes The Electric State, a breathtaking adventure set in an alternate 1990s where the past and future collide. Starring Millie Bobby Brown, Chris Pratt, and Stanley Tucci, this highly anticipated film launches globally on Netflix this March 14.
A Journey Through a Post-Robot-War World
In The Electric State, humanity grapples with the fallout of a failed robot uprising. The story follows Michelle (Millie Bobby Brown), a resilient orphan in a retro-futuristic society where sentient robots — once charming companions — have been exiled to the desolate Exclusion Zone. When Michelle encounters Cosmo, a quirky robot connected to her long-lost genius brother Christopher, her quiet life takes a dramatic turn.
Joined by Keats (Chris Pratt), a resourceful smuggler, and his wisecracking robot sidekick Herman (voiced by Anthony Mackie), Michelle embarks on a daring journey across the American Southwest. Together, they navigate breathtaking landscapes, meet eccentric robotic allies, and unravel a sinister conspiracy surrounding Christopher’s mysterious disappearance.
Star-Studded Cast and Creative Powerhouses
With an all-star lineup, The Electric State promises unforgettable performances:
The film also features the voice talents of Woody Harrelson, Brian Cox, Jenny Slate, and Alan Tudyk, bringing a host of colorful robotic characters to life.
A Visionary Team
Directed by Anthony and Joe Russo, the masterminds behind Avengers: Endgame, the film is adapted from Simon Stålenhag’s acclaimed graphic novel. With a screenplay by Christopher Markus & Stephen McFeely, expect a richly layered story that blends heart-pounding action with poignant storytelling.
Mark Your Calendar: March 14
Prepare for a visual and emotional feast as The Electric State transports you to a world like no other. Streaming exclusively on Netflix, this is a cinematic experience you won’t want to miss.
Netflix has been continuously bringing us great content to stream on our favorite devices. Whether it’s a compelling drama with interesting characters, a thrilling title that keeps us at the edge of our seats, comedies that give us our much-needed dose of laughter, or just anything that keeps us entertained on the couch or on the go, we surely can count on the streaming service’s rich library of shows and movies.
If you’re the kind who needs to plot your binge-watching schedules for the month, worry not, because we’re giving you a rundown of the most awaited shows and films on Netflix Philippines this month. So, buckle up and get ready to embark on a cinematic journey with these must-watch titles arriving on Netflix this November 2024!
Your Top Pick This Month
Arcane: Season 2 (Series) Launch Date Batch 1: November 9 Batch 2: November 16 Batch 3: November 23
Alliances are forged, allegiances are smashed and fresh dangers emerge as the battle between Piltover and Zaun inspires both glory and heartbreak.
Based on a true story, this drama follows three pioneering British scientists in the ’60s and ’70s and their struggle to develop IVF — against all odds.
The Empress: Season 2 (Series) Launch date: November 22
As dark clouds gather over the Austrian Empire, the need to produce an heir for the throne puts Franz and Elisabeth’s marriage to the test.
A brewing battle over the fate of an heirloom piano threatens to tear a family apart in this drama based on August Wilson’s Pulitzer Prize-winning play.
A big-city dancer stages an all-male, Christmas-themed revue to save her parents’ small-town bar — and meets a guy who might have all the right moves. Cannavale and Bokeem Woodbine.
Best friends Brooklyn and Malibu race across Europe to solve a mystery when a show horse is stolen while they’re on vacation in the English countryside.
A movie star, a striving ingenue and an aspiring producer chase fame, fortune and fleeting glory amid the glamorous debauchery of late-1920s Hollywood.
Love Village: Season 2 (Series) Launch date: November 5
With over-the-hill vision, sleep-disrupting snoring and plenty of drama, mature singles move into a traditional house in Okinawa searching for true love.
Spain, 1981: When armed men hold up a bank and take hundreds hostage, a reporter races against the authorities to uncover the true motive for the heist.
After a tragic accident takes the love of her life, Saeko feels oddly drawn to a stranger — who, unbeknownst to both, received her late fiancé’s heart.
Cobra Kai: Season 6: Part 2 (Series) Launch date: November 15
With the global tournament approaching, Daniel and Johnny work to rebuild their team. But old enemies and new threats stand in the way of victory.
Tokyo Override (Series) Launch date: November 21
When a lonely hacker gets entangled with a group of underground couriers, they uncover the dark truth lurking beneath Tokyo’s seemingly perfect facade.
After a media pundit stumbles upon a dead body deep in the Poconos woods, he finds himself framed for the murder of a notorious white supremacist.
With this fantastic lineup of new movies and series, Netflix is sure to keep you entertained throughout November 2024. So, grab your popcorn, snuggle up on the couch, and get ready to indulge in these binge-worthy titles. Happy streaming!
Ever wanted to save that perfect Netflix scene to watch over and over? Now you can. Netflix introduces Moments, a game-changing feature that lets you save, relive, and share your favorite scenes right from your mobile device. Available today on iOS and rolling out soon on Android, Moments will ensure your most-loved Netflix scenes are only a tap away.
Save Memorable Scenes in Seconds
Moments lets you effortlessly bookmark key scenes, like the heartfelt kiss between Colin and Penelope in Bridgerton or the intense final showdown in BEEF. When you find yourself immersed in a scene that’s simply too good to leave behind, Moments has you covered. Simply tap the Moments button on your screen to save that unforgettable moment straight to your My Netflix tab.
Once saved, you can revisit these scenes anytime. Even better, when you rewatch an episode, it will begin right where you left off, bringing your saved Moments back to life.
Share the Joy: Spread the Netflix Love on Social Media
Moments isn’t just for personal enjoyment; it’s a social experience too. Share your saved scenes directly to Instagram, Facebook, and other platforms with ease. You can share a scene right as you save it or later from the My Netflix tab, creating a seamless way to let your friends in on all your favorite Netflix moments.
Perfect Timing with Season 2 of Squid Game and the “It’s So Good” Campaign
With Squid Game Season 2 dropping on December 26, Netflix fans can prepare to capture each suspenseful game sequence from Season 1. Netflix’s Moments launch aligns with its new global campaign, “It’s So Good,” spotlighting unforgettable scenes that have captivated audiences, with cameos from stars like Cardi B, Simone Biles, and Giancarlo Esposito.
What’s Next for Moments?
The Moments feature promises even more exciting updates in the near future. Netflix is committed to enhancing how fans interact with their favorite content, and Moments is just the start. Keep an eye out for new features and expanded capabilities!
With Moments, your Netflix experience is about to become even more personalized. So go ahead, hit that Moments button, and make your favorite scenes last forever.
From the opening scene of ‘Outside,’ writer/director Carlo Ledesma already lays the groundwork for his approach to the zombie genre. A beat-up van carrying four dirty, exhausted passengers pass through an empty highway flanked by sugarcane fields tells us everything that we need to know: the zombie apocalypse has already started, and this family is on the run. The film begins and they’ve already witnessed and experienced things. What exactly? While some of these events are spoken about much later on in the film, Ledesma expertly weaves in what the audience already knows about zombies to let our imagination do the work. It’s only from the cast’s performances that informs us how intense it all is. Sid Lucero, Beauty Gonzales, Marco Masa, and Aiden Tyler Patdu play the family and as we see them arrive at an old hacienda, we know what they’ve been through must have been hell.
And from here, this is what makes ‘Outside’ so refreshing. Ledesma knows the audience have expectations and continues to subvert it at every turn. You are expecting a zombie hoard but instead, he hits you with a complex domestic drama turned thriller all set in the backdrop of a zombie movie. Because while there are zombies, they are not the scariest thing in the film. For the pillars of this family – Sid Lucero’s Francis and Beauty Gonzales’ Iris – are not in good terms and their children, Masa’s Joshua and Patdu’s Lucas, are bearing the brunt of it.
Set in a broken-down hacienda somewhere in Negros Occidental, Ledesma uses the beautiful architecture of the house amidst the grand expanse of the sugarcane fields surrounding the mansion as a battleground for a broken family. Francis and Iris’ marriage is falling apart, and it unfortunately happens during a zombie outbreak. Tensions are high and moving back into Francis’ ancestral home reignites horrible memories of his traumatic youth with an abusive father.
The film unfolds slowly, establishing the deep hurts that have been embedded in each character, for even the children are not spared from the backlash of all of this emotional turmoil. Francis is trying to keep his family together while Iris is just looking for a place to feel safe and as the constant presence of zombies continue to complicate the already-tense situation, every emotion is amplified and pushes the characters to their limit.
‘Outside’ goes beyond the zombie genre and manages to intersect and weave in various plots – the domestic drama, psychological horror, and zombie movie – into one narrative. For those expecting a high-paced thriller, you might be disappointed (though there is one exceptional action-packed sequence at the start of the second act that is exquisitely choreographed and executed) as the film is more interested in developing and building up its characters.
Sid Lucero and Beauty Gonzales are wonderful at holding this whole film together. The film centers around the two of them and their battle of wills. Lucero handles Francis’ breakdown with all the layers that it requires so that it never feels like a caricature or some easy psychotic episode. He works on every individual dimension of his character’s burden: protecting his family, dealing with his trauma, reconciling with his wife, losing control, redefining the home he never wanted to return to. Gonzales, on the other hand, is a woman struggling against her lack of options. How does she get away from her husband with her kids when he has the key to the van, a gun, and a strong desire to keep everyone together. I was surprised by how this film was able to communicate how trapped some women must feel inside a broken marriage. While the zombies have taken multiple metaphors over the course of half a century or more since their appearance in the medium of cinema, this was the first time I saw the zombies as a metaphor for all the external forces that keep women in a failing marriage.
While I feel that the film could use a simpler plot – there are scenes that are there where I feel they only serve to offer new choices for Francis and Iris – what I love about ‘Outside’ is that it never goes out of its way to scare you. It is so confident that the dramatic situation is already tension-filled and frightening that it doesn’t go overboard in the filmmaking to scare you. No inorganic jump scares or overbearing music or crazy camera angles. It’s just clean, beautiful filmmaking that’s focused on character development that’s pushing the story forward. The fact that the film is well-acted, and the elements are fit for horror is just icing on the cake.
My Rating:
Outside is now streaming on Netflix! Click here to watch it now.
As we dive into the cozy season of October 2024, Netflix is set to deliver a thrilling lineup of fresh content. Whether you’re craving spine-tingling horror to get into the Halloween spirit, heartwarming dramas to cozy up with, or exciting new releases in every genre, this month’s offerings promise something for every viewer. From returning fan-favorites to must-watch debuts, here’s a rundown of what’s new on Netflix this October.
YOUR TOP PICK THIS MONTH
Outside (Film) Launch date: October 17 | Stream it here
A family retreats to an isolated farm during a zombie outbreak, but years of painful secrets take a toll as they navigate their desolate world.
An aspiring actress crosses paths with a prolific serial killer in ’70s LA when they’re cast on an episode of “The Dating Game. ” Based on a true story.
At an idyllic writers retreat in Morocco, a newly single novelist finds an unexpected connection with a younger man who’s reevaluating his life choices. Laura Dern and Liam Hemsworth star in this seductive romantic drama from writer-director Susannah Grant (“Erin Brockovich”).
After his mother’s death, young Mahito moves to her hometown, where a mysterious heron leads him into a fantastic realm shared by the living and the dead.
The Swedish agents at the luxury real estate firm Homerun Brokers compete for the best listings in Spain’s high-end holiday destination Marbella.
The Amazing Digital Circus: Season 1 (Eps 1-3) (Series) Launch date: October 5 | Stream it here
A woman is caught in a bizarre virtual reality where she and other trapped humans become bound to the whims of an unhinged AI ringmaster.
The Menendez Brothers (Documentary) Launch date: October 7 | Stream it here
In 1996, Lyle and Erik Menendez were convicted for the murders of their parents in what became one of the most famous criminal cases of the late 20th century. For the first time in 30 years, and in their own words, both brothers revisit the trial that shocked the nation.
This captivating sports series follows Jimmy Butler, Anthony Edwards, LeBron James, Domantas Sabonis and Jayson Tatum throughout the 2023-24 NBA season.
Skilled in the art of killing, a young assassin defies her mentor to save a boy from a ruthless crime syndicate — and she’ll destroy anyone in her path.
In a dystopian future, teens Katniss and Peeta are drafted for a televised event pitting young competitors against one another in a fight to the death.
As October unfolds, Netflix continues to deliver a mix of new releases and returning favorites that are sure to keep viewers hooked. With an array of genres and stories to explore, there’s no shortage of entertainment to enjoy. Whether you’re watching solo or planning a movie night with friends, Netflix has you covered for all your streaming needs this month. Get ready to discover your next binge-worthy favorite!
Thousands of fans gathered in Atlanta for the first-ever live Geeked Week 2024 event, a special two-hour extravaganza that captivated audiences worldwide via YouTube, Twitch, and X. In its fourth year, Geeked Week returned bigger than ever, delivering exclusive news, first-look trailers, and exciting announcements across fan-favorite series like Avatar: The Last Airbender, Black Mirror, Wednesday, and Squid Game.
This year’s event wasn’t just for TV fans. Viewers were also treated to exciting game releases, including Squid Game: Unleashed and Monument Valley 3. If that wasn’t enough, Geeked Week also unveiled sneak peeks of upcoming movies like Don’t Move, It’s What’s Inside, and The Platform 2.
Star-Studded Hosting and Announcements
Hosting the epic event was none other than Joe Manganiello, who stole the show by announcing his casting as the villainous Mr. 0 in One Piece Season 2, where he’ll star alongside Lera Abova as Miss All-Sunday. Cobra Kai stars Jacob Bertrand and Xolo Maridueña took charge of the Fan Zone Pod Stage, providing fans on the ground with exclusive trailer breakdowns, clips, and interactive fan moments.
Breaking Updates from Your Favorite Titles
Avatar: The Last Airbender Fans of Avatar: The Last Airbender rejoiced as Season 2 was officially announced to be in production! Miya Cech will be taking on the role of the beloved Toph Beifong. Executive Producers Christine Boylan and Jabbar Raisani shared their excitement about Cech’s casting:
Miya Cech
“We make a point of reviewing submissions separately and after countless tapes, we both had the same reaction … Miya is our Toph! Miya is a brilliant performer who knows how to precisely balance the sarcastic sense of humor, stubbornness, and vulnerability that is Toph Beifong. Her physicality and emotional dexterity really put her in a class of one.”
Arcane Mark your calendars! The final chapter of Arcane is set to drop in three intense acts: Act 1 on November 9, Act 2 on November 16, and Act 3 on November 23. Fans of this acclaimed series won’t want to miss the epic conclusion!
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kjz–4ORYac
One Piece Excitement soared for One Piece Season 2 with the introduction of Baroque Works’ iconic duo, Mr. 0 and Miss All-Sunday. Catch the very first table read with the new cast here.
SAKAMOTO DAYS Prepare yourself for an adrenaline-packed anime experience! The long-awaited adaptation of SAKAMOTO DAYS, brought to life by the legendary studio behind Baki Hanma and AKIRA, is coming to Netflix soon.
The Sandman Fans can once again immerse themselves in the fantastical world of Dreaming. The Sandman Season 2 is coming back to Netflix in 2025, and an exclusive behind-the-scenes look promises to make the wait worthwhile.
Squid Game The brutal world of Squid Game continues. Season 2 premieres on December 26, 2024, but you can dive into the action early with Squid Game: Unleashed. Watch as Avatar: The Last Airbender stars Dallas Liu and Ian Ousley take on the game’s challenges!
Wednesday Everyone’s favorite dark and quirky teen is back! Wednesday Season 2 is set for release in 2025, but fans can enjoy a behind-the-scenes sneak peek of the production right now.
What’s Next?
From anime adaptations and new seasons of iconic series to exclusive movie reveals, Geeked Week 2024 delivered more than fans could have ever hoped for. Be sure to stay tuned to Netflix for all the latest announcements and sneak peeks as we move closer to 2025.
This August, brace yourself for another heartwarming journey as Love Next Door hits Netflix, brought to you by the creative minds behind the beloved series Hometown Cha-Cha-Cha. Directed by Yoo Je-won and written by Shin Ha-eun, this new K-RomCom promises to deliver the same charm, wit, and emotional depth that made its predecessor a global sensation.
Meet Bae Seok-ryu and Choi Seung-hyo
The story revolves around Bae Seok-ryu, portrayed by the talented Jung So-min. After a string of unfortunate events, Seok-ryu is determined to start anew. Her path crosses with Choi Seung-hyo, played by the charismatic Jung Hae-in, a young and accomplished architect with a bright future. Their lives are intertwined by more than just fate—Seung-hyo happens to be the son of Seok-ryu’s mother’s close friend, a connection that brings back a flood of awkward childhood memories.
Old Memories, New Beginnings
As adults, Seok-ryu and Seung-hyo must navigate the complexities of their shared past. Will their childhood memories stand in the way of a blossoming romance, or will they find a way to embrace their second chance at love? With its engaging storyline, Love Next Door explores themes of forgiveness, rediscovery, and the unpredictable nature of love.
Mark Your Calendars
Love Next Door begins streaming globally on Netflix starting August 17, with a special release in LATAM on August 31. Don’t miss out on what’s sure to be another K-drama hit that will tug at your heartstrings and keep you coming back for more.
August 2024 is shaping up to be an exciting month for Netflix subscribers, with a plethora of new content ready to hit the streaming service. From gripping dramas and heartwarming comedies to thrilling action flicks and captivating documentaries, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Whether you’re looking to unwind with a light-hearted series or immerse yourself in a thought-provoking film, Netflix’s August lineup offers a diverse array of entertainment options. Let’s dive into the most anticipated releases that you won’t want to miss.
A New Jersey construction worker (Mark Wahlberg) goes from regular guy to aspiring spy when his long-lost high school sweetheart (Halle Berry) recruits him for a high-stakes espionage mission.
EMOTIONAL ROLLERCOASTERS
A Good Girl’s Guide to Murder (Series) Launch date: August 1 | Stream it here
Five years after the murder of a 17-year-old girl in a sleepy English town, one student is determined to uncover the truth and find the real killer.
Lovely Runner (Series) Launch date: August 1 | Stream it here
Years after a K-pop star saves her life, a fan learns of his death — but when she’s suddenly transported to the past, she sets out to change their fate.
Lolo and the Kid (Film) Launch date: August 7 | Stream it here
A hustler and the child he took in routinely con the wealthy — but a life-changing opportunity could end their inseparable bond.
An enterprising elevator operator secures funding for his app but faces unexpected setbacks when he catches feelings for his investor’s girlfriend.
ANTICIPATED RETURNS
From Me to You: Kimi ni Todoke: Season 3 (Series) Launch date: August 1 | Stream it here
As a new couple, Sawako and Kazehaya experience their first date, first school trip and more. Meanwhile, their friends’ love stories also begin to unfold.
Unstable: Season 2 (Series) Launch date: August 1 | Stream it here
The Hargreeves siblings have scattered after the climactic showdown at the Hotel Oblivion led to a complete reset of their timeline. Stripped of their powers, each is left to fend for themselves and find a new normal — with wildly varying degrees of success. Yet the trappings of their uncanny new world prove too hard to ignore for very long. Their father Reginald, alive and well, has stepped out of the shadows and into the public eye, overseeing a powerful and nefarious business empire. A mysterious association known as The Keepers holds clandestine meetings believing the reality they’re living in is a lie and a great reckoning is coming. As these strange new forces conspire around them, the Umbrella Academy must come together one last time — and risk upsetting the shaky peace they’ve all endured so much to secure — to finally set things right.
Emily’s life in Paris may have beaucoup drama, but she’s ready to make bold choices to get everything she wants from the city — and man — of her dreams.
REEL TO REAL
The Influencer (Series) Launch date: August 6 | Stream it here
Numerous influencers in Korea compete to determine who has the utmost influence on social media. Who will reach the pinN/Acle of power and status?
Love Is Blind: UK (Series) Launch date: August 7 | Stream it here
Emma and Matt Willis host a social experiment where British singles look for love and get engaged before meeting in person. But who will say “I do”?
A-List to Playlist (Series) Launch date: August 30 | Stream it here
With a 20-year acting career, Cho Jung-seok takes on the challenge of debuting as a singer in 100 days, mobilizing his entire network against the clock!
MORE FOR YOUR MUST-WATCH LIST
Mad Men: Seasons 1 to 7 (Series) Launch date: August 1 | Stream it here
Season 1: It’s 1960, and ad executive Don Draper rules the roost at New York’s Sterling Cooper Advertising Agency amid a glamorous backdrop.
Season 2: As changes mount within advertising agency Sterling Cooper, brilliant executive Don Draper finds that he must work harder at staying ahead.
Season 3: The martini-sipping, chain-smoking execs of ad agency Sterling Cooper — led by Don Draper — wade deeper into the turbulence of the 1960s.
Season 4: Debonair advertising exec Don Draper continues to build his own fledgling agency even as his personal life slides deeper into destructive habits.
Season 5: Brilliant, hard-drinking advertising exec Don Draper is back for more drama in this critically acclaimed show’s long-awaited fifth season.
Season 6: Madison Avenue’s most notorious advertising executive, Don Draper, returns to battle more personal demons stemming from his mysterious past.
Season 7: After six years of uncanny love for the 1960s detail, it’s time to say farewell to Sterling Cooper & Partners with an explosive final season.
Inside the Mind of a Dog (Documentary) Launch date: August 9 | Stream it here
Embark on a delightful journey into the world of dogs in this documentary that reveals scientific and emotioN/Al insights about our lovable BFFs.
Daughters (Documentary) Launch date: August 14 | Stream it here
Four young girls prepare for a special Daddy Daughter Dance with their incarcerated fathers, as part of a unique fatherhood program in a Washington, D.C. jail.
Backyard Wilderness (Documentary) Launch date: August 15 | Stream it here
This inventive nature documentary chronicles a child’s awakening to the complex web of animals and plants nestled in the woods around her suburban home.
Terror Tuesday: Extreme (Series) Launch date: August 20 | Stream it here
Inspired by the Thai horror radio show “Angkhan Khlumpong,” this series presents eight stories based on real-life experiences shared by listeners.
Pop Star Academy: KATSEYE (Documentary) Launch date: August 21 | Stream it here
The series follows 20 contestants from around the world over a year-long journey as they compete to become KATSEYE, a one-of-a-kind global girl group formed using KPOP methodologies. With unprecedented access, unfolding over eight episodes, the result is a compelling portrayal of the road to international stardom, including insight into the unique training and development program developed by HYBE and Geffen Records.
GG Precinct (Series) Launch date: August 22 | Stream it here
Facing a trail of murders staged as chilling word games, a rookie police captain and a goofy detective race to solve a serial killer’s deadly puzzles.
Their first week of high school. The biggest party of the year. Mistakes will be made as four teenage boys navigate a night of mayhem and debauchery.
Chastity High (Series) Launch date: August 29 | Stream it here
When an ultra-elite high school enforces a strict “No Romance” rule that expels anyone caught dating, a student secretly helps her classmates for cash.
As discord reigns on Mount Olympus and almighty Zeus spirals into paranoia, three mortals are destined to reshape the future of humankind.
With so many incredible new titles arriving on Netflix this August, viewers are in for a treat. Whether you’re binge-watching your favorite series, discovering new films, or exploring hidden gems, there’s no shortage of entertainment to keep you engaged all month long. So, grab your popcorn, settle in, and get ready to explore all the exciting new content that Netflix has to offer. Happy streaming!
Netflix has announced that the highly anticipated Season 2 of Squid Game will premiere on December 26, 2024, with the final season set to follow in 2025. The announcement was made through a heartfelt letter from Hwang Dong-hyuk, the Executive Producer, Writer, and Director of the series, to fans worldwide.
About Season Two
Three years after winning the Squid Game, Player 456 remains relentless in his quest to find those responsible for the game and put an end to their vicious sport. Using his fortune to fund the search, Gi-hun starts by tracking down the man in a sharp suit playing ddakji in the subway. However, when his efforts finally bear fruit, he discovers that the path to dismantling the organization is deadlier than he imagined: to end the game, he must re-enter it.
Netflix Philippines pulled out all the stops to celebrate the arrival of PULANG ARAW, the country’s biggest historical series of 2024. The Peninsula Manila Hotel became a beacon of glamour and anticipation on July 9, 2024, as a dazzling array of celebrities, press, content creators, and VIPs gathered for the series’ star-studded premiere event. All were eager to catch the first glimpse of what is touted to be a groundbreaking series.
Celebrity Insights and Historical Portrayals
Leading the charge were the captivating stars of PULANG ARAW – Barbie Forteza, Sanya Lopez, David Licauco, and Alden Richards – who commanded the spotlight with their captivating presence. The supporting cast also graced the red carpet, adding another layer of intrigue as they hinted at the intricate web of stories woven within the series. Dressed in 1940s attire, reflective of their characters’ era with impeccable style in “Pulang Araw,” they shared insights into their roles and the deep connections to Philippine history they portray.
Lead stars Barbie Forteza, Sanya Lopez, David Licauco, and Alden Richards were the cynosure of all eyes, donned in striking 1940s attire, reflecting their characters’ era with impeccable style.
Photo credit: Netflix
Alden Richards, portraying Eduardo dela Cruz, shared his deep connection with the project, reflecting on its decade-long journey from conception to screen. He shares that the project has been a long-awaited endeavor for him and the production team, “Nabanggit na po ito sa akin ng aking boss na si Ms. Annette (GMA Executive Atty. Annette Gozon-Valdes, President of GMA Films and GMA Worldwide) sampung taon na ang nakakalipas.” (“This was mentioned to me by my boss, Ms. Annette, ten years ago”). He highlighted the series’ significance in bringing forgotten historical narratives to the forefront of modern consciousness.
Barbie Forteza, embodying the vivacious Adelina dela Cruz, shared her enthusiasm for showcasing vaudeville within the series, drawing parallels between the art form and the enduring spirit of finding joy amidst adversity. “Kahit sa buhay, kahit na anong kinakaharap mong problema at paghihirap, lahat ‘yun ay kakalimutan mo, kasi the show must go on,” (“Even in life, no matter what hardships you face, you’d forget them all, because the show must go on”)
Sanya Lopez, who steps into the shoes of Teresita, elaborated on the series’ intent to educate the current generation about the sacrifices that shaped their freedoms. “Para sa akin ‘yun ‘yung katangian ng isang magiting na babae, na hindi lang noong panahon ng mga Hapon o ng digmaan, kundi sa panahon ngayon ng mga makabagong Teresita. Na patuloy lumalaban sa mga pagsubok, sa mga panga-abuso, sa pangmamaliit. Na lumalaban para sa kanilang karapatan,” (“For me, that’s the main characteristic of a brave woman, not only during that period, but even today, a time of modern-day Teresitas. They continue to fight the challenges, the abuse, and the oppression. They fight for their rights,”) She also shared her privileged experience of conversing with actual comfort women as part of the preparation for the role, which added a profound layer to her portrayal. Echoing her sentiment, Alden emphasized the importance of remembering the heroes of yesteryears, which he believes is a cornerstone of the series.
David Licauco, portraying the conflicted Hiroshi Tanaka, shared insights into his character’s dilemmas of heart versus duty, adding layers to the narrative fabric of ‘Pulang Araw’. Sanya also highlighted her character’s embodiment of courage, drawing inspiration from historical figures to deliver a performance that connects with both historical enthusiasts and casual viewers alike.
Photo credit: Netflix
Barbie and David, known collectively as ‘BarDa,’ discussed their dynamic working together again. For David, one particular scene made him realize how different Barbie is in this show, ‘yung iksena na nag-I love you ako kay Barbie, dun ako may nakitang kakaiba. Napakagaling ni Barbie Forteza bilang aktres.” (“The scene where I told Barbie I love her, I saw something different there. Barbie Forteza is a brilliant actress.”). On the other hand, Barbie not only commended him for his Japanese-speaking skills but also applauded David for the growth in his passion for acting, “Natutunan niyang mahalin ‘yung craft. (…) Ibang David Licauco po talaga ang mapapanood natin dito, and I’m just very proud of him.” (“He learned to love the craft. (…) We’ll get to see a different David Licauco here, and I’m just very proud of him.”)
Photo credit: Netflix
Behind the Scenes and Beyond
The influence of vaudeville is a significant element in ‘Pulang Araw,’ especially for the characters played by Barbie and Sanya. The actresses shared their memorable experiences preparing for these roles, highlighting the rigorous tap dance sessions they undertook before filming commenced. “Tap dance classes, bago pa man magsimula ang taping. Ang saya ng experience kasi sobrang lapit sa puso ko si Sanya.” (“Tap dance classes, even before we started filming. The experience was fun because Sanya is someone I hold close to my heart.”) Sanya was equally enthused with the experience, cherishing the moments she spent training with Barbie, “Kumakanta habang nagta-tap dance—umaarte habang nagta-tap dance. (…) Masarap sa feeling na meron kaming bagong natutunan para sa palabas na ito.” (“Singing while tap dancing—acting while tap dancing. (…) It’s a great experience to learn something new for this show.”)
Photo credit: Netflix
To conclude the event, the supporting cast composed of Sef Cadeyona, Aidan Veneracion, Neil Ryan Sese, Jay Arcilla, Ashley Ortega, Mikoy Morales, Rochelle Pangilinan-Solinap, Angelu de Leon, and Epy Quizon headed to the stage to introduce their characters and hint at their relationships with the main cast, teasing viewers with their intriguing connections and hinting at the complex interplay of relationships that viewers can expect. The event culminated with a screening of the pilot episode, leaving the audience eager for the series’ official release.
PULANG ARAW premieres first on Netflix starting Friday, July 26, 72 hours before free TV airing.
About PULANG ARAW
Pulang Araw chronicles the lives of Adelina (Forteza), Teresita (Lopez), Hiroshi (Licauco), and Eduardo (Richards) during the Japanese occupation of the Philippines. Find out how the characters navigate an intricate web of loyalty, betrayals, sacrifices, and resilience amidst the backdrop of a war ravaging the country.
PULANG ARAWis directed by Dominic Zapata and written by Suzette Doctolero.
