While every film tells a story – that of characters, conflicts and even subliminal messages – few are made carrying a clear sense of purpose that goes beyond what the audience sees on screen. The kind where viewers, as the credits roll, begin to think, “every movie should be made that way.”
WeLovePost, — or WLP as the production house fondly called – had this in mind when they laid out the plans for Nilalang, the outfit’s official entry into the 2015 Metro Manila Film Festival.
A team comprised mainly of people with roots in the advertising industry, Nilalang infused the stringent discipline that goes into making a branded commercial. From storytelling, to casting, shooting, editing and even promotions, every step was meticulously prepared to set the film up for success in the local box office as well as in the international market.
Pedring Lopez. The film’s director, says that, “We want to make a statement about the craft of filmmaking; to set a standard for Filipino films – in terms of storytelling, production values, and all other elements that go into a picture. We Pinoys are among the most creative people in the world. It’s about time our work reflected that.”
Rex Lopez. WLP’s Executive Creative Director for Content, shares, “We did Nilalang in an unconventional way. Not to be different for the sake of being different, but because we believe that today’s viewers are more discerning. They know when they’re just being taken for a ride; or when they’re seeing really good work. They can tell when big names are just a smokescreen for a lack of depth in the story or characters.
According to producers Roy Lopez and Maia Yambao, there is growing anticipation for the film’s distribution in Japan, where Maria Ozawa, the film’s female lead, enjoys a cult following. “This is one of the ways that ‘ready-for-the-world’ vision is carried out thru Nilalang,” says actor Troy Montero, a partner in WLP. He adds that, “We didn’t limit ourselves to what or who was available. We thought out of the box and came up with a casting coup,” in reference to Ozawa sharing top billing with proven leading man Cesar Montano.
“Nilalang” is a WLP venture with Haunted Tower Pictures, Paralux Studios, and VIVA Films; opening December 25, 2015 in cinemas nationwide.