Do opposites really attract? Can sparks fly between two totally contrasting characters coming from totally disparate backgrounds?
For its follow-up offering for 2019, ALV Films gives a millennial twist to the rich boy-poor girl love story in Because I Love You, starring Shaira Diaz and David Licauco, megged by award-winning director Joel Lamangan.
The chinito heartthrob and Kapuso actor plays Rael, the cool, quiet and reserved executive and heir to his family’s business empire, whose conservative roots have shaped him into stereotyped thinking, including matters of the heart.
For her part, Shaira plays Summer, the tenacious, street-smart firefighter who proudly continues her departed dad’s heroic legacy, much to the chagrin of her mom who wishes her to be a flight attendant or a beauty queen.
But just how do they cross paths? And who falls for the other first?
One thing’s for sure though. Netizens noticed the chemistry between David and Shaira as early as last year, when they guested for Magpakailanman’s ‘Nakawin Natin Ang Bawat Sandali’ episode last July 2018, which will be replayed this coming Saturday, June 8. The couple became one of the top trending topics on social media. Their “kilig-worthy” tandem was heightened all the more during their guesting for One Hugot Away, GMA-7’s web/TV project last March.
The two Kapuso artists have figured prominently in GMA-7’s top-rating teleseryes. Some of Shaira’s more recent projects include Contessa (2017), Pamilya Roces (2018) and Love You Two (2019). David’s recent outings include Mulawin vs. Ravena (2017), Kapag Nahati Ang Puso (2018) and TODA One I Love (2019).
Because I Love You also stars Martin del Rosario, Michelle Dee, Samantha Lopez, Bernadette Allyson, Monsour del Rosario, Mr. World Philippines 2018 JB Saliba, Timothy Lawrence Yap, Bryan Benedict, IC Mendoza, Victor Basa, Rob Sy, Chris Leonardo, LM Mercado, Afi Africa, Melo Merkona, Jao Mapa, and Mosang, with special cameo appearances by Miss Multinational 2017 Sophia Senoron, Miss Eco International 2018 Cynthia Thomalla, RJ Ledesma and newly-elect Senator Francis Tolentino.
ALV Films President Arnold Vegafria is greatly excited about the loveteam’s potential, particularly for today’s young fans. He says, “For this project, I wanted to launch new artists, new faces, a new love team. I know it’s a big risk, but I strongly believe in the movie’s potential. It’s fresh content, and a very aspirational story, and I hope the movie spreads through word-of-mouth.”
“With their combined strengths as influencers and exemplary role models for the youth, they can rightfully be hailed as today’s fast-rising millennial icons. I have always believed in David and Shaira’s acting potential, and it’s high time that they get their first big break through this launching movie.”
“I have always been excited about producing movies, because it’s my way of giving back to the industry. We hope to create more jobs and make the industry flourish, and make our films competitive in foreign film festivals,” Vegafria adds.
For some of the movie’s pivotal scenes, the producers spared no expense in recreating the lavish and opulent cinematic backdrops reminiscent of the acclaimed 1990 romcom Pretty Woman, which starred Julia Roberts and Richard Gere.
David underwent intensive training in horseback riding and polo, and a chopper was also flown in for an authentic ‘old rich’ vibe.
The feel-good romcom, written by Charlotte Dianco, a popular Wattpad writer and TV director, also marks the second offering of ALV Films for this year.
The movie’s theme song is a remake of the Dave Clark Five and Julian Lennon hit of the same title, rearranged by Vincent de Jesus and performed by RnB Prince Kris Lawrence.
Produced by ALV Films in cooperation with Garahe Films, distributed by Regal Films, Because I Love You opens in local cinemas on June 26.