Filipino-American producer Danny Aguilar, president and founder of Carpe Diem Pictures based in Dallas, Texas, USA, collaborates with Hollywood actors and local artists in an upcoming romantic comedy film “Take Me To Banaue.”
Written by Jason Rogers and Danny Aguilar, “Take Me To Banaue” follows Hank, a gawky American engineer, in his pursuit to meet the perfect girlfriend who he hopes will become his wife.
After discovering the real truth about the stunning woman he fell for, Hank has to spend the days and hours grappling with a deal from a businesswoman and listening to his friend’s advice – all as he tries to make it to Banaue... for the woman he loves.
The film includes talented and amazing cast ensemble such as:
Brandon Melo – an American actor, model, and entrepreneur based in Boston, Massachusetts. He plays the protagonist Hank, an engineer who sees the world in black and white and finds comfort in that which is measurable.
Maureen Wroblewitz – a Filipina-German actress, TV host, and fashion model, best known for winning the fifth season of “Asia’s Next Top Model.” She represented the Philippines in the competition, and became the first Filipina to win. She also placed first runner-up at the Miss Universe Philippines 2021. She plays the role of Grace, a young, attractive girl from Banaue who loves her family deeply and the love interest of Hank.
Thea Tolentino – a Filipino actress known for her role in GMA 7’s drama series “The Half Sisters.” She started her career as one of the winners of the second season of “Protégé,” a talent search-reality show. She’s an exclusive talent of GMA network. Thea plays the role of Jinky, a successful entrepreneur who has worked hard to achieve the success she has attained and the owner of the hotel where Hank stays while in Baguio.
Dylan Rogers – an actor and model based in Chicago, Illinois, USA. His acting career started in theater and appeared in numerous films and TV shows. Dylan plays the role of Jordan, a medical doctor and best friend of Hank who continues to live a life like he did during his youth: sowing his wild oats.
MJ Lastimosa – an engineer, host, actress, and a beauty queen, who was crowned Miss Universe Philippines 2014. She represented the country at the Miss Universe 2014 and finished as a Top 10 semi-finalist. She plays the role of Paloma, an escort and the mentor of Grace.
Norman Balbuena, a.k.a. Boobay – a Filipino comedian, actor, and TV host. In 2019, he joined Super Tekla in the comedy variety talk show “The Boobay And The Tekla Show.” Boobay plays the role of Rocky, a talented, witty, and flamboyant stylist who goes after Hank’s appearance and fashion.
Principal photography of “Take Me To Banaue” is scheduled to start in Baguio City and Banaue, Ifugao on March 4.
Danny Aguilar, producer, director and co-writer of the upcoming movie, said: "When we think of the Philippine landscape, the first thing that comes to mind is beautiful beaches with white sands and crystal clear water. But there are beautiful mountain areas that inspire love.
"The country is a magnet for tourists and those who desire to look for lifetime partners. Because of this, I always thought about a romantic story with cross-cultural flare while showcasing the beauty of the Philippines and its culture.
"In addition, I also wanted the story to highlight another area of the country that possesses underrated beauty with its landscape. I have a special attachment and affiliation with the Cordillera Region of the Philippines. Although I did not grow up in that area, it holds a dear place in my heart. I spent seven (7) years in Baguio City and completed my bachelor’s degree at a premier university there. And there is Banaue, which is also part of the Cordillera Region and is considered as the eighth wonder of the world.
"Thus, the film “Take Me To Banaue” was born, which I co-wrote with a talented writer. The film follows Hank, a gawky American engineer in his pursuit to meet the perfect girlfriend who he hopes will become his wife.
"After discovering the real truth about the stunning woman he fell for, Hank has to spend the days and hours grappling with a deal from a businesswoman and listening to his friend’s advice — all as he tries to make it to Banaue...for that woman he loves.
"The primary theme of “Take Me To Banaue” is justification.
"The four major characters, Hank, our protagonist; Grace, Hank’s love interest; Jinky, an entrepreneur with a colonial mentally that Americans are superior race; and Jordan, a doctor and Hank’s best friend who is suave, smart and confident, all try to justify their actions and choices in life.
"This script was conceptualized and developed taking into account that something personal is also universal. I have an interracial marriage (I am a Filipino, married to a Japanese woman). The journey of the Protagonist embodies an authenticity that I believed many people from all walks of life can relate with.
"Through the voices of the four main characters in the film, we begin to understand their journey and struggles. We can profoundly see their choices they made which impact their way of living. These characters represent segments of easily identifiable parts of society.
"I hope “Take Me To Banaue” will inspire and transform people in a more cathartic way. And I hope this film can put the Philippines on the proverbial Hollywood map.
"And, I want everyone to see my homeland as more than a place with gorgeous beaches and delicious cuisine. I want them to go deeper and love it as I love it.
"Carpe Diem Pictures’ goal is to produce a motion picture that will entertain, educate, inspire, and transform the spirit of true independent filmmaking through provocative story telling."