Kevin Kwan, Lawrence Bender to create 'love letter to the Philippines'


Author Kevin Kwan and film producer Lawrence Bender are currently in Manila.

They were tapped to speak at the World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC) global summit.

During a panel discussion Thursday, Bender revealed his and Kwan's plan to shoot a movie here.

"One of the reasons why we're here is because we want to make a movie here," said Bender, known for producing a number of huge Hollywood hits including "Inglourious Basterds," "Anna And The King," "Good Will Hunting," among many others.

Pressed for details, he added that they intend for the film to be like "a love letter to the Philippines," with Kwan writing the script.

Kwan, who is close to both Kris Aquino and Heart Evangelista, shared how much he loves the Philippines.

"It's a country with so many amazing locations, cultures, and flavors. And of course, the people are amazing," he said.

"This is my fourth trip, always a pleasure to be back," The "Crazy Rich Asians" author added.

Bender went on to point out how movies could help boost a country's tourism.

"When we come into an area to shoot, we hire people, we bring in people, we go to hotels, we rent cars," he said. "It's a local economy that we create."

"And then you have the movie stars that go on set and talk about how great it is to go on location. So it's a really great way to promote," he continued. "We're hoping that it happens here because we really want to come and shoot this movie here."