Ageless heartthrob Ian Veneracion and one of today's hottest Gen Z stars, Heaven Peralejo, are locked in a May-December affair that turns awry one night when an intruder, played by Mon Confiado, disturbs the peace.
The plot is from their upcoming movie called "Nanahimik Ang Gabi" (A Silent Night) which is written and directed by award-winning director Shugo Praico. It is the first-ever entry of indie film producer Rein Entertainment to the Metro Manila Film Festival which starts on Christmas Day, Dec. 25.
The suspense-thriller actually has many firsts. It is the only MMFF entry utilizing just three actors. How they manage to keep the cliffhanger suspense in close to two hours is what the viewers need to see, and they need to watch until the end, said director Shugo.
"Nanahimik Ang Gabi" is also where the public will get to see Heaven in her first daring role as a "sugar baby" to her "sugar daddy" Ian who also engages in his first onscreen kiss in recent memory.
Heaven said she doesn't mind being called a sexy actress because of her role in the film, although she made it clear that she won't go farther with showing more skin in the future.
In the trailer, she is shown swimming in a two-piece bikini, having loving scenes with Ian while seated on his lap, and being tied to the bed.
"If I am sexy, I don't mind being called a sexy actress. People are just giving a malicious intent on the word sexy, but why can't women be sexy? If they call me that, then at least am convinced that my portrayal worked," the 23-year-old stated.
Ian, meanwhile, added: "Hindi point ng movie ang magpa-sexy, it's just part of the characterization. What's important is the storytelling. The scary or sexy parts are just by-products of the whole story, not the main point."
Heaven said she only accepted the role after fully reading the script and understanding its "beautiful message."
"Some members of this generation find the idea of being a Sugar Baby appealing because it lets them lead a glamorous life. The film sends a message that being a sugar baby has its consequences. Every choice you make in life has its consequences, whether it's good or bad. I told myself that I want to be part of this film that is thought-provoking," the young actress remarked.
Producer Lino Cayetano expressed hopes that "Nanahimik Ang Gabi" will serve as a "catalyst" for the revival of the Philippine movie industry after the pandemic, along with other MMFF entries.
"We'll wait for the box office (results), but we're already talking about a follow-up with Direk Shugo. The movie's too good and it deserves a Part 2 or Part 3," he pointed out.