Zanjoe Marudo’s compelling performance as lead actor in the Philippine adaptation of the Korean drama “Keys to the Heart,” currently streaming on the global platform Netflix, has been getting a lot of nods.

Observers note the maturity and depth of Zanjoe’s acting as he essays the role of a troubled and washed-up boxer in the movie he shares stellar billing with Ms. Dolly De Leon (Los Angeles  Film Critics Best Supporting Actress victory for Triangle of Sadness) and up and coming serious actor Elijah Canlas.

Locally produced by Reality MM Studios, Creative Leaders Group 8, and VIVA Films, “Keys to the Heart” is the number two most-watched movie on Netflix Philippines, a day after streaming began on Oct. 4.

"Keys to the Heart" is a heartwarming family drama that follows the struggles of Joma (played by Marudo), as he moves back and tries to fit in with his family he hasn’t seen and known for years.

Reality MM Studios producers Dondon  Monteverde and Erik Matti saw the potential of “Keys to the Heart” when it was first presented to them. They worked immediately on developing a version that maintains the essence of the original version from CJ Entertainment while giving it a genuinely Filipino sensibility by bringing in Kerwin Go (Mina-Anud) to direct the film. The Philippine adaptation’s ending is different from the Korean version.

Meanwhile, Dolly de Leon plays the role of Joma’s long-lost mother in the movie, while the autistic pianist brother, Jayjay, is played by Elijah Canlas.

Marudo’s outstanding portrayal can be gleaned from his natural ability to assimilate into his character as a washed-up boxer. The subtlety of his nuances and impeccable comedic timing greatly complement the complexities of his role.

For his part, Eijah Canlas’ preparation for the role is noteworthy as he learned not only to play the piano with authenticity and competence but also in the remarkable manner he managed to bring to life a genius pianist with savant syndrome. Elijah spent some time with a piano teacher to help him with the technical know-how of a real pianist. He also exposed himself to people with autism to experience and live their life and behavior.

The two actors are proving that they are, indeed, the best drama performers of their generation.

The producers behind “Keys to the Heart” -- Reality MM Studios, Creative Leaders Group 8, and VIVA Films --  are also behind  “Ultimate Oppa,” a romantic comedy shot in South Korea and starring Bela Padilla, Kim Gun Woo (The Glory) and Cho Tae Gwan (Descendants of the Sun, My Secret Terrius).

It is safe to say that more collaborations will emerge from the partnership between Reality MM Studios and Creative Leaders Group 8 led by BJ Song, as they get ready for the local adaptation of Korean horror top-grosser “Gonjiam: Haunted Asylum” and the successful vigilante series, “Taxi Driver.”

Reality MM Studios is no stranger to producing Filipino content that reaches global audiences. Most recently, its zombie flick, “Day Zero” featuring Brandon Vera and MJ Lastimosa, is streamed in Asia and is acquired by WellGo for a wide digital release in the US.

The studio has a lot in its pipeline, with three major series to be directed by Matti that will start streaming within the next two years. “Keys to the Heart” is currently streaming exclusively on Netflix.