Khalil Ramos and Ashley Ortega will tell the story of Gen Z in their Cinemalaya Film 'As If It's True' (Still image from the movie)
On social media, we can see various posts that depict different stereotypes about Gen Z, such as they have a short attention span or they need more attention and rewards. Studies supported some of these claims.
To show people the other side of the coin, Kapuso actor Khalil Ramos accepted the lead role project for the movie “As If It’s True.” Directed by John Rogers, this movie is one of the competing entries in this year’s Cinemalaya Film Festival, which also marks Khalil’s first lead role in the said movie festival. This follows the story of two struggling young adults trying to find their respective spaces in this vast world.
Here, Khalil plays the role of James, a struggling musician suffering from depression, alongside Gemma Watson (Ashley Orgetga), a social media influencer struggling to maintain the interest of her followers.
“Eversince pandemic kating-kati akong bumalik sa paggawa ng pelikula. The story compelled me,” the “Liway” actor tells Manila Bulletin Lifestyle when asked what made him accept the role during Cinemalaya's press conference held last Wednesday, July 5, 2023 at the Philippine International Convention Center (PICC), Pasay City. “It explores a lot of problems that the new generation is facing, especially now that there are different mediums artists are using, including social media. Our film tackles the problem of Gen Z on staying authentic. Ito ba talaga yung tunay na nangyayari sa buhay mo o ito yung pinapakita mo sa mga viewers mo? (It is what’s happening in your life or this what you want your followers to see).”
This is the first time Khalil and Ashley Ortega have paired together for a project. Both are excited to share their works with the viewers, with the hope that they can share the message this movie aims to convey.
“This movie is something relatable to our generation—the young adult,” Ashley says.
Cinemalaya will run from Aug. 4 to 13, 2023 at PICC. For more information, click here.