Award-winning showbiz personalities Ricky Davao and Gina Alajar team up for the first time in a romantic-comedy movie entitled "Monday First Screening" under Net25 Films that tackles the ups and downs of aging seniors.

During a recent special movie screening at EVM Convention Center in Quezon City, Ricky and Gina expressed gratitude for being cast as leads despite their age. The celebrities also said why they accepted the project.

"I read the material. Ang ganda. Pangalawa, ang swerte ko naman dahil sa age ko na ito, senior na ako, isa akong bida (sa pelikula). Love story pa. Huling nagbida ako sa pelikula before the pandemic for Cinemalaya," Davao said.

(I read the material. It's beautiful. Second, I'm lucky because of my age, I'm a senior and a star (in a movie). It's a love story. The last time I played lead in a movie was before the pandemic for Cinemalaya.)

Davao, 62, expressed his honor at being paired with Alajar in a movie.

"Ang sarap ng feeling na bida kami ni Gina Alajar. I felt so important kasi Net 25 waited for us. Gina and I were busy but they waited for us. So noong nagkaroon ng chance, sakto. Tapos ang kasama namin magagaling pa na artista," he said.

(It's a good feeling that Gina Alajar and I are the stars. I felt so important because Net 25 waited for us. Gina and I were busy, but they waited for us. So when we got the chance, it was right. Then we had great actors with us.)

Davao stated that he couldn't take on the project right away since he was currently directing a TV series outside of Metro Manila.

Alajar, 64, quoted content consultant for Net25 Wilma Galvante as saying that the male lead of the movie had no other choice but Davao. "She loves the pairing kaya wala siyang ibang choice."

"I'm grateful and so proud na magkasama kami (sa movie) dahil matagal na kaming magkaibigan ni Ricky. I'm thankful na napili kami para maging bida sa movie. Sa dinami-rami ng seniors na ka-edad namin sa industry na ito, kami ang napili," she added.

(I'm grateful and proud that Ricky and I are in the movie together since we've been friends for a long time. I am grateful that we were selected to appear in the film. Out of all the seniors in our industry, we were selected.)

Alajar confirmed that she readily agreed to participate in the "Monday First Screening" without any hesitation.

"Hindi ako nag- second thought when this was offered to me dahil bihirang mapansin ang ganitong klaseng storya. Usually hindi naman superstars ang isang artista kapag nandito na sa ganitong edad. Madalas ang lead role nasa young stars," she added.

(I didn't give it a second thought when this was offered to me because this story is rarely noticed. Usually, actors are not superstars when they reach this age. The lead role is given to the young stars.)

The movie "Monday First Screening" is NET25 Films' inaugural cinematic experience. It's a heartwarming and captivating tale that transcends generations and brings families closer. This highly anticipated movie, designed to resonate with every family member, is set to light up screens nationwide starting Aug. 30.

Quality entertainment

"Monday First Screening" is a triumph in family-oriented storytelling, reaffirming NET25's commitment to delivering quality entertainment that viewers of all ages can enjoy.

As a network renowned for its wholesome programming, NET25 Films seamlessly transitions from the small to the big screen with a film that touches the hearts of young and old alike.

At the core of this cinematic gem lies a narrative that speaks to the universal human experience: the quest for love, the value of companionship, and the power of second chances.

In a world where cinematic offerings often cater to specific demographics, "Monday First Screening" stands out as a movie that bridges generations, fostering meaningful conversations and shared moments among family members.

Unlike anything seen before in Filipino cinema, "Monday First Screening" celebrates life's most cherished aspects. The film offers a poignant reminder that life's journey is best experienced when shared with loved ones through laughter, tears, and the enchantment of unexpected connections.

NET25 Films boldly ventures into unexplored territory by highlighting the stories of senior citizens seeking love and fulfillment. This unique perspective has captured the hearts of audiences nationwide, as evidenced by the flood of online comments and reviews praising the film's authenticity and relatability. With Davao and Alajar leading an exceptional cast, "Monday First Screening" delivers heartfelt and inspiring performances.

Director Benedict Mique's skillful storytelling brings to life characters that mirror the rich tapestry of human emotions, providing a canvas upon which family members can reflect, discuss, and connect.

"Monday First Screening" is not just a movie; it's an experience that invites families to come together, share laughter, shed tears, and leave the cinema with hearts warmed and spirits uplifted. As NET25's first foray into cinema, the film encapsulates the network's dedication to fostering strong family bonds through meaningful entertainment.