International Blockbusters Featuring Filipino Stars

In the diverse and evolving landscape of entertainment, Filipino actors have established their names as powerful forces, continuously captivating viewers worldwide with their exceptional talents.

From critically acclaimed movies and series to Hollywood blockbusters, these talented Filipinos have portrayed their cultural vibrancy, distinct perspectives, and undeniable charm on the entertainment scene.

Join us as we explore the phenomenal careers of these Filipino stars, delving into their achievements and their impact globally.

Triangle of Sadness – Dolly De Leon

Dolly De Leon has received a BAFTA nomination for her performance in TRIANGLE OF SADNESS. pic.twitter.com/V1OtRpODtP

— Film Updates (@FilmUpdates) January 19, 2023

Dolly De Leon, an impressive Filipina actress, wowed Hollywood in Triangle of Sadness. Acclaimed Ruben Östlund directed this masterpiece.

The story follows the unusual journey of Yaya (Charlbi Dean) and Carl (Harris Dickinson). They’re a celebrity couple on a luxury cruise after Fashion Week.

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Dolly plays the diligent toilet manager of the cruise ship. Her exemplary portrayal of her role earned her a Best Supporting Actress nomination at the Golden Globes.

Guardians of the Galaxy – Dave Bautista

Dave Bautista confirms “Guardians of the Galaxy vol 3” is his last MCU movie as Drax. pic.twitter.com/RydsZcOWz8

— Mcu Content (@MarvelsContent) January 4, 2023

This Filipino American actor Dave Bautista has become a staple name in Hollywood. He was a former professional wrestler until he transitioned to acting.

He is well-known as Drax in the “Guardians of the Galaxy,” where viewers saw his remarkable comedic skills and physical strength. In addition, he also appeared in “Blade Runner 2049.”

Superstore – Nico Santos

’Superstore’s Nico Santos joins ‘Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3’

(via @DEADLINE | https://t.co/laviBvrSc0) pic.twitter.com/AaHOl507Hx

— Fandom (@getFANDOM) June 14, 2022

Nico Santos captivated hearts with the TV series Superstore. Audiences loved his adorable character, Mateo Liwanag, a witty and dedicated staff at the Cloud 9 Superstore.

Nico Santos also appeared in Guardians of the Galaxy Vol.3. Santos not only displayed his acting skills, but also represented the Filipino community on US mainstream television.

Nope – Brandon Perea

#FilmUpdatesAwards

Scene Stealer of the Year

Winner: Brandon Perea, ‘NOPE’ pic.twitter.com/6O4k7rNvu1

— Film Updates (@FilmUpdates) January 9, 2023

Brandon Perea started his Hollywood career with his role in the movie “Nope.” Filmmaker Jordan Peele directed this sci-fi thriller that revolves around a UFO discovery by a man and his sister.

Perea’s role as Angel Torres adds authenticity and more depth to the film’s narrative. He is of Filipino and Puerto Rican heritage.

Crazy Rich Asians – Kris Aquino

Let’s not forget… this Princess Intan gown by 👑 Kris Aquino for Crazy Rich Asians is also a Michael Cinco masterpiece. 💛💛💛 pic.twitter.com/hO60oxbLOH

— Daniel B. Bautista (@bautistadanielb) May 23, 2021

A prominent personality on the Philippine entertainment scene, Kris Aquino earned global recognition in the blockbuster movie Crazy Rich Asians. She plays Princess Intan, an influential and glamorous figure among Singapore’s A-listers.

Nocebo – Chai Fornacier

Chai Fonacier on her Visayan accent in ‘Nocebo’

“Diana is Bisaya. She didn’t finish school & was exploited for her otherworldly skill. She did not have the same pop culture influences people her age had. The use of ‘better’ English would have made her character less believable.” pic.twitter.com/G6fASENjaw

— Philippine TV & Film Updates (@phtvandfilmupd) May 26, 2023

Chai Fonacier entertain her audiences with her impressive performance in “Nocebo.” In this thriller, Chai plays Diana, an overseas Filipino worker who uses traditional native healing to help a designer with a mysterious disease in Finland.

Sandman – Lourdes Faberes

A talented Filipino-British actress, Lourdes Faberes marks her place in the industry with her role in the TV series “Sandman.” The series is based on Neil Gaiman’s book.

It brings audiences to a fantastical  navigation of the world of dreams. Her appearance in the TV series shows how versatile Filipino stars are in diverse roles.

The Good Place – Manny Jacinto

The Acolyte adds Manny Jacinto (The Good Place, Nine Perfect Stranger, Top Gun: Maverick)

(Source: @Variety) pic.twitter.com/YmGm9THgdT

— Star Wars Holocron (@sw_holocron) September 15, 2022

Filipino-Chinese actor Manny Jacinto earned recognition for his remarkable acting in film and television. He plays as Jason Mendoza in the NBC hit series “The Good Place.”

His endearing role and comedic acts captivated viewers worldwide. He also appeared in Top Gun: Maverick, further setting his position as a rising actor in the industry.

Pretty Little Liars: Original Sin – Lea Salonga

First look at Lea Salonga, Zakiya Young, Benton Greene, Sharon Leal and Carly Pope as the parents in ‘Pretty Little Liars: Original Sin.’

The show will include flashbacks of the parents back when they were teens in 1999.

(https://t.co/7fwI6GKEXw) pic.twitter.com/02OjpawYCq

— Film Updates (@FilmUpdates) May 14, 2022

Globally-acclaimed actress and singer Lea Salonga has made a major impact on the entertainment scene. She is famous for her theatrical roles and golden voice.

She also appeared in the HBO Max series’ “Pretty Little Liars: Original Sin.” She plays the role of Elodie Honrada, a queer Filipino mom based in the US.

Pitch Perfect 2 – Hailey Steinfield

This young rising star has a Filipino descent on her mom’s side. Well-known for her role in Pitch Perfect, her role as Emily Junk earned her spot in Hollywood.

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As Marie Ross in the movie “True Grit,” she earned an Oscar nomination. She is also the lead actress in the Transformers franchise, Bumblebee.

Lisa Frankenstein – Lisa Soberano

The Filipina actress is one step closer to her Hollywood dream. Lisa completed filming “Lisa Frankenstein” in September last year, and the film’s release is still unannounced.

She was cast with Cole Sprouse (Riverdale), Kathryn Newton (Big Little Lies, The Society), and more. Soberano plays the role of Newton’s step sister, Taffy.

Overall, the rise of Filipino stars in international entertainment presents an important milestone for diversity.

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