Film ‘Take Me to Banaue’ mixes romance, comedy and Filipino American flair
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When love begets love, everything would flourish but what if it comes with a price and seeks justification? This Filipino American film is set to sweep you off your feet.
“Take Me to Banaue” will transcend love and its boundaries as it reinvents the romantic comedy genre. The film also gears up for its worldwide release on Feb. 12, 2024 — in perfect timing with Hearts Day.
Promising a blend of talent and charm, the film was cast by American actor Brandon Melo and Filipina German model and Miss Universe Philippines 2021 1st runner-up Maureen Wroblewitz. The latter must be familiar if you’re a Juan Karlos’ fan (yes, she’s the ex that many assume was the source of his heart-wrenching songs.)
“Take Me to Banaue” penned by Jason Rogers and Fil-Am producer and director Danny Aguilar, tells the story of Hank, an American engineer who’s on his quest for love.
His adventure as he travels to the Philippines is filled with heartwarming moments and unexpected and harsh truths leading him to the stunning landscapes of Banaue — all for his love for Grace who has other personal intentions, played by Wroblewitz.
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A Filipino American film infusing Filipino and Hollywood talents
Filipino American director from Dallas, Texas Danny Aguilar brings this rom-com narrative to life. Teaming up with Philippines’ local artists and Hollywood’s finest, his production Carpe Diem Pictures turns a simple plot into a compelling narrative.
The impressive selection of talents – Thea Tolentino, known for her role in “The Half Sisters,” Dylan Rogers from Chicago and top 10 semifinalist in Miss Universe 2014 MJ Lastimosa – elevates the film’s charm.
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Filipino comedy actor Norman Balbuena and Archi Adamos are also part of “Take Me to Banaue’s” portfolio boasting a powerhouse of performers.
Beyond the renowned beaches of the Philippines, the picturesque facades of Baguio City and Banaue, Ifugao all the way to Dallas, Texas were the locations of the film.
Aguilar made sure to capture the beauty of the northern part of the country. “The country is a magnet for tourists and those who desire to look for lifetime partners. Because of this, I always thought about a romantic story with cross-cultural flair while showcasing the beauty of the Philippines and its culture,” reflects Aguilar.
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Accompanying the scenic shots is the core of “Take Me to Banaue” — delving into justification. The characters – Hank, the hopeless romantic; Grace, the object of his affection; Jinky, a businesswoman with a different outlook on cultural superiority and Jordan, Hank’s cool intelligent best friend – all go through the raging waters of justifying their life choices.
“This script was conceptualized and developed taking into account that something personal is also universal,” adds Aguilar.
Curious to find out “what’s Grace got to do with it?” This Filipino American film will grace the worldwide stage on Feb. 12, 2024, and will be available for streaming at www.takemetobanauefilm.com.
