Wait! What? HOOQ Philippines launched an original film? WOW! When I saw the trailer of this ULAN film, I really got curious about it as it shows a particular mythical creature which is very popular in the Philippine folklore- The Tikbalang. I was curious to know how it will be related to the main character’s life and love story.
So just recently, I was invited by HOOQ Philippines to their exclusive media block screening of Ulan and was able to watch the whole film on a very comfortable cinema recliner seat(Oh! I love Director’s club!) And since it was the day when Ulan started showing commercially in cinemas, actress Nadine Lustre came over to selected cinemas in the metro to personally express appreciation to movie goers watching the film.
Ulan is a romantic drama starring this generation’s biggest and brightest stars in Filipino cinema – Nadine Lustre and Carlo Aquino. This film was produced by HOOQ as its first Original Movie from the Philippines in partnership with one of the country’s most renowned production companies, Viva Films. This is also in celebration of HOOQ Philippines’ 4th anniversary in the country.
Nadine Lustre, one of the country’s most promising actors, takes on a more challenging role as she embarks on a unique and mysterious tale of love. She plays Maya, a woman fascinated with rain and has the ability to see and interact with mythical (half-horse, half-human-like) creatures called “tikbalang”. The part of Maya in Ulan marks a breakout for Lustre as she pairs with Carlo Aquino—showcasing her depth and versatility as a leading lady. Aquino, on the other hand, plays Peter, a volunteer for a non-government organization and Maya’s love interest, wants to unearth the mysteries behind Maya’s fascination with rain- alongside co-stars Marco Gumabao and AJ Muhlach.
Ulan is the fourth feature film from highly regarded Filipino Director, Irene Villamor, who continues to make waves in the local film industry with her unique style. Irene’s vision of an unconventional love story with a supernatural twist has all the makings of a future classic. She also directed Sid & Aya, Camp Sawi, and Meet Me in St. Gallen.
Speaking about the upcoming HOOQ Original Movie, Jennifer Batty, Chief Content Officer of HOOQ, said, “This is a significant milestone for HOOQ and HOOQ Originals. We are continiuing with our promise to bring the very best content from the most promising and talented actors, scriptwriters and directors in the Philippines and across Southeast Asia. Ulan is already one of the most highly anticipated titles of the year, and the first of many more HOOQ Original Movies to come. To partner with Viva on our 1st HOOQ OriginaI film is super exciting. Viva is a power house here and we look forward to doing more with them in the future. ”
HOOQ’s extensive library of Filipino movies and shows include a complete catalogue of films as well as Nadine Lustre’s hits; Never Not Love You, This Time, Diary Ng Panget, On The Wings of Love, Sisterakas and Beauty and the Bestie.
“The Philippines has an abundance of talented filmmakers that are really pushing the boundaries of the medium – in terms of storytelling, format and style. We see great promise in the market, and will continue to invest in original content in the Philippines and across Southeast Asia. Not only do we want to support local content creators, we want to encourage them to challenge conventions and develop engaging, high-quality Filipino content that we can all be proud of.”-Sheila Paul, Country Manager of HOOQ Philippines.
Ulan is NOW SHOWING in all major cinemas nationwide!
HOW TO GET HOOQ!
Customers can simply download the HOOQ app from Apple Store or Google Play, sign up or log in, to access HOOQ’s extensive library of Hollywood and Asian hits.
Smart users can enjoy a 30-day free trial. Globe mobile users can enjoy a 45-day free trial and Globe broadband users on the other hand can enjoy six months free trial.
For more information, visit www.hooq.tv.
