Viva Films to distribute Medyo Maldito's rom-com
Since the film’s announcement in July, the people behind “#MTK” have taken it upon themselves to uphold Bisaya artistry. Taking the full-blown Bisaya flick to the national stage, the romantic comedy will be distributed by entertainment giant Viva Films as
In early September of this year, about a couple of months since the announcement, the meaning behind the consonants in the title “#MTK” was revealed—and the film starring online personality Rowell Ucat popularly known as Medyo Maldito and Cebuana singer Akiko Solon was since referred to as “Magbuwag Ta Kay.”
It was because of the buzz the title reveal created that Viva South Operations Vice President Verb Del Rosario got wind of the film as he was scrolling through his social media feed.
“Nakita ko si Jude Gitamondoc, who co-wrote the film, post siya nang post. Ano ba tong ‘#MTK’ na ‘to?” del Rosario began during a press conference Tuesday at Gerry’s Grill of SM City Cebu.
When del Rosario found out that it was a Bisaya film, he immediately contacted executive producer Sunshine Lim.
“The goal was always to create an entertainment industry for the VisayasMindanao area. Why does everyone have to adhere to the taste of the Tagalog? Dito, iba ang culture, iba ang humor, iba lahat,” the new generation del Rosario, who hails from Luzon himself and had moved to Cebu early this year, quips.
He adds that with the millions of people in the Bisaya community, it was about time they were offered content that was ultimately theirs.
“Maganda siya [#MTK], and it furthers our cause of helping the Bisaya industry,” del Rosario further says.
For producers Sunshine and Charles Lim (the couple behind Heritage Productions), it began with their first short film, “Lunchbox,” which did well in the annual Sinulog Short Film Festival. Getting a taste of film production and enjoying every minute of it, the Lims then followed it up with the Cinema One Originals entry, “Lily,” that starred Shaina Magdayao.
Sunshine Lim, a thespian turned businesswoman, had always wanted to continue her love for the arts, especially in Cebu, and is grateful to have the support of Viva Films.
“We are proud to say that we have made history, being able to show an independent Bisaya film nationwide. This is the first time and we are grateful for the opportunity to be part of the lineup and get a commercial release nationwide,” she shares.
Mrs. Lim adds that it was a divine plan that allowed her to continue to pursue her calling of making a difference in her own little ways – through films
– as a creative reminder especially for millennials.
Written by poet and singersongwriter Therese Marie Villarante alongside producer and songwriter Jude Gitamondoc, and directed by Janice Perez and RJ Aquino—“Magbuwag Ta Kay” is said to be the untold story of Medyo Maldito, offering insight beyond Rowell’s Hugot King persona.
“Magbuwag Ta Kay” is about college sweethearts Kay and Roy, whose relationship encounters a challenge because of Kay’s looming trip to Canada. The two decide to break up, giving themselves 30 days to cut ties without the drama.
Despite being a romantic comedy, “Magbuwag Ta Kay” also promises to be a film full of values on love, family and goals.
Also starring Dante Luzon, Ligaya Rabago, Rio Delizo, Snake Princess, Alem Garcia, Samantha Midel, Denise Tan and Shawna Irizari, among many other Bisaya talents, “Magbuwag Ta Kay” was shot across Cebu’s scenic milieus.
“Magbuwag Ta Kay” will hold a special advance screening on November 30 at Cinema 8 of SM City Cebu, a few months before its official commercial run on January 2018.