OVER a golf game in Subic in June 2023, Parallax Studio owner Wesley Villarica was introduced to Korean filmmaker Park Hye Jun and they extensively talked about filmmaking, mentioned the films they both liked and agreed on a co-production venture.

The Korean producer sent the script to Manila in no time. “We looked at it and we loved it,” Wesley said during a recent media conference. “The rest is history. We’re all here now.”

An exciting collaboration between the Philippines and South Korea is expected to happen in one of this year’s forthcoming film productions.

Favorite Korean stars are now in the Philippines to collaborate with Philippine actors in an action-drama film, The Guardian, expected to be shown in local cinemas within the year, with Jeong Jang Hwan working at the helm.

Vocalist of South Korean idol group Infinite, Nam Woo Hyun, together with Steel Rain and Alchemy actress Park Eun Hye of Jewel in the Palace and Hallyu star Han Jae Seok star in the forthcoming action-thriller, The Guardian.

What is more exciting is that the film will feature local actors who all auditioned for their respective roles.

Seven Filipino actors have been signed up for the Korean-Filipino film project after they all auditioned for their respective roles.

Ashley Ortega, Jeric Raval who is one of the villains, Wilbert Ross plays a semi-antagonist, Eric Ejercito, Joko Diaz, Heart Ryan and Yassi Pressman play interesting characters who will work for the first time with Korean actor.

“In fairness to them, they all auditioned and very professional in trying their luck out in the roles available,” Vincent shared. “They were chosen so I guess they all fit in the roles assigned to them.”

Wesley partnered with local producers to see his film production come to life. Filming was scheduled for 17 days here in the Philippines.

“Last year, we invited the Koreans for a showcase of our virtual production studio after the script was sent,” Wesley disclosed. “End of November, I approached Cel (De Guia) of Ovation Productions and we presented the opportunity of producing part of the K-movie to her.

“Then, I approached Vincent initially for the casting of local actors, then he later became a partner.”

Cel De Guia, who was a veteran of concert productions with both local and foreign artists, initially inquired about the script and storyline and who will be in the cast of The Guardian.

“I saw the opportunity going into film production also, so The Guardian will be another avenue for Ovation,” she said. “We also produced some K-pop acts, so this film is a great opportunity to strengthen ties with the Korean side.

“I told them the project looks promising knowing that it involves Korean stars. You know how Filipinos are very much into K-dramas now. I called Renen (de Guia, her husband) and I told him let’s do it. Hopefully, this is the first of many.”

Cel takes pride that The Guardian will also be released internationally. “The production crew, managers, director and director of photography will work in the movie. Shooting will be done in the Philippines, while post production will be in Korea.

“Even if this is our first venture, we know we are with good hands. We are working with trusted partners. Nakasandal pa rin kami sa pader.”

Viva’s participation initially started with auditioning local actors for the Filipino cast. “Eventually, Wesley convinced us to join the production and participate,” Vincent del Rosario shared.

“We got excited when we found out Cel (De Guia) gave her nod to be part of The Guardian. She agreed to participate in an international production. It was exciting for us. Hopefully, this will also be one of many co-production ventures.”

“The Guardian story is the love between the mother and her son,” explained director Jang Hwan. “I’m trying to synchronize the Korean actors and those from the Philippines showing the love between a family.

“Even though we haven’t started yet, I’m so excited to work with Filipino actors and actresses. The Guardian will be a very good movie.”