Lockdown realities in romance film ‘Dito at Doon’
Exactly a year since the pandemic changed everyone’s lives, TBA Studios, in association with WASD Films, is releasing today its newest full-length feature “Dito at Doon.” It is the first local film to simultaneously stream on five major online platforms (KTX, Cinema76@Home, Iwant TFC, Upstream, and Ticket2me). Ticket price is at P350.
Set during the pandemic, this relatable Janine Gutierrez-JC Santos romance movie was supposed to arrive in theaters March 17.
After much deliberation, a thoughtful decision was arrived at by the producers, taking into consideration everyone’s health and safety.
“We feel this is the best possible way to make sure everyone’s ‘Dito at ‘Doon’ movie experience is a safe and enjoyable one,” said E. A Rocha, TBA Studio’s CCO and one of the executive producers of “Dito at Doon.”
Set during the current pandemic, “Dito at Doon” revolves around political science graduate Len (Janine Gutierrez) and her online/offline frenemy Caloy (JC Santos). Len works from home, and is someone who fights for things she loves and believes in. Caloy is a frontliner and has a perspective that’s different from Len’s. With their polarizing views and challenges of not being physically together, will their relationship survive?
Directed by JP Habac of “I’m Drunk, I Love You” fame, “Dito at Doon” also features host and stand-up comedian Victor Anastacio (also playing someone deprived of the physical presence of a loved one) and theatre actress Yesh Burce, with the special participation of Janine’s real-life mom Lotlot de Leon.
The film was developed, shot and completed during the pandemic, which continues until now, with March being its anniversary month. It incorporates such lockdown realities as e-numan, video calls, DIY learnings, being a plant parent, while reflecting on the possibility that the “new normal” could be poised to stick around longer.
“We know how much it means for movie fans to finally share a moviegoing experience together, whether at home or wherever they choose to see it with friends and family. We’re proud to bring this timely yet timeless, heartwarming film to all,” Rocha added.
During a recent bloggers’ conference, JC Santos said he was grateful to TBA Studios for providing income opportunities for those in the entertainment industry especially in these uncertain times.
“Hindi mo alam ang mangyayari bukas at kung makakatrabaho ka pa Ito [‘Dito at Doon’] isa siya sa pinakamalapit na nangyari sa akin,” the actor said.
Janine, an Urian and Famas Best Actress Janine Gutierrez, finds “Dito at Doon” one of the most authentic films she has worked on. “Makatotohanan siya. Hindi niya isinasantabi itong mga pinagdadaanan natin nitong ECQ, GCQ; instead sinubukan niyang i-mirror ‘yun.”
Netizens have been supportive of the film since it released its trailer on March 4.
Film aficionados outside the Philippines will also have the chance to see “Dito at Doon” (“Here and There”) as TBA Studios prepares a worldwide release via premium video on demand (PVOD) which will be announced very soon.
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