Jon Red’s Adarna Gang is a contemporary version of the epic story of Ibong Adarna. The film is described by the notable director as a social commentary about crime, politics, and family issues.
While the story of Ibong Adarna follows three princes who go after a magical bird whose marvelous voice could heal their father, his latest film is set at the present time and carries different plot twists.
“It’s an experimental film. And it had been on my shelves for 15 years. So, when Viva asked me to do it and then they greenlighted the movie, I saw it as an opportunity to reach out to a bigger audience kasi yung kuwento niya may love tapos pwede siyang lagyan ng action,” Red told the press during the film’s virtual media conference.
In the Ibong Adarna epic, the hunt is one aspect of the whole narrative that makes the story exciting, especially with the bird’s cunning escape. Adarna Gang, on the other hand, also involves hunters and prey but the pursuit plot of the modern version is motivated by two things: revenge and thirst for power.
In place of the three princes are three men being honed to become crime syndicate leaders. Instead of a healing bird, there’s a grieving daughter. Now, who is out to get who?
Coleen Garcia plays Adriana, the only daughter of Jose (Soliman Cruz) and Maria (Mickey Ferriols).
Adriana is aware of her father’s involvement in a syndicate, but it’s not being discussed in theirfamily. She’s looking forward to a provincial life that her father has promised, but this dream is shattered when Jose gets killed.
JC Santos plays Juan, one of the three adopted sons of Fernando (Ronnie Lazaro), the syndicate’s big boss, and his wife Valeriana (Sharmaine Buencamino).
Compared to his two brothers, Juan is quite laid back. Knowing that their fathers are friends, he also tries to befriend Adriana.
Diego Loyzaga plays Diego, the youngest in their family. While he’s known for being a veteran as a ladies’ man, he still has a lot to learn in running the syndicate. He follows orders and tries to get things done.
Mark Anthony Fernandez plays Pedro, the eldest son and the most ambitious of all. He will not hesitate to get rid of anyone who he thinks is a threat to the syndicate.
Just like in the centuries-old Philippine folklore, Juan, Diego, and Pedro are sent out to go on a hunt. Whoever captures Adriana first will be greatly rewarded.
Certain that Fernando’s family is behind the death of her father, Adriana vows to eliminate them one by one.
Written and directed by Jon Red, Adarna Gang streams exclusively on Vivamax on March 11.
