Director Benedict Mique, still enjoying the success of his Netflix film Lolo and the Kid, is optimistic that his latest project, Maple Leaf Dreams, will make a significant impact. This film is just one of several projects he has lined up for the year, and he believes its powerful story will resonate with audiences.
In an interview with Manila Standard Entertainment, Mique described Maple Leaf Dreams as a “love letter” to Filipinos who have moved abroad in search of better opportunities. The film is more than just a love story as it explores the struggles of uprooting one’s life and adjusting to a new culture.
“It’s an immigrant story first before it’s a love story. It’s a story about dreams, family, and friendship. Our actors represent a large sector of the community, and that’s what makes this movie special,” Mique said. He emphasized the cast’s commitment, noting that they immersed themselves in the lives of blue-collar workers to authentically portray their roles.
“You’d be amazed at the lengths they went to—they worked in a canteen, a grocery store, a junk shop, and even used public transportation for a week to fully embody their roles,” he added.
Eighty percent of the film was completed in Toronto, where the cast and crew spent 15 days filming. The remaining 20 percent was shot in Manila according to Mique who also expressed pride in showcasing locations like Niagara Falls and Toronto Island Park despite the challenges of filming in Toronto.
“We didn’t shoot for more than 12 hours a day. Toronto is very expensive, and you have to admire the Filipinos working there because they’re fighting to survive,” he said. “Even other nationalities struggle to make it. They gamble everything to stay in Canada. Every OFW story deserves to be told.”
Maple Leaf Dreams stars Kira Balinger and LA Santos, who are headlining a film together for the first time. Kira plays Molly, a young woman determined to lift her family out of hardship, while LA portrays Macky, a restaurant manager in the Philippines seeking a more stable and fulfilling career.
The film also features veteran actors Snooky Serna, Ricky Davao, and Joey Marquez.
Maple Leaf Dreams is produced by 7K Entertainment, Lonewolf Films, and Star Magic, and is distributed by Quantum Films.
Mique, known for his emotional storytelling, spent months in Canada connecting with the Filipino community, interviewing locals, and observing their lives to capture the authentic experiences of Filipinos living abroad.
Maple Leaf Dreams is a finalist at the Sinag Maynila Film Festival, running from Sept. 4 to 8, 2024. The film is set for wide theatrical release on Sept. 25.
