HOOQ, the largest Video-on-Demand service in Southeast Asia, has announced its first foray into Filipino originals with Ulan, a romantic drama starring this generation biggest and brightest stars in Filipino cinema—Nadine Lustre and Carlo Aquino.
Ulan is HOOQ’s first Original Movie from the Philippines, in partnership with one of the country’s most renowned and respected production companies, Viva Films.
Speaking about the film, started playing in all major cinemas nationwide yesterday, March 13, Jennifer Batty, Chief Content Officer of HOOQ said, “This is a significant milestone for HOOQ and HOOQ Originals. We are continuing with our promise to bring the very best content from the most promising and talented actors, scriptwriters and directors in the Philippines and across Southeast Asia.”
“Ulan is already one of the most highly anticipated titles of the year and the first of many more HOOQ Original Movies to come. To partner with Viva on our first HOOQ Original film is super exciting. Viva is a powerhouse here and we look forward to doing more with them in the future,” Batty added.
Nadine Lustre, one of the country’s most promising actors, takes on a more challenging role as she embarks on a unique and mysterious tale of love. She plays Maya, a woman fascinated with rain and has the ability to see and interact with mythical (half-horse, half-human-like) creatures called “tikbalang.”
The part of Maya in Ulan marks a breakout for Nadine as she pairs with Carlo Aquino showcasing her depth and versatility as a leading lady. Carlo, on the other hand, plays Peter, a volunteer for a non-government organization and Maya’s love interest wants to unearth the mysteries behind Maya’s fascination with rain.
Sheila Paul, Country Manager of HOOQ Philippines, said, “The Philippines has an abundance of talented filmmakers that are really pushing the boundaries of the medium—in terms of storytelling, format, and style. We see great promise in the market and will continue to invest in original content in the Philippines and across Southeast Asia.”
She said further, “Not only do we want to support local content creators, we also want to encourage them to challenge conventions and develop engaging, high-quality Filipino content that we can all be proud of.”
Ulan is the fourth feature film from highly regarded Filipino director, Irene Villamor, who continues to make waves in the local film industry with her unique style. Irene’s vision of an unconventional love story with a supernatural twist has all the makings of a future classic.
Irene is the same filmmaker behind Sid & Aya, Camp Sawi, and Meet at St. Gallen.
HOOQ’s extensive library of Filipino movies and shows include Irene’s complete catalogue of films as well as Nadine’s hits Never Not Love You, This Time, Diary Ng Panget, and On the Wings of Love, and blockbusters Sisterakas, and Beauty and the Bestie.
Customers can simply download the HOOQ app from Apple Store or Google Play, sign up or log in, to access HOOQ’s extensive library of Hollywood and Asian hits.
Smart users can enjoy a 30-day free trial. Globe mobile users can enjoy a 45-day free trial, and Globe broadband users can enjoy six months of free trial.
Find out more and sign up today for a complimentary trial at www.hooq.tv.