Beyond Films: 0KGämës Taps Communities via BOYFRIEND EXPRESS

The pandemic had us watch all kind of content including the concept of Boys Love or BL. When Oxin Films delved into it a little later in those years, it became a phenomenon where it built communities that adore the trials of love, the colorful ways of friendships, discovery and the redeeming feeling of being accepted all enveloped in this fun collaboration between 0KGämës and Oxin Films.Content like these spark debate, deep discussions and also meaningful connections with like minded people who enjoy them. 

They always delve into these kind of material and 0KGämës knows how important it is to have something beyond experience, a call that they've been doing in previous years. 

Boyfriend Express stars Iñaki Torres and Andrei De Guzman who plays Brix and Harry. Other stars include Daniel Marshall and Art Guma (of PBB fame). They also have internet celebs lime Angelica Gegante and Thea Abanico, and a few more colorful characters. They've managed to tell stories of love, quirky relationships, which makes it more interesting for fans across the globe (very popular on YouTube). 0KGämës knows how this is important for people, so they designed interactive ways to make digital experiences more fun, especially the Boyfriend Express community who they've always had in mind. Things like these are evolving and they've really adapted well by being part of it. Each scene is well thought of, not as an accessory, but made to make sure partnership between them will be more meaningful. This is their thrust to make sure the entertainment they provide benefits those who are invested in the story. That's beyond what is expected of them. 

Are you excited to watch something like this?! 

Nico Nicolas and Tin Hammond Tries Romance on Wheel of Love presents "Weekend to Remember"

It was a really fun evening to talk to the cast and production of the upcoming romcom flick Wheel of Love presents "Weekend to Remember". This new show was made and created by the almost the same people behind the hit BL series "My Extraordinary" which garnered a couple million views a few months ago under Asterisk Entertainment. The series will also be shown on the Asterisk Entertainment YouTube Channel starting this Sunday (today!) at 7PM. 

Truth be told, some of the cast members also appeared in the previous show and we got the preview the pilot episode (which you will get to watch today). The show also has no specific lead stars, but more of an ensemble cast which would be quite good since they can cover a lot of things during storytelling. Wheel of Love presents "Weekend to Remember" will be composed of several love stories that talks about young love, hetero and gay relationships. In a nutshell, it's about a family where the Asuncion brothers will be involved in different connections that might all blow up during a special occasion done during the weekend, hence the title.

I got to ask a few questions during the livestreamed media conference yesterday and talked to Nico Nicolas and Kristine Hammond who will be doing the hetero type of romance in the story. They're pretty good friends in real life since they're both under Asterisk artist management and these roles would pretty much entail them to become even closer because they'll be falling in love in one way or form. For the two, doing the role of Miguel Asuncion and Jane Del Pilar was comfortable and felt like they were not working at all because the people around them was so much fun to work with. It took off the stress and craziness of doing the shoot during a pandemic and they felt quite taken cared of by the production.

Nico told us "I am really a very shy person, I'm not the type who would tell a partner about my feelings but more of just show it through actions. I don't usually say I love you, or I like you, I just do it if I can. When I met Tin for the first time, it was in an events place in Filinvest. She's very beautiful, her eyes are very attractive and so I didn't have a hard time showing how our characters would fall in love in this series. She's also very kind."

Kristine says "Before we even started shooting, in our short workshops we would often ask what we like about each other. I think we really started connecting from there, I'm really happy that he said that. He's a guy that you can talk to quite easily and quite down to earth. When I arrived in Asterisk, I wasn't able to talk to him as we had different projects and never had time to be together in a project. I already knew who he was because friends were talking about him, and I've grown quite fond of him during the whole filming. Yes, he is indeed boyfriend material."

I can't wait to see how their story will unfold as I think that will be done in future episodes.

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A post shared by Tin Hammond (@tinhammond22)

The first episode that will be shown today will be touching on a pairing we've seen in the previous series "My Extraordinary". One of the BL stories will be done by Keijee Mesina and John Cortez. Their previous Isaw romance took a turn and became a little more about a boss and a kasambahay/assistant who's become secretly inlove with him. I bet, you'll love how these two will have their love story starts in the first episode entitled Arina Grande. Their funny antics and life like reactions to love like getting giddy, the banter between Keijee and the other help in the house would make this a good continuation of their previous love story. The two are fine actors and you'll be amazed how it'll become something that would span across pronouns or orientation, it will affect you because love is love. It's a hugely successful pairing and I hope there will be something more even after that. I really hope so.

 

Again, this series stars Nico Nicolas, Sam Cafranca, John Cortez, Hannah Balahadia and Enzo Santiago. They also are with Kristine Hammond, Orly Mejia, Sean Guyamin, Philip Dulla, Ayumi Takezawa, Daryll Rodriguez, Louie Caminade, Tysh Basa, Carl Williams and Keijee Mesina. They are also introducing the good looking Yam Mercado who will be playing an anti hero in this flick.

The series is written by Jaymar Castro and Jaja Amarillo. This is Directed by Jolo Atienza. Their original song "In love ako, In love sayo" sung by Camille Rose  Tarrosa is already out on streaming sites and apps so do that while watching the show. Again, make sure you're tuned in 7pm at the AsterisK Entertainment Youtube Channel in the next 8 weeks. 

It'll be shown every Sunday so go fall in love with them like I do!

You Can Choose Your BL Star in "Pa-mine Pare"

This is interesting. An upcoming BL Movie is about to unfold but first things first, they have to pick who will star in this film. Your choices are Gian Wang, Ali Abinal, Eian Rances, Tan Roncal and Shoichi Oka. Boys Love is definitely something that kept audiences in the country sane during the pandemic and now YOU have the choice of who you would like to see in this project called Pa-mine Pare. Now seriously, who would you choose?

Ali Abinal

Eian Rances

Gian Wang

Shoichi Oka

Tan Roncal

 The plot was explained to us earlier. They will be straight rough guys who will suddenly find themselves feeling something romantic with their partner. I asked them some really uncomfortable questions, to hopefully see how they would handle the role if they get picked in this competition. They're very competitive!

 

Up until February 25, you can choose who will be the lead stars of this film. Vote via KUMU when they stream or KTX.PH because you have the power to see who will be part of the cast, which hopefully will include your favorite stars so you can stream them soon.

They're all good looking, and I can't wait to see who will be on the title role for this project!

What's Sexy About Royce Cabrera?

Why do people fall in love with a guy like Royce Cabrera? Is it because he's got a body of a demigod? Is it his demeanor? What is his ideal woman? Well we asked that and more during this interview as he just recently signed with GMA Artist Center. They're now taking good care of him now as he becomes one of the most sought after actors in the country. He's pretty confident and trusts their judgement on where to actually put him in this industry and during our small talk with the FBois and Quaranthings star, he told us a lot of interesting things that you may not know of with the hunky Filo boy.

 

Royce says "I have been in the industry for quite a while and there are a lot of offers from other companies but we talked about it, but I felt something, a gut feeling of what I needed to do, and I was right, judging from the things I have been getting, GMA has given me the opportunities where I could grow as an artist. I grabbed the chance when they came, I will return the favor. FBois was really a huge gamble, I did it because I wanted to take a risk. Wether I win or lose, I tried it out in Cinemalaya and I think I made the right choice. I do hope I get to do other roles, I don't want to be boxed up as an actor. If I were to be a leading man, why not, it is a huge opportunity for me."

He adds "I told GMA what I wanted and they I trust them about the path they want me to take. I am an actor foremost and I will do the job when it comes. I want to work with Marian Rivera or Sanya Lopez, I think we will be good on screen. Right now, I do have projects lined up and we are not privy to divulge yet."

So there we go, we've got lots of things to look forward to now that he is connected with GMA Artist Center. I could see how happy he was about what is happening in his career, so make sure you also follow him on his social channels so you get updates about his shows.

Congrats Royce!

An Afternoon with Actors from #InfluencersTheSeries

We were welcomed by the cast and actors of #InfluencersTheSeries this afternoon which includes Los Angeles California based Kevin Martinez, Benjo Jose, Kevin Alejandro, Em Meneses, Maz Esquivel, Romeo Malijan, Leon Eustaquio, Chollo Sotiangco, their Scriptwriter and Directors Stephanie Quiros and Renz-Bhil Tugelida.

Lead star Leon Eustaquio says "I can assure you, there will be social issues discussed in the series, but not to spoil things we can't talk about that yet. We were messaged by our manager, I was hesitant really, but I was challenged because I love acting, it was just hard to move around because we were limited because of the pandemic. When it comes to forcing influencers to talk on certain issues, they should beg off if they don't know much about it. If they don't want to, let's understand and respect them if they don't want to talk about it."

Director Renz says "What sets this apart from other BL series is that we are going to talk about something that is not talked about. We are doing socio political matters that needs to be heard now. It's not just hearing the different side, but to see how influencers react to these issues. When we started it, we needed to talk about mental health, HIV, cancel culture, bottom shaming, name it all, but in the context of BL. It exciting, actually hard to put together. You need to watch the first episode because it needs to be seen so you can understand it all. We want to speak our truth, we want to talk about the digital spectrum, on how to me a responsible netizen. We open apps, we follow influencers because of what they talk about. We need the truth and reality of our LGBT community, BL is evolving, it has changed and it is good that it can put statements, to say something, we are one with them to give voice. Actually, when you watch the first episode, you will put in your mind that the characters will liken people in real life. It just a coincidence. When we started the production, we were very adamant about pushing our causes. We did our GL series in the past, and we use projects to do that and have representation. We are going to produce these kind of projects so people know what we go through, to tell our truth and predicaments. Back when we did Chasing Sunsets we have had bisexuals, gays, and casting this, we were very critical because they need to understand the role. Given that we are almost finished shooting, I am glad at how they are doing their roles. They are aware of it."

 

Chollo Sotiangco says "I got this role with the thinking that I'm going to be doing something new. To represent a community, to put myself in their shoes, I wanted to learn about their cause. I enrolled this sem but when I was asked to do acting jobs in a BL series, I took it. When I got this, I knew it was going to be hard to shoot, to go somewhere especially since we are in a pandemic. Fortunately, we followed safety protocols before the shoot and working with them, it was a great experience! I believe people are different, they have different opinions, they have their ways and they have the option to speak about it or not, they have their choice, it's not just because they are influencers they have to talk about certain issues. It's a dangerous thing to put wrong information out there, we all have to be careful, and stick on things that they are knowledgable about and be educated too."

Em Meneses says "On influencers having scandals, first of all, everyone makes mistakes. It's really hard on us all, I am all for expressing their sexuality, but sharing photos and videos without their consent is a crime, they need to be protected especially now when it goes on the internet. It is scary, so data privacy and protection should be done. It's a different story how it goes in media, I hope compassion still is tops. I am sure we were all nervous, I came from a more theater background, totally different from this and we all had to do workshops because we had different approach. It was interesting when we met on set together, I am so happy they figured out our dynamic because we had different backgrounds. We do hear each other out, especially our angles, our motivations and character analysis. We share each others experiences which brings to life more of our characters."

Maz Ezquivel added "I came from TV so it is more on the face, very minmal movement, and we would debate about it all the time... but the good thing about it is that we get to learn from each other, we also share it with the cast and we help each other out."


This project is produced by Camp Avenue Studios and is directed by Renz-Bhil Tugelida. This is written by Stephanie-Rose Quiros and will be shown on Ticketnet platforms. Contact them and follow their social media accounts to know more about their story. I think it is apt to talk about pressing social issues especially if it's about timely ones like LGBTQIA, the SOIGIE Equality Bill, and others. Their cause is quite good, it needs to be heard, it needs to be seen. Their trailer is also going to be launched at 8PM today, I got you so here!

Kokoy De Santos Chooses Who To Love in OH MANDO!

We spent this evening talking to the Director and actors of the upcoming series OH MANDO! which stars current King of BL Kokoy De Santos and hot guy Alex Diaz and lovely Barbie Imperial. This series will be shown tomorrow on the iWantTFC platform and if you haven't downloaded that yet, please do so you can watch this series which was shot before the lockdown happened in Manila.

During the blogcon, Barbie was asked about the challenges she had to go through during the pandemic and she says "The most challenging part was being away from my family and what's important is that I am keeping my job so I can earn for my family too. Until now I have family in Albay and Catanduanes, I am afraid of knowing what happened to them. It's different now, I don't think I would be able to go back home for Christmas because of the way things are. I don't even know if permits are needed, I'm a bit happy now though because my Mom and my brother are here with me." awww that's nice to know.

Barbie was also asked about what she has learned doing this role and if she had to choose a person to love in real life... and she says "For me, I don't mind if you're straight or not, as long as they respect me, I'm a bit bakla in real life and people don't know that. I am very open, I grew up in the streets, as long as I'm not being looked down upon I am okay. As long as that person likes you, love has no gender."

Alex was asked about what he learned from his character and he says "Oh Mando means love is love is love. It has brought us to a place where we always think about what other people would say, and for me, I have gotten to a point where I don't care anymore as long as I'm not stepping on anybody's toes, I'm fine. We just have to make sure we love as much as we can."

 Kokoy says "I know love has no gender, romantic or not, you can't stop that because we all are human. Don't stop yourself from doing that. I have always wished for projects like these, something that has a twist, a romcom, so I did try out for it. This is so satisfying to do as an actor, to work with them all, I am so thankful for that. This is a family related series, my decisions also have them in mind so I would never do something that wouldn't benefit them."

Here's what happened during the blogcon, so make sure you do download the iWant TFC app and get your subscription going. This would be so nice to watch starting tomorrow!

JOAO and JAMESON for My Lockdown Romance

Today (this afternoon) we got to talk to Jameson Blake and Joao Constancia as they are doing a movie called My Lockdown Romance, a full blown Filipino BL film under Star Cinema. 

Finding the right fit for the roles was gone through auditions, referrals, and the kind of characters are not well accepted by artists. When Jameson and Joao auditioned for it they were happy to take on the challenge. It is refreshing to see something lighthearted and hopeful, this will revitalize your gusto to live. 

Direk Bobby says “It wouldn’t be easy, but we do have something different to offer. We took care of the format, it is connected to real life situations. From all walks of life. The actors had same cameras and we guided them through web conference. It is nice and cleanly made.”

Gab Pangilinan says “I am human, I do have moments when I had to be marupok. It happens to everyone. Gabb is not just a supportive friend, she tells it what it is, very straight to the point and it is an exciting character. I could say, she’s gonna say what Jameson’s character wouldn’t say. It is light, fun and happy.”

Jameson says “We were used to love teams and that kind of thing is the same, it was something new and I had so much fun experiencing it. I agree it was somewhat similar, I was always the one who had to make girls pakilig and being on the receiving end, that part was different. It’s been a while when I had a girlfriend, I’ll let you guys know if I already have one. I am happy that fans are happy to see me in a coming of age film and this is something similar so I am excited for them. This BL movie is lighter, they will see that. I don’t feel much pressure, but I’m hopeful for the outcome. I am more of the submissive character, I do have some traits similar to that, a more lighter personality.“

Joao says “I was super happy to work with him because we knew each other. We know what the stories about and what we were happy is that Direk Bobby was there to help us throughout. I am grateful it is a new experience for me and a new movie, so I’m just happy to just be here. To be honest there is no difference in pakiligs, love is love and the way you do it is the same. It was easy for both of us. I have had these moments, pero when I date, just sweetness, every wall falls down. I have read tweets, I am happy with what I’m reading. This is light, fun and super relatable. The setting is what is happening right now. We are more excited because everyone would be able to watch now at the comforts of their own home. You have to see the end scene, watch the whole film and you will understand what we are saying. I auditioned for this and my family were excited for me. I have had bromances, Jameson and I have had that, we care about each other and that’s what closest friends do.“

Currently, they don’t want to reveal if there is a kissing scene, maybe they’re really keeping that in the wraps. Their chemistry is undeniable, they look good together and perhaps, you’ll feel good seeing them on screen. This will be shown on November 13 at CineXpress channels at KTX.ph, iWantTFC (tfc.tv), IPTV, Cignal PPV and Sky Cable PPV.

You've got to see this!

The Boy Foretold By The Stars

Do you believe in fate? Do you believe in soulmates? Do you believe that somewhere out there, there is someone intended to love you? In some ways, I do.

Those questions are pretty hard to answer. However, I've had the privilege of talking to some really smart people who are trying to tell you a story. It's called "The Boy Foretold By The Stars". This is a Filipino BL film starring Adrian Lindayag and Keann Johnson. We also got to talk to the director of this film Direk Dolly Dulu. 

This is quite interesting as it is set in an all boys Catholic school. That alone is quite crazy as a venue for an LGBT themed story (for some), but obviously it happens. One is a straight guy and the other an effeminate boy.

Adrian Lindayag plays Dominic, an honor student, achiever, straight A's and doesn't believe in fate or stars.

He told us about how he got into the film and says "I was invited by a friend who told me his friend wrote a script and told me to audition. I was taping Kadenang Ginto and I asked for permission. Good thing we filmed quite near in ABS CBN. I knew when I read the script that I was Dominic. I worked with Keann already and it was easier because of that. Yes there will be kissing scenes, people should note how good Keann is and I trusted him. I really was feeling kilig when he looks at me. I believe he's a nice person, he listens to me when I have issues, I can be myself when I am with him."

Keann Johnson plays Luke, a jock, sports man, and does everything by flipping a coin. He says "I got this role back then when I was celebrating things with fans. When I learned about it, I knew it was a different role and push my limits. It takes two to tango and I feel if it wasn't him it would feel different. I feel really kilig when he gives me things, no awkwardness whatsoever. It's 2020 and people are very understanding, if I'm going to introduce him to my parents I will be bold to do it. I feel he would always ask about his future soulmate, not just career, he's more into finding love. Honestly, the guy is very open to men or women, maybe a pansexual, I learned no one could tell you who to love, but with all your heart."

Direk Dolly Dulu says "I was waiting for the festival to start but it took too long for Cinefilipino to do screenings. I was a little down because we finished this ahead of time, even ahead of the BL wave in the country, but it just wasn't being shown. Jodi asked me about it and then CineFilipino finally decided that they would do things next year, the material was getting old but now that people are craving for it, we knew we had to do it now. This film was written in 2016 and I'm glad a lot of people trusted us, I am so thankful for that. I took it from personal experience, from a one act play of which I was trying to get over someone, I just changed names. It was formed way before the movie, I had to do it in a higschool setting. The casting was really for Dominic as it required a feminine guy doing it. It was hard to get actors who would just do it, I got a legitimate one. Getting Keann on the other hand was a no brainer because we had to get someone who looks good and was willing to do it. I had to do auditions for his role and had to make sure they jive when they are together."

To give you an even better understanding on why I'm so glad I did this interview, here's what happened during the blog conference, enjoy!

Adrian was a ball of energy, very nice and easy to talk to. He's very articulate, snaps humor into conversation and hella fun. Keann (aside from being extremely good looking) was cerebral, takes nibbles to understand questions thrown at him and gives really smart answers. Even if this was the first time I talked with them, I felt I was amongst friends, which is why I enjoyed this blog conference. I haven't felt that way in a while. I have seen the trailer, and these two are very effective, I'd mistake it is real... which is why I am so excited to watch this on theaters soon (or virtually)!

The Boy Foretold By The Stars is produced by teleserye queen Jodi Sta. Maria under Clever Minds Inc., The Dolly Collection and Brainstormers Lab. 

Coming soon!

GAMEBOYS' Elijah Canlas: In the shoes of Cai Lazaro

Elijah taking a dip.

(Photo credits: Photo is from Elijah Canlas' IG post, not mine)

Kokoy De Santos and Elijah Canlas have done several films already and this digital Filipino BL (boys love) series have made everyone stick to their phones, tablets and PC's over several months, obsessed with the show called GAMEBOYS. 

It's timely, current, and discusses tons of issues so people have been able to relate to it. Aside from that, their story continues to blossom, putting spins to run of the mill hetero kind of relationships and opens a whole world of possibilities on LOVE. It doesn't go without hitches of course because along the way, friends, exes, comebacks, always had to ruin things for them. Fret not, as they will keep you at the edge of your seats and give you more reasons to see if CaiReel (Cairo and Gavreel) will eventually end up together. We all want that to happen.

I have already asked Kokoy De Santos about the show and this time, we're asking Elijah Canlas about his embodiment of Cairo Lazaro. He is the gamer who fell in the hands of Gavreel played by Kokoy De Santos. Will he get charmed and tell the truth about his feelings? Or will he be holding back and suffer in the end? 

I had the chance to interview you for your film Kalel,15, a very daring role. How did you get picked for Gameboys?

I don’t really know why Direk Jun and Perci picked me exactly but I’ve been blessed enough to be a part of The IdeaFirst family ever since late-2018. I’m also grateful for the trust the whole team has given me.

Have you worked with Kokoy before? How is he as a person?

Yup. I’ve worked with Kokoy before for Petersen Vargas’ Some Nights I Feel Like Walking. He’s definitely fun to be around with. He’s not far off from Gavreel’s personality also but I’d say he’s much more than that.

Who is Cairo for you?

Cairo is definitely one of the hardest roles I’ve had to portray. Me and Cairo have a love and hate relationship. But I’ve grown to love and appreciate him more now. I

always work hard and strive for a performance that justifies representation the best I can. There’s always immense pressure in portraying a character who is dear to the LGBTQIA+ community.

Who in Cai’s eyes is Gavreel? Who/what is he to you? Do you think Kokoy is doing a good job portraying Gav?

Gavreel is the most pleasant surprise in Cairo’s life. Though annoying and aggressive, Cairo appreciates the company and attention Gavreel gives him. He’s never felt a connection as deep as what he’s getting with Gav. He may deny it, but Gav brings light to his life. That sometimes scares him. There is no one else to play Gavreel other than Kokoy, no doubt. He delivers a performance that would instantly give you butterflies in your stomach with every line.

What do you think made Gav fall in love with Cai?

I think it’s Cairo’s mysteriousness. You never know what he’s thinking. I would say that Cairo has this innocence that makes him seem charming. And just like what Terrence said (during Ep5), Gav loves the challenge of courting a guy who’s hard to get.

Do you think Gav is sexy? Do you think Cai is sexy? In what way? (Rate for 1-10, indicate the sexiest part of your body)

Gav is.... sexy... I guess. Next question! Cai can be sexy sometimes. When he pushes his hair back, and gives you that intimidating look. (10/10 they’re my lips, people usually say they’re so kissable.)

Would you want your own Pearl? Why?

Definitely! We all need a supportive friend who genuinely cares for our well-being and the state of the country.

The show made so many people emotional in your latest episode, you guys are so effective in portraying your roles, where would you like to take Cai’s character? Would you want them to end up together (Are you also rooting for them?)? Why?

I would want Cai to be more decisive and mature. And eventually go to outer space (he kids).

Of course, I want Cai and Gav to end up together! Who doesn’t want a happy ending for these two!

Speaking as Cai, would you love someone like Gav?

To be honest.... maybe... I don’t know!

Did this show change your perspective about love? Was it different prior to starting this show? What’s your message to the fans ofthe show?

This show hasn’t changed my perspective at all. I’ve always been a firm believer of people having the right to love in all ways. It’s sad how our brothers and sisters from

the LGBTQIA+ community continue to face stigma and discrimination to this day and still don’t have the rights they deserve. Everyone should have the right to love.

This is why I’m proud to be a part of this show because it helps in normalizing stories like these. Because there’s no difference between Gameboys and every conventional romantic story out there. They’re all stories about love.

Thank you to everyone who’s been watching and supporting Gameboys! You guys make everything worth it, and we really appreciate it. We have a long way to go! I have so much love for each and everyone of you and I hope we’re able to entertain you despite all the chaos that’s been happening in the world today. Always stay safe and stay sane! Hope to meet all of you soon!

They will be showing Episode 7 this Friday, 8pm at the official The IdeaFirst Company YouTube channel. Make sure to be there to witness what will happen between Gavreel and Cairo's story, he might just admit he loves Gav in front of his ex. Perhaps, you'll see a happy ending as Elijah always wanted too. 

Again, I would like to thank MediaXchange and The IdeaFirst Company for accommodating my request to interview these guys. Thank you also to Kokoy and Elijah for being so nice, hats off to you for not only being so smart answering my questions, hope to see you soon!

PS Fans are going bonkers with Kokoy admitting a relationship with Elijah on CNN, but he said CHARENG. These guys are so funny!

Hope I'd be able to talk to Adrianna So aka Pearl and ask about her upcoming series. She just admitted doing a GL on Twitter, this is interesting!

Get To Know GAMEBOYS' Kokoy De Santos

(Photo credits: Courtesy of Kokoy De Santos' IG post)

If you haven't seen their show, you must be living under a rock. They've been really popular all over social media, and getting hundreds of thousands of views on YouTube earmarks the success of the series called GAMEBOYS. It's a home grown Pinoy BL series (Boys Love) which was done while everyone was under ECQ. It kept everyone glued to their phones, PC's and laptops, so I was really interested about how they personally felt about playing their characters. 

GAMEBOYS lead stars Elijah Canlas and Kokoy De Santos really piqued the interest of viewers as each episode unfold at 8pm every Friday at the IdeaFirst Company's official YouTube channel and they've confirmed that it will end on Episode 10. I sent Kokoy De Santos some questions so you could get to know them more. It was very interesting to see how he answered them.

How did you get involved with GAMEBOYS?

Nagsimula po ang lahat nung tinawagan ako ng The Idea First Company, inoffer nila sakin yung project, kwinento nila sakin yung role, and i just fell in love with it!

(It started with a call from The IdeaFirst Company who offered me this project, they told me about the role and I just fell in love with it!)

Can you tell us a little bit about your filming process?

Nakakapanibago, nag-shoot kami sa kanya-kanyang tahanan. Challenging, nakakapagod pero sobrang rewarding. Just enjoying the process!

(It was all new to me because we had to shoot scenes at home. It was challenging, tiring at times, but super rewarding. I am just enjoying the process!)

How did you guys make this all possible?

Sa tulong po ng aming Direktor at ang buong Production, syempre kasama din ang aming mga pamilya.

(With the help of our Director, the whole production, and our family)

This show is breaking ground on so many issues, what made you say yes to it?

Mas nandoon lang po ako sa positive side, always! Sobrang happy ako kasi madami po ang nakaka-appreciate ng aming series.

(I am just on the positive side of things, always! I am so happy that there are a lot of people who appreciate our series)

Do you enjoy doing Gavreel’s character? Who is he to you?

Sobra.. kasi marami kaming pagkakapareho po ni Gavreel. As in!

(A lot. Because Gavreel and I have so much in common)

Do you think Gav is sexy?

Funny is the new sexy?I guess? Hahaha!

Do you think Cai is sexy?

Of course! Yun lang! Naman po.

(Of course! That's it!)

In what way? (Rate for 1-10, indicate the sexiest part of your body)

Lips? 5 po? Sakto lang.

(My lips, it's a 5. Just enough)

How much of him are you in real life?

Hmmm. Sobra po. Marami talaga kaming pagkakapareho.

(Hmmm. We really have a lot in common.)

Did you know Elijah prior to doing this project?

Yes nagkasama nadin kami sa isang proyekto. At magkaibigan talaga kami.

(Yes we had a previous project. We are friends in real life)

What was your firstimpression of him?

Tahimik. Pero magaling na aktor kasi talaga tong si Elijah eh.

(Very meek. But Elijah is really a good actor.)

Do you think he’s doing a good job playing Cairo?

Naman! Hindi po mag-wowork lahat ng to, kung hindi din dahil sa kaniya.

(Of course! This wouldn't have worked if it weren't for him.)

If you were Gav, what would be the characteristics of your ideal guy?

Cute, matalino at maginoo pero medyo bastos.

(Cute, intelligent, gentlemanly but a little naughty.)

What’s your impression of Pearl’s character?

Cute!!!! Super cute talaga niya. Sobrang bagay si Adrianna sa role!

(Cute!!!! She is super cute! Adrianna was really fit for the role!)

Adrianna So has been lauded for her performance in this show, how important is she to Gav?

Hindi lang siya kay Gav importante, sa lahat ng characters. Kasi siya ang nagiging tulay namin ni Baby Cairo.

(She was not just important for Have, but for all the characters. It's because she was the bridge between me and my Baby Cairo.)

If you had one wish for Gav’s character, what would it be and why?

Wala nakong hihilingin pa, tingin ko. Tamang tama na yung timpla.

(I couldn't ask for anything more. I think he's just right.)

Fans are eager to see you end up together, cliche as it sounds, I want to ask you, has this show changed your perspective about love? What’s your message to

the fans ofthe show?

"Tingin ko hindi nagbago yung pananaw ko sa love, mas lalo lang akong naniwala na ang LOVE ay malaking part satin bilang mga tao, para maging proud, masaya, malaya at mabuhay."

"Gusto ko lang po magsalamat sa walang sawang suporta ninyo sa amin. Mahal ko kayong lahat!"

(I think my point of view about love didn't change, it made me believe even more and how big it is for us as humans. To be proud, to be happy, to live freely!)

(I would just like to thank you all for your support. I love you all!)

It was so nice and refreshing to hear him answer as Gav, no wonder a lot of people love Kokoy's character in the series. There are still a few more episodes left, I know you are excited for Part 7 this Friday, make sure you're there at 8pm. For fans of Adrianna So, I'll try to make arrangements to interview her perhaps on a later date!

Aside from this interview, we also talked to Elijah Canlas. Make sure you read that too in our next post! Stay tuned! 

PS. Thank you so much to MediaXChange and The IdeaFirst Company for helping us connect with Kokoy and Elijah! You guys rock!

 

Pinoy BL Series GAMEBOYS Succeeds During Pandemic

GCQ was so rough for all of us but there seems to be an emergence of Filipino BL series and this one made the pandemic time a little bearable as IdeaFirst Company released a show called GAMEBOYS on YouTube. They are the same people behind Die Beautiful, Ang Dalawang Mrs Reyes, Ang Babaeng Allergic Sa WiFi and might I say, they’ve been successful in terms of almost 2 Million views in YouTube, almost the same on Tiktok and the other fan accounts who just couldn’t handle the the romantic quirks this show presents. 

In a way, this is the first BL series and we’re beginning to see the Filipino mindset change before our eyes, especially when specific characters of it start to mimic real life personalities. Kokoy Santos and Elijah Canlas stars in this series and yes, they’ve got nods from previous films they did in the international arena, in some way, it wasn’t surprising to see them do good in this project. Recently, their best friend Pearl played by Adrianna So also got a piece of the spotlight as her character will begin having her own series, but I’m telling you the kilig is in all their recent episodes, go watch it just for that. 

Ivan Payawal the director made sure you feel how to be in their shoes, to make you see how two guys could fall in love, treat each other as angels, and see things from their perspective. GAMEBOYS is being released in YouTube every Friday at 8PM. Make sure you subscribe to the IdeaFirst YouTube channel to get notified of its release.