'Take Me To Banaue:' Romantic movie with cross-cultural flair

Behind the scene shoot of 'Take Me To Banaue' 

Carpe Diem Pictures recently held the Celebrity Red Carpet Private Screening of "Take Me To Banaue" at Shangrila Plaza led by Maureen Wroblewitz, Thea Tolentino, MJ Lastimosa, Dylan Rogers and Fil-Am director/writer Danny Aguilar.

Co-written with Jason Rogers, the story follows Hank, a gawky American engineer in his pursuit to meet the perfect girlfriend who he hopes to marry. But after discovering that woman is actually an escort who only stays with him for the financial benefits, he spends time grappling with a deal from a businesswoman and listening to his friend's advice while making his way to Banaue.

Some of the cast of 'Take Me To Banaue' 

"The primary theme of 'Take Me To Banaue' is justification," said Aguilar who, in real life, has an interracial marriage. "The four major characters (Hank, Grace, Jinky and Jordan) all try to justify their actions and choices in life."

Principal photography was completed in Baguio City and Banaue, Ifugao; as well as in Dallas, Texas, USA.

"I hope the movie will inspire people and transform them in a more cathartic way. And I hope this film put the Philippines on the proverbial Hollywood map," said Aguilar.

"I want everyone to see my homeland as more than a place with gorgeous beaches and delicious cuisine. I want them to go deeper and love it as I do."      

Also in the cast are Boobay, Carla Guevara LaForteza, Archi Adamos, Lorain Fausto, Glenn Franklin, Megan Guthrie, and Hiliard Paul Puguon.  

"Take Me To Banaue" was released worldwide last Feb. 12, 2024.