2021 was a solid year for HBO GO. From Hollywood blockbusters such as Tenet and The Suicide Squad to critically acclaimed original shows and specials such as Sucession and FRIENDS: The Reunion, HBO GO made it possible for Filipinos to enjoy all of these hits and more in the comforts of their own homes.
Recognized as one of the most respected and innovative entertainment brands in the world, through its power to connect with all types of audiences, storytelling has always been at the heart of HBO.
Driven by the desire to develop the best shows and films that illustrate the incredible power of storytelling, this year, a number of HBO Asia Original Series and Movies showcasing Filipino talent earned recognition on the international front.
On The Job won big in Venice
Diving further into the world Erik Matti created in his award-winning 2013 movie of the same name, the engrossing six-part hour-long crime thriller series On The Job premiered globally and exclusively on HBO GO on September 16.
Inspired by true events, On the Job centers around crime syndicates that temporarily release contracted prison inmates to carry out political assassinations for those in power. The series also puts a spotlight on the real-world issue of fake news and how easily the truth can be spun, manufactured, and disseminated to the public in an age where information spreads faster than ever.
Select episodes from the series were screened in competition at the prestigious 78th Venice International Film Festival, and John Arcilla’s portrayal of the character “Sisoy Salas” won him the festival’s Volpi Cup (Best Actor) award. On the Job was also the only film from Asia among 21 international films that screened during the competition.
Gensan Punch scored a knockout win in Busan
Inspired by a true story and led by visionary director Brillante Mendoza, HBO Asia Original Film Gensan Punch entered the ring exclusively on HBO GO on December 16, 2021.
The film centers around Nao, a Japanese man who dreams of becoming a professional boxer. While his skills may be undeniable, his use of a prosthetic leg leads him to fail “physical condition regulations” – rendering him unable to fight professionally.
This leads him on a journey to the Philippines, where the road to chasing his dream takes him to the so-called Gensan Quarter of General Santos City – a place long renowned for producing athletes including legendary boxer Manny Pacquiao.
Gensan Punch was one of two winners of the prestigious Kim Jiseok Award handed out at the 26th Busan International Film Festival held in October. The award was given to films that reflect the contemporary standing of Asian cinema. The film was also screened at the “Gala Selection (Non-Competition) of the 34th Tokyo International Film Festival which ran from October 30 to November 8, 2021.
Folklore Season 2 served up scares with a unique Filipino flavor
Envisioned as a horror anthology, HBO Asia Original series Folklore shines a light on deeply-rooted superstitions and myths from Asia. To the delight of horror fans across the country, The Philippines was one of six Asian territories featured on Folklore Season 2 which premiered exclusively on both HBO GO and HBO on November 14.
The episode titled Folklore S2: 7 Days Of Hell was directed by Erik Matti who infused his unique perspective on this small town horror tale. The story focuses on a righteous policewoman’s race against time to save her son when he falls dangerously ill from an unknown cause.
When her son is given only a few weeks to live, she discovers that his illness is of supernatural origin and that a powerful sorcerer has cursed him. The only way for her son to survive is for him to apologize and make amends to the sorcerer. As the clock ticks, she is sent on a desperate quest to save her son.
Immerse in the horror of FOLKLORE S2 on HBO GO now.
For those interested, you may subscribe to HBO GO online at www.hbogoasia.ph or the mobile app via the App Store or Play Store on your device for as low as PhP 99.70/month. Or access HBO GO via Cignal, Globe, and Skycable. HBO GO is also available on Android TV, Apple TV, LG TV, and Samsung Smart TV – and comes with AirPlay and Google Cast functionality.
