Piolo Pascual and Jasmine Curtis-Smith star in the suspenseful drama thriller “Real Life Fiction,” directed by Paul Soriano and produced by Black Cap Pictures.
The film, which both stars described as their boldest yet, was shot at the height of the pandemic and depicts the mental turmoil of an actor who begins to lose his sense of self after years in the spotlight.
Pascual portrays Paco, a successful actor who decides to write, direct and star in a film that gradually drives him to self-destruction. Curtis-Smith plays Paula, his muse both on screen and in his personal life, blurring the lines between reality and fiction. The film explores the psychological stress actors face in their quest for artistic brilliance.
“We were on set the entire time and couldn’t leave due to lockdown, but it was an incredibly focused and rewarding experience,” Pascual said of the production. “Working in such an intense environment allowed us to fully immerse ourselves in our characters.”
Curtis-Smith shared this view, noting that the challenge was adapting to the “new normal” of filmmaking during the pandemic. “Most of the scenes were shot indoors, with only a few exterior shots at the Circuit in Makati. Despite the restrictions, the experience was anything but difficult,” she said.
When Curtis-Smith spoke about her decision to join the project, she emphasized how much she was looking forward to working with the team behind the film.
“The script and the cast were too good to pass up, especially in these uncertain times,” she said.
Pascual also found the film’s concept intriguing, noting that it was a departure from the usual romantic comedies he is known for. “It was a chance to try a different kind of role and I was excited to work with this team,” he added.
Real Life Fiction also stars Epy Quizon as Paco’s stern but supportive manager, and filmmaker Lav Diaz makes a special appearance as a pawnbroker who plays a central role in Paco’s journey of self-discovery.
Produced by TEN17P, Viva Films and Spring Films, Real Life Fiction will be released exclusively at SM Cinemas nationwide on August 28. The film is rated R16 by the MTRCB.
