Scatena & Rosner Films is launching the debut film directorial project of Grammy and Tony winner Jhett Tolentino, titled “Asian Persuasion,” in movie theaters across North America. A digital or video-on-demand release will follow this initial theater run. The romantic comedy was written by Mike Ang and features Dante Basco, known for his role in “Hook,” and Filipino star KC Concepcion from the film “Boy Golden: Shoot to Kill.
At the 2023 Soho International Film Festival, I had the pleasure of watching a movie that won the Audience Award – a film that I’m now excited to share with all of you! This intriguing story revolves around a character who, much like myself when faced with unexpected financial predicaments, comes up with a clever plan to evade alimony obligations towards my former high-flying fashion executive spouse.
The impressive ensemble cast includes some familiar faces from the small screen – Kevin Kreider, who stole hearts on “Bling Empire”, Paolo Montalban, best known for his role as Prince Charming in “Cinderella”, Geneva Carr from “It’s Complicated”, Scarlet Sherr of “Hustlers”, Celia Au from “Lodge 49”, and fresh talent Jax Bacani. Get ready to be captivated by their performances!
The adult-oriented comedy-drama is set to premiere in key cities such as Los Angeles, Seattle, Houston, Dallas, San Francisco, Las Vegas, Chicago, Toronto, Honolulu, and Washington D.C., thanks to Seismic Releasing’s collaborative arrangement for theatrical distribution.
Off-camera, Tolentino gathered a team featuring cinematographer Andrea Walter (“The Fabulous Filipino Brothers”), as well as production and costume designer Sheena Alexis (“Caretakers”). Additionally, composer Eunike Tanzil was part of the team. This production notably united artists from 21 Asian nations, highlighting skills ranging from Bangladesh to Vietnam.
Tolentino expressed his gratitude, saying, “It’s been a long-awaited moment,” referring to the release of this modest masterpiece to a broader public. He also mentioned that he directed the film during the pandemic, and explained his decision to take up directing: “Having spent a decade in commercial production, both in theater and films, I felt compelled to step into directing. Given the current state of democracy being tested, this is my small act of resistance – standing tall for the rights of minorities, with the dream that art I create can inspire future generations to be compassionate and empathetic towards those who are often marginalized or treated as second-class citizens.
In the U.S., where I was raised as an Asian-American, it was challenging to find characters or stories that truly mirrored my experiences in movies and TV shows back then,” said Ang. “With ‘Asian Persuasion’, I had the opportunity to portray a classic American love story authentically through the perspective of the Asian-American community. The fact that this indie film even exists is a powerful demonstration of the influence of our community and the value of authenticity.
As a passionate fan, I’m positively thrilled about the future of “Asian Persuasion.” The tale spun by Jhett Tolentino and Mike Ang is both relatable and humorous, with a heartwarming touch. Every scene showcases their storytelling prowess, seamlessly blending passion, creativity, and vibrant Filipino cultural elements with themes that resonate universally, making it effortless for everyone to find a connection. Kudos to Zach Stampone, VP of Distribution at Scatena & Rosner, for his optimism!
The production company, Jhett Tolentino Productions, was responsible for creating this feature. Jhett Tolentino and Ang served as the producers. After making its debut at the Soho fest, the movie also screened at the Richmond International Film Festival and ended the San Diego Filipino Film Festival.
“Asian Persuasion” hits theaters March 21, with digital and VOD platforms following on May 27.
Tolentino has been involved in creating a total of 19 stage performances, both on Broadway and off-Broadway, such as “Vanya and Sonia and Masha and Spike,” starring Sigourney Weaver, and “A Raisin in the Sun” with Denzel Washington. In the realm of music production, he managed the recording of the cast album for “The Color Purple,” which featured Cynthia Erivo, Jennifer Hudson, and Danielle Brooks. As a film producer, his works include “Life Is What You Make It” from 2017 and Isabel Sandoval’s “Lingua Franca,” which debuted at the 2019 Venice Film Festival.
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2025-02-20 18:46