"Suddenly It's Magic" sparks Filipino-Thai romance

CEBU, Philippines - Star Cinema's first Filipino-Thai film topbilled by Thai superstar Mario Maurer and Filipina primetime princess Erich Gonzales is all set to spread romance among Pinoy moviegoers with its approaching release in cinemas nationwide on October 31 (Wednesday).

Led by multi-awarded movie and TV director Rory B. Quintos, the film shares a modern-day fairytale between popular Thai actor Marcus (Mario) and a simple Filipina baker Joey (Erich) who are both in pursuit of their respective happiness.

"The movie is really about unconditional love," explained Direk Rory. "It's about learning how to let go and set free of the person you love so that he or she could fulfill his or her greatest potential. So when he or she comes back to you, you will really be loved."

Direk Rory revealed that when the concept of "Suddenly It's Magic" was approved, Mario was asked to choose his leading lady for the film. "They had sent pictures of several Filipino actresses of his generation and Mario was given the chance to choose," she narrated. "And when I found out that it was Erich, I was really happy because I know how good she is as an actress." It was reported that Mario chose Erich because he found her so beautiful, very Filipina-looking, and a talented actress.

The instant chemistry between Mario and Erich was personally witnessed by Direk Rory. "On the first day of shooting, first sequence, first shot, right away kitang-kita 'yung chemistry," she said. "Actually, when I had a story conference for both of them, I already saw that there was good chemistry. Bagay na bagay sila! They looked so good together."

When asked about Mario as an actor, Direk Rory had nothing but good word for the Thai superstar. "What struck me the most was he seemed to be such a nice boy and he is really cute," shared Direk Rory. "I think women of all generations would appreciate how cute he is and you'll actually see in his eyes that he is a good person."

Likewise, the award-winning director adores the film's leading lady. "I've worked with her for almost a year in the TV series 'Maria la del Barrio' and we got along very well," she explained. "Erich is very young and a very good actress. Marami pa siyang magagawa in the future, I have no doubt that in the future she will bring awards at ang layo-layo pa ng mararating niya sa buhay."

Shot in two major locations namely Ilocos, Philippines and Bangkok, Thailand, "Suddenly It's Magic" is set to hit theatres nationwide on October 31, 2012. (FREEMAN)