A film that tackles family, love, and struggles on foreign soil
Every Filipino household has a story about an Overseas Filipino Worker (OFW). For some, it’s a quest for better opportunities, for others, it’s an escape from challenging circumstances.
This complex narrative forms the backdrop of the romantic drama Maple Leaf Dreams, starring LA Santos and Kira Balinger.
In the film, co-written by Benedict Mique and Hannah Cruz, Kira and LA portray Molly and Macky, a couple who relocate to Toronto in search of better jobs. Their journey is fraught with personal, professional, and cultural challenges that test both their decisions and their love.
The cast features not only established Filipino actors like Joey Marquez and Snooky Serna but also talents from the Filipino community in Canada, including Benito Mique and beauty queen Bea Rose Santiago.
Filmed predominantly in Canada, Maple Leaf Dreams showcases iconic locations such as Niagara Falls, CN Tower, and Kensington Market. The experience of shooting in the “Great White North” offered Kira and LA a glimpse into the lives of Filipinos abroad.
“Even though life is good for our fellow countrymen there, they still say that they prefer living in the Philippines,” LA noted.
The film has generated excitement among Fil-Canadian communities. “They are very eager to watch because this is their story,” said Roselle T. Lorenzo of Robe Entertainment. “For many, watching a Filipino film is a way to reconnect with home.”
Meanwhile, early screenings in the Philippines have garnered positive feedback for the performances of Kira and LA, as well as for the film’s authentic portrayal of OFW life.
“This isn’t just a love story; it’s about survival, relationships, and the realities of being Filipino abroad,” remarked actor Mac Manicad.
Wattpad writers echoed this sentiment, praising the film’s representation of OFW struggles and triumphs. “It tackles family, love, and important issues that give us insight,” noted members of the Ateneo Film Organization.
Director Avel Sunpongco expressed hope for viewers, stating, “The movie offers a lot of hope. Keep fighting! Rise up!” David Chu and Raphaele Ramos from Animo Film Lab encouraged audiences to watch, highlighting the sacrifices of OFWs worldwide.
The film premiered at Gateway Cinema 12 on Sept. 20, attended by friends and family of the cast, including celebrities like Jameson Blake, Bailey May, Jillian Vicencio Gillian Vicencio.
Maple Leaf Dreams is produced by 7K Entertainment, Lonewolf Films, and ABS-CBN’s Star Magic, with distribution by Quantum Films in the Philippines and Robe Entertainment in Canada.
The film unspools in Philippine theaters on Sept. 25. It will also screen in major Canadian cities—Toronto, Winnipeg, Calgary, Edmonton, and Vancouver—beginning Sept. 27.
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