Filmmaker Q. Allan Brocka is set to make history with his upcoming project, “Love & Lockdown.” This romantic comedy will be the first Filipino movie to feature a real-life transgender man as the lead character. The search for the perfect actor was a long and challenging process, but they eventually found Gian Cruz just days before filming was set to begin. Gian will play the role of Danny, a Canadian trans man who reluctantly returns to the Philippines with his British Indian girlfriend, Neisha, for a quick trip to correct his passport. However, due to the COVID-19 lockdown, they become trapped in the small village where Danny was born. This situation forces him to confront various aspects of his life, including his family, his past, his relationship, and most importantly, himself. Neisha will be played by British Indian actress Bairavi Manohanan.
According to Allan, Gian stood out during auditions because he brought a unique charm and confidence to the script, which was different from the other actors who took a more sad and disappointed approach. It was important for Allan to cast a natural trans actor in the role, someone who truly needed the opportunity. Gian, who is a photographer by profession and had limited acting experience, impressed Allan from the moment he auditioned. Allan believes that projects like this open doors for trans actors to pursue their acting dreams and create more opportunities in the industry.
To ensure Gian’s performance was confident and consistent, Allan took the time to rehearse with him extensively. Despite his lack of experience, Allan commends Gian for his dedication and talent on set. On the other hand, Bairavi Marohanan, who plays Neisha, was cast differently. Allan hired a casting director in London to find the perfect actress for the role of a British character. Bairavi stood out among the auditions, and Allan knew she was the right choice. The chemistry between Gian and Bairavi was built through spending time together and rehearsing, resulting in a believable on-screen couple.
Allan’s journey in making this film has been challenging but fulfilling. He is grateful for the opportunity to return to the Philippines and work with talented individuals. The goal is to start screening the film at festivals next spring and secure a distributor soon after. Allan has since returned to the US for postproduction work. Through this project, Allan hopes to create more opportunities for trans actors and tell stories that need to be heard.
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