LEA RISING: On Zodiacs, Break-ups and Gen Z shenanigans

Do zodiac signs really matter in love?

Just in time for the Chinese Lunar New Year, Dasmariñas-based film production Gulaman Entertainment proudly brings “Lea Rising” (a wordplay of the lead female’s name Lea and the Leo rising sign). For their first film this 2021, GE aims to tell the not-so-romantic story of Lea and Neil on their astrology-based “incompatibility”.

Amidst the pandemic, GE was able to produce their newest short film in two months’ time - all the while relying on Zoom meetings. From acting sessions to shooting proper, Lea Rising’s Writer and Director Pat Sarmiento attested how distance and community quarantine restrictions became a struggle for her and the whole team. Thanks to the staff’s tireless efforts, they were able to pull everything off as she wanted.

For GE, “Lea Rising” is unlike a typical “It’s not you, it’s me” love story.

With her films leaning more towards social commentary and psychological-horror, Direk Pat laughingly shared how she “weirdly” came up with the film’s concept while taking a shower. She also expressed her gratitude to Paul Boleche, assistant director and script supervisor, who helped her take inspiration from the millenials’ odd fascination for zodiac signs these days.

As for Shekinah Napicol, playing the lead female role was an enjoyable challenge. At first, she had a hard time relating to her character’s bubbly and loud personality. Even so, her love for acting and shared passion with GE allowed her to bring Lea to life.

For GE, “Lea Rising” is unlike a typical “It’s not you, it’s me” love story. It is a short film that all ages, especially Gen Zs, can relate to - whatever their zodiac (or rising) sign may be.

Watch the full video of "Lea Rising" here:

(P.S. This is the second GE film that I appeared on but only as a cameo. The first one was in Untitled 2, where I had the lead role.)