‘Lolo and the Kid’ director Benedict Mique paints a new portrait of overseas Filipinos in ‘Maple Leaf Dreams’
Fresh from the acclaimed “Lolo and the Kid,” visionary filmmaker Benedict Mique returns with an exploration of contemporary Filipino realities and the unwavering spirit of family love in “Maple Leaf Dreams.” This stirring film, an official entry in the Sinag Maynila Film Festival, hits select local cinemas from September 4-8 before its nationwide release on September 25.
L-R: Writer-director Benedict Mique, co-writer Hannah Cruz, lead stars Kira Balinger and LA Santos
“Maple Leaf Dreams” is proof to the enduring Filipino dream, following the journey of Macky and Molly, a young couple portrayed by the luminous LA Santos and Kira Balinger. Driven by aspirations for a better life for their families, they embark on a life-altering journey to Canada. Their path is fraught with challenges and uncertainties, testing the depths of their love and resilience. Eighty percent of this evocative film was shot on location in Toronto, lending an authentic backdrop to their story.
The stellar cast includes seasoned actors Joey Marquez and Snooky Serna as Molly’s parents, and Ricky Davao as Macky’s father. Adding depth and nuance are Malou Crisologo, Jong Cuenco, Jeff Gaitan, Hannah Thalia Vito, Luke Alford, Kanishia Santos, Benito Mique, Wilson Martinito, and the captivating Canada-based beauty queen Bea Rose Santiago.
Director Mique was inspired to create “Maple Leaf Dreams” by the growing trend of Filipinos seeking opportunities in Canada. “In the past, Filipinos often looked to the US and Europe for a better life,” he observes, “but now Canada has become the new destination.”
While other films have explored the Filipino diaspora experience, “Maple Leaf Dreams” distinguishes itself with its timely perspective and profound understanding of the OFW (Overseas Filipino Worker) journey. LA Santos, a three-time Best Supporting Actor winner, emphasizes the film’s authenticity, stating, “We’ll show the real struggles of OFWs in Canada and how difficult it is to navigate an unfamiliar place.”
Director Mique immersed himself in the Toronto Filipino community for months, conducting extensive research and engaging with locals, some of whom were cast in the film. Kira Balinger highlights the unique perspective of the film, saying, “When you think of OFWs, you often picture successful individuals. We’re going to show the path they took to get there, all the hardships they overcame to achieve their dreams.”
Filming in Canada was a transformative experience for the entire team, both on and off screen. LA Santos shares a profound insight from his character, “I learned that life isn’t easy, but the people we’re with, the people we love, they’re the ones who will pull us through.”
“Maple Leaf Dreams” promises to be a moving representation of the Filipino spirit, a story of love, resilience, and the pursuit of dreams. The film will also have theatrical screenings in Canada, sharing this narrative with audiences worldwide.
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