Love in the ‘New Normal’: ‘Dito at Doon’ starring Janine Gutierrez and JC Santos [Now Streaming]
Exactly a year since the COVID-19 pandemic changed lives and the media landscape, TBA Studios, in association with WASD Films, launched the online release of its newest full-length feature “Dito at Doon” this Wednesday, March 31, 2021. It’s also the first local film simultaneously streaming on 5 major online platforms (KTX, Cinema76@Home, Iwant TFC, Upstream, Ticket2me).
Set during these pandemic, this relatable Janine Gutierrez—JC Santos romance movie was supposed to have arrived in theaters nationwide last March 17.
But after much deliberation, a thoughtful decision was arrived at by the film’s producers, especially taking into consideration everyone’s health and safety in mind.
“We feel this is the best possible way to make sure that everyone’s ‘Dito at Doon’ movie experience is a safe and enjoyable one,” said E. A. Rocha, TBA Studios’ CCO and one of the executive producers for ‘Dito at Doon.’”
Love in the ‘New Normal’
“Dito at Doon” revolves around political science graduate Len (Janine Gutierrez) and her online/offline frenemy Caloy (JC Santos). Len works from home, and is someone who fights for things she loves and believes in. Caloy, on the other hand, is a front liner and has a perspective that’s different from Len’s. With their polarizing views and challenges of not being physically together, will their relationship survive?
Directed by JP Habac of “I’m Drunk, I Love You” fame, “Dito at Doon” also features host and stand-up comedian Victor Anastacio (likewise playing someone who’s deprived of the physical presence of a loved one) and theater actress Yesh Burce, with the special participation of Janine’s real-life mom Lotlot de Leon.
The film was developed, shot and completed during the pandemic, which continues through now, with March being its anniversary month. It incorporates such “lockdown” realities as e-numan, video calls, DIY learnings as well as being a plant parent, while reflecting on the possibility that the “new normal” could be poised to stick around longer.
“We know how much it means for movie fans to finally share a moviegoing experience together, whether at home or wherever they choose to see it with friends and family. We’re proud to bring this timely yet timeless, heartwarming film to all,” Rocha added.
During a recent bloggers’ conference, lead actor JC Santos said he was grateful to TBA Studios for providing income opportunities for those who work in the entertainment industry especially in these uncertain times. “Hindi mo alam ang mangyayari bukas at hindi mo alam kung makaka- trabaho ka pa. [Itong ‘Dito at Doon’] isa siya sa pinakamalapit na nangyari sa akin,” expressed Santos who sees “Dito at Doon” as one of his most personal projects.
Urian and Famas Best Actress Janine Gutierrez, meanwhile, finds “Dito at Doon” as one of the authentic films she has worked on. “Kasi naging makatotohanan siya. Hindi niya isinantabi itong mga pinagdaanan natin nitong ECQ, GCQ; and instead sinubukan niyang i-mirror ‘yun at ipakita,” she said.
Netizens have been supportive of the film since it released its trailer on March 4.
“Kami po nina Janine, JC, and the rest of ‘Dito at Doon’ team are so thankful to everyone who’s been constantly messaging us on social media to let us know how excited they are to see ‘Dito at Doon’,” shared director JP Habac.
