The Cinema One Originals film “That Thing Called Tadhana” continues to soar. After a successful nationwide release last month and positive responses from critics and film viewers, the Angelica Panganiban–JM de Guzman starrer is heading to US theaters starting this March 27 (Friday).
The phenomenal blockbuster hit, which amassed a staggering 134 million pesos last month, has been named the highest grossing indie film of all time, with screenings always sold out nationwide. Director Antoinette Jadaone’s romantic-comedy film has also harvested numerous awards, including the Audience Choice and Best Actress awards at the 2014 Cinema One Originals Film Festival, as well as the Best Actor award at the Gawad Pasado.
“That Thing Called Tadhana” has also been selected in various international film festivals. Jadaone’s film will compete at the Osaka Asian Film Festival 2015 and will be part of the Los Angeles Asian Film FeStival, and at the Hawaii International Film Festival.
Angelica Panganiban is elated on the film’s continued success. She recently shared her excitement about the film’s slated screenings abroad at the film’s victory party.
“I am very excited because our Kapamilya abroad will have the chance to watch the film. I hope that ‘Tadhana’ will experience the same success abroad as it did here in the country,” Angelica Panganiban said.
On winning best actress in awards shows, Angelica Panganiban said the experience is humbling.
“Just being nominated together with ate Guy (Nora Aunor), ate Vi (Vilma Santos), Sharon Cuneta, is such an honor. I felt that the nomination itself was already a win because my name was in the same category with them,” she added.
Meanwhile, JM de Guzman, who recently won his first best actor award for the film, said he is grateful to be given the part of Anthony.
“I am very thankful that the role of Anthony was given to me. From the very start, I have believed in the script and the people behind the film because ‘Tadhana’ has a very compelling story, but I did not expect that it would be such a big hit. Everything is happening so fast. I mean, we already have an international screening and we’re taking part in international film festivals. It’s so surreal,” JM shared.
JM also reacted on how ‘Tadhana’ served as his big comeback to showbiz with a big charming smile.
“I just laughed a lot when people say that ‘That Thing Called Tadhana’ catapulted me to matinee idol status. I did leading man roles before, but becoming a matinee idol didn’t occur to me. Thinking about it just makes me laugh,” JM said.
JM is also pleased about “Tadhana’s” international screenings because it will generate more awareness about indie filmmakers, actors, and producers.
Aside from international screenings, “That Thing Called Tadhana” will have an outdoor screening at Cinema One’s Boracay summer event on March 28 (Saturday) and director Antoinette Jadaone’s breakthrough film will also have a book adaptation.