The gripping action drama Crosspoint, directed by Donie Ordiales, is set to premiere on Netflix Philippines on March 13, 2025, following its successful theatrical release in the country. A compelling collaboration between the Philippines and Japan, the film stars award-winning Filipino actor Carlo Aquino, known for Whispers in the Wind, and Emmy-nominated Japanese actor Takehiro Hira, recognized for his performance in Shogun.
A Story of Survival and Destiny
Desperation brings people to the most unexpected crossroads. Crosspoint follows Manuel Hidalgo, played by Carlo Aquino, a once-promising Filipino actor now living in the shadows of Tokyo, forced to perform illegally in Filipino pubs to survive. Struggling to escape his past and make ends meet, he crosses paths with Shigeru Yamaguchi, played by Takehiro Hira, a former construction manager drowning in debt and regret.
Both men are trapped—Manuel by his failures and the harsh reality of being an undocumented worker, and Shigeru by financial ruin and the weight of his past decisions. Desperate for a fresh start, they encounter an unexpected opportunity that could either change their lives or seal their fates forever. When they recognize a fugitive on the news, they see a chance to claim a massive reward. What begins as a desperate bid for survival soon turns into a perilous chase, forcing them to confront their deepest fears, test their morality, and determine how far they are willing to go to take control of their lives.
Director’s Vision: Inspired by Real-Life Struggles
Filmmaker Donie Ordiales, a Filipino director based in Japan, shares how Crosspoint was inspired by real people and events:
“The characters of Manuel Hidalgo and Shigeru Yamaguchi were inspired by real people I met in Japan. Initially, I planned to create separate stories for each of them—one targeting the Filipino audience and the other challenging myself to capture the Japanese market. But while contemplating which story to pursue, I saw a news report about a serial killer on the loose in Chiba. In that moment, I knew these two characters belonged in the same world, brought together by their struggles and a common goal: survival.”
“What we can learn from Crosspoint is that nothing in life is stable. You can be at the top today, but everything can change in an instant. The greatest obstacle to progress is often ourselves, and unfortunately, the price of realizing this truth can be steep.”
Carlo Aquino on Portraying an Overseas Filipino Worker
Carlo Aquino delved deep into his personal experiences to authentically portray Manuel Hidalgo, reflecting the challenges faced by many Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs). Drawing parallels between his own career fluctuations and Manuel’s journey, Aquino remarked:
“From being very popular, he became a washed-up actor, and then he was looking for work… It also happened to me. From my teenage years, tapos biglang nawala (projects suddenly disappeared). Although with Manuel, he’s older, it happened to me through the years. So, kumbaga, parang pasok pa rin (it still felt fitting). Parang ako pa rin naman talaga si Manuel Hidalgo.”
Aquino hopes Crosspoint captures the struggles and sacrifices of Filipinos working abroad—the dreams they chase, the hardships they endure, and the lengths they go to for the people they love.
An Award-Winning Cast & Japan-Philippines Co-Production
The film boasts a powerhouse cast, including Sho Ikushima, Sarah Jane Abad, Dindo Arroyo, Kei Kurosawa, Ian De Leon, Aoi Okuyama, Ken Yamamura, Stefanie Arianne, Polo Ravales, Zeppi Borromeo, Misa Shimizu, and Rie Shibata. Crosspoint seamlessly blends the storytelling traditions of both the Philippines and Japan, presenting a raw and emotionally charged cinematic experience.
Takehiro Hira, recently Emmy-nominated for his performance in Shogun, delivers a compelling portrayal of a man on the brink, while Carlo Aquino, known for his award-winning role in Whispers in the Wind, brings depth and intensity to Manuel’s turbulent journey.
A Landmark Netflix Acquisition
Philippines-based Fire & Ice Media has successfully sold the Asia Pacific rights for Crosspoint to Netflix in a major deal secured during the Asian Contents & Film Market (ACFM) in Busan. This strategic move highlights the growing demand for high-quality Filipino cinema on international streaming platforms.
Crosspoint premieres on Netflix Philippines on March 13, 2025.