CinemaBravo

With the release release of the Filipino adaptation of the Korean drama ‘Keys to the Heart’ for streaming on the global platform Netflix, Kapamilya actor Zanjoe Marudo has garnered widespread acclaim for an exceptional performance for his lead role.

Shining for his own merits through his acting depth and maturity, Zanjoe has showcased his talent on the role of a troubled and washed-up boxer in this movie. He shared the spotlight with the talented Ms. Dolly De Leon, fresh off her victory as Best Supporting Actress in “Triangle of Sadness,” as well as with the emerging serious actor, Elijah Canlas.

Produced locally by Reality MM Studios, Creative Leaders Group 8, and VIVA Films, ‘Keys to the Heart’ was quick to be on the charts of Netflix Philippines as the second most-watched movie just a day after its release on October 4, 2023.

“Keys to the Heart” is a heartwarming family drama that follows the challenges faced by Joma, portrayed by Marudo, as he returns to his family, which he has been estranged from for years.

Producers Dondon Monteverde and Erik Matti of Reality MM Studios recognized the potential of “Keys to the Heart” from the start and set out to create a Filipino version that retained the essence of the original from CJ Entertainment while infusing it with a distinctive Filipino sensibility under the direction of Kerwin Go (known for “Mina-Anud”). As a result, the Philippine adaptation features a unique ending compared to the Korean version.

In the film, Ms. Dolly de Leon portrays Joma’s long-lost mother, while Elijah Canlas embodies the role of Jayjay, an autistic pianist. Marudo’s exceptional portrayal stems from his natural ability to inhabit the character of a washed-up boxer, combining subtlety and impeccable comedic timing to enrich the complexity of his role.

Elijah Canlas’ dedication to his role is evident in his authentic piano playing skills and his remarkable portrayal of a genius pianist with savant syndrome. He underwent training with a piano teacher to master the technical aspects of a pianist’s performance and immersed himself in the lives and behaviors of individuals with autism for a genuine portrayal.

Both actors prove themselves as standout performers of their generation.

The production team behind “Keys to the Heart” – Reality MM Studios, Creative Leaders Group 8, and VIVA Films – is also responsible for “Ultimate Oppa,” a romantic comedy shot in South Korea featuring Bela Padilla, Kim Gun Woo (“The Glory”), and Cho Tae Gwan (“Descendants of the Sun,” “My Secret Terrius”). This partnership promises more exciting collaborations, including the local adaptation of the Korean horror blockbuster “Gonjiam: Haunted Asylum” and the successful vigilante series “Taxi Driver.”

Reality MM Studios has a track record of producing Filipino content that reaches global audiences, with their recent zombie flick, “Day Zero,” starring Brandon Vera and MJ Lastimosa, streaming in Asia and securing a wide digital release in the US through WellGo.

The studio has an ambitious lineup ahead, including three major series directed by Matti set to premiere within the next two years.

The Filipino remake of ‘Keys to the Heart’ is exclusively streaming on Netflix.