The romantic comedy Asian Persuasion is set to arrive in UAE cinemas for a limited run from October 17 to 23, 2024. The film, directed by Tony and Grammy winner Jhett Tolentino in his feature directorial debut, promises a blend of humor, romance, and the vibrant culture of New York City. With a running time of 93 minutes, the film is poised to capture hearts when it premieres in the UAE under Phars Film, LLC.
The story follows Mickey de Los Santos, a down-on-his-luck chef who devises an outlandish scheme to marry off his ex-wife, Avery Chua, in order to escape his substantial alimony obligations. With the help of his trusted wingman, Mickey sets up a fake internet dating profile to find Avery a new suitor, hoping she will remarry and free him of his financial burden. However, things take an unexpected turn when Mickey realizes he may want a second chance with Avery—but it might be too late.
At its core, Asian Persuasion is more than just a romantic comedy. It is a tribute to the magic and wonder of New York City, showcasing both its iconic landmarks and lesser-known cultural enclaves. The film, shot in New York City in the spring of 2022, celebrates the city’s unique charm, where unexpected magic often happens.
Asian Persuasion also made significant strides in representation, prioritizing the hiring of Asian, female department heads, as well as LGBTQIA+ crew and filmmakers. The film boasts a diverse production team, with 21 Asian countries represented, including Bangladesh, Cambodia, China, India, Japan, the Philippines, Singapore, South Korea, and Vietnam, among others.
The film had its world premiere at the SOHO International Film Festival in New York City on September 16, 2023, where it won the Audience Award, further heightening anticipation for its global release. Written by Mike Ang, the film stars Dante Basco, KC Concepcion, Kevin Kreider, and Paolo Montalban.
Don’t miss Asian Persuasion when it hits UAE cinemas this October, offering a humorous and heartwarming story that explores love, second chances, and the twists and turns of life in the modern world.
