Social media personality Malupiton is taking his brand of comedy beyond online videos. His leading-role debut in a rom-com challenges him to explore scripted acting and dramatic scenes alongside actress Analyn Barro.
Known for his humorous online content and collaborations with fellow creators, Malupiton is now testing his acting abilities in “He’s Dating a Boldstar” directed by Niokz Arcega. In the movie, he plays Jeboy, an aspiring musician who unexpectedly falls in love with a sexy film star.
During the film’s press conference, Malupiton — whose real name is Joel Ravanera — admitted that transitioning from creating online videos to acting in a movie required adjustments.
“The main difference is the script. With our content, we can manage even without one. But here, you really have something to follow. The dramatic scenes, especially the crying, were difficult for me. It was challenging at first, but gradually, I managed to do it,” he said.
Despite the challenges, Malupiton said audiences can expect a different side of him, particularly in scenes that require seriousness rather than his usual comedic antics.
“We have many scenes where I need to be serious. There are arguments and misunderstandings, which we don’t usually do in our content. There are still jokes, but audiences will see a different side of me.”
He also hopes the film will remind audiences of the comedy movies he grew up watching, citing veteran comedians Babalu and Redford White among his inspirations.
“I really want to bring back the kind of comedy that made people laugh.”
Co-star Barro, who is known for her work on GMA Network’s long-running comedy show “Bubble Gang,” said working with Malupiton was a pleasant experience despite initially knowing him only through his social media videos.
“I used to see him only in reels. I would watch his videos before going to sleep and even while taking a bath. Naturally, I was curious about what he was really like offscreen,” she shared.
Barro added that their working relationship developed naturally, crediting the director for creating a comfortable environment.
“Malupiton was easy to work with, and we really clicked. With Direk Niokz’s help, the atmosphere on set was relaxed and happy, allowing us to come up with many creative ideas for the movie,” she said.
In the film, Jeboy’s life takes an unexpected turn when he meets Kit (Barro), a popular sexy film star who visits his hometown. Their unlikely friendship turns into romance, but their relationship faces challenges as they struggle to balance their personal ambitions, careers and feelings for each other.
Arcega said the film explores more than its unconventional romantic premise, particularly the importance of understanding others without judging them based on their profession.
“All the films I make have an advocacy. This one is about gender sensitivity, family and friends. I always say we should tell meaningful stories so audiences feel that their movie tickets are worth it,” the director said.
He added that comedy provides an opportunity to discuss sensitive subjects without making the storytelling unnecessarily heavy.
Produced by NKO Films and written by Angelica Quevedo, “He’s Dating a Boldstar” also features Aleck Bovick, Leandro Baldemor and Rob Sy, alongside Kolokoys TV, Happy Friend, Awut, Rugbudoy, Bonn Earl, Atha Quevedo and Mac Temones.
The film opens in cinemas on Oct. 28.
