by Rea Gierran
MANILA – Cinema One, a pioneer in the cable industry is set to offer a new flavor on Philippine Cable TV by producing their very first TV series entitled “Single\Single”. The project was done in partnership with another media giant, The Philippine Star.
“Single\Single” tackles relevant issues for the urban singles living in a complicated, modern world. Longtime Kapamilya actress Shaina Magdayao and Matteo Guidicelli are teaming up for the first time to give life to the roles of Joee and Joey, two single strangers who are forced to share an apartment for convenience.
Matteo plays the role of Joey, a young man seeking financial independence from his wealthy family, while Shaina takes on the character of Joee, a young professional who is enforced to live with Matteo to make ends meet.
Also joining the cast are Cherie Gil who will be portraying as Matteo’s single mom; acclaimed Cinema One Originals actress Anna Luna; and theater actor Brian Sy. Mara Lopez and Matt Daclan, indie favorites, will also be joining the team in guest roles.
“Single\Single” is under the direction of international award-winning independent cinema director, Pepe Diokno. Palanca winner Lilit Reyes serves as the series’ writer while Bianca Balbuena, film producer of the ultimate hugot movie “That Thing Called Tadhana” produces the series. Diokno, known for his much-admired works Engkwentro and Above the Clouds explains his experience in directing for cable TV. “In terms of content, we’re freer to discuss sensitive issues,” he says.
As the story zeroes in depicting the lives of millennials and the YOLO philosophy, the freedom in content that cable TV offers was helpful in making the story realistic and relatable. Lucien Dy Tioco expresses excitement in the partnership as it is The Philippine Star’s first time to collaborate to produce content for TV.
The series combines the power of cable and print media to talk to Filipino millennials about how to cope as a single individual. Detailed discussions about financial management will be provided in the Philippine Star’s Business Lifestyle section by wealth management expert and inspirational speaker, Francis Kong, each week.
“Single\Single” pilots this August 29 on Cinema One. It will run for 13 episodes every Saturday at 8PM with replays on Wednesdays at 8:30PM and Sundays at 10PM.
