Grammy Winner Jhett Tolentino’s ‘Asian Persuasion’ Rom-Com Lands Spring North America Release (EXCLUSIVE)
Scatena & Rosner Films is rolling out Grammy and Tony winner Jhett Tolentino‘s film directorial debut “Asian Persuasion” across North American theaters, with a digital/VOD bow to follow. The romantic comedy, penned by Mike Ang, toplines “Hook” alum Dante Basco and Filipino star KC Concepcion (“Boy Golden: Shoot to Kill”).
The film, which snagged the Audience Award at the 2023 Soho International Film Festival, follows an underachiever who concocts an elaborate scheme to dodge alimony payments to his fashion-exec ex-wife. The ensemble cast features “Bling Empire” breakout Kevin Kreider, Paolo Montalban (“Cinderella”), Geneva Carr (“It’s Complicated”), Scarlet Sherr (“Hustlers”), Celia Au (“Lodge 49”), and newcomer Jax Bacani.
The R-rated comedy drama will hit major markets including Los Angeles, Seattle, Houston, Dallas, San Francisco, Las Vegas, Chicago, Toronto, Honolulu, and Washington D.C. through Seismic Releasing’s theatrical partnership.
Behind the camera, Tolentino assembled a crew including cinematographer Andrea Walter (“The Fabulous Filipino Brothers”), production and costume designer Sheena Alexis (“Caretakers”), and composer Eunike Tanzil (“Be Somebody”). The production notably brought together creatives from 21 Asian countries, showcasing talent from Bangladesh to Vietnam.
“It has been a long time coming,” Tolentino said. “I am beyond grateful that this humble gem will finally be available to wider audiences.” The helmer, who shot the film during the pandemic, added: “It is consequential that I throw my hat in directing, rising from my decade-long commercial experience in producing both in theater and films. Especially now when democracy is tested, it is my simple way of showing resistance – standing firm for the rights of the minorities with the hope of restoring those rights by creating art that can change generations to be kind and empathize with people who are considered second-class citizens.”
“As an Asian American growing up here in the United States, I struggled to find an accurate reflection of myself in the movies or TV shows of the time,” added Ang. “’Asian Persuasion’ gave me the chance to tell a quintessentially American love story through the lens of the Asian-American experience. The very existence of this independent film is a testament to the power of community and authenticity.”
Scatena & Rosner’s VP of Distribution Zach Stampone is bullish on the film’s prospects: “‘Asian Persuasion’ is relatable, funny, and heartwarming. Jhett Tolentino and Mike Ang’s storytelling shines in every scene, blending passion, creativity, rich Filipino cultural influences, and universal themes everyone can connect to.”
The feature was produced under Jhett Tolentino Productions banner, with Tolentino and Ang serving as producers. Following its Soho fest premiere, the film made the rounds at Richmond International Film Festival and closed the San Diego Filipino Film Festival.
“Asian Persuasion” hits theaters March 21, with digital and VOD platforms following on May 27.
Tolentino has produced 19 stage productions on and off Broadway, including “Vanya and Sonia and Masha and Spike,” starring Sigourney Weaver, and “A Raisin in the Sun,” with Denzel Washington. As a music producer, he oversaw the cast album recording of “The Color Purple,” featuring Cynthia Erivo, Jennifer Hudson and Danielle Brooks. His film production credits include “Life Is What You Make It” in 2017 and Isabel Sandoval’s “Lingua Franca,” which premiered at the 2019 Venice Film Festival.
