MANILA -- At first glance, one might mistake the new Netflix film “A Journey" for your typical feel-good movie about friends and their escapades, but as the narrative unfolds, it’s a film that delves deep into the essence of friendship and the ticking clock of life’s fleeting moments.

The story follows the life of Shane, portrayed by Kaye Abad, who is grappling with a terminal illness and in the face of her mortality, creates a "magic list.” 

“Meron akong sakit dito, and bago ako sana mawala, meron akong bucket list na gusto kong gawin," Abad explained.

The cast's chemistry is undeniable, a factor that director RC Delos Reyes attributes to the genuine friendship of Abad, Paolo Contis and Patrick Garcia on- and off-screen. The film cleverly intertwines nostalgia, particularly for those who grew up in the 90s. 

“A Journey” features the reunion of Abad, Garcia and Contis, the stars of the hit '90s ABS-CBN series “Tabing Ilog,” a deliberate choice that adds a layer of earnestness to the narrative. 

“From the very beginning, more than anything, ang powerful ng friendship nila eh. So, dapat 'yung kukunin mo dito are totoong friends sa totoong buhay,” delos Reyes said.

Stars and director of the film "The Journey."

The film also serves as a reminder not to take time for granted, a message that resonates deeply with the three stars. 

"Kasi nandyan lang naman sila, 'yung mga mahal natin sa buhay. Pero 'pag napanood mo 'yung pelikula, ang importante ay dapat sila 'yung inuuna natin," Abad passionately expresses.

Each cast member reveals a personal connection to the story they helped bring to life. 

"Ako, dedicated ko ito to my mom," Contis revealed, reflecting on the personal significance of the film's message. "Yung mom ko kasi is bedridden already because she suffered a stroke twice already. Something na I wish na nagawa ko before with her noong okay pa siya. So now, kumbaga I'm still hoping na maka-isang gala pa kami talaga together."

Abad got teary eyed when she said that she dedicates the film to her late father. "Ako, to my dad. Kasi sana nakita niya 'to na nakagawa ako ng film for Netflix. Kasi daddy ko 'yung nag-push sa akin before na mag-audition for a film. So, I think dream niya talaga maging artista ako. It was never my dream na maging artista. Siya 'yung nagsabi, mag-audition ako. 'Yun lang talaga, na sana nakita niya pa in itong film ko, sana in heaven.”

Garcia said: "I dedicate this to my family. Especially to my young kids, because when I was shooting, my children would always wonder kung bakit may nagpapa-picture sa akin. They would ask: Why are they taking pictures with you daddy? Never kasi nila napanood yung mga movies ko noon. So I dedicate this to my kids.”

"A Journey" is not just a film but an experience that prompts introspection and cherishing the moments we have with those we hold dear. In the end, it's not the destination or the journey itself that matters most, but rather the people we share it with.  

“A Journey” is now streaming on Netflix.

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