A film centered about e-sports gaming is finally hitting the theaters in the Philippines, a first in the country.

The movie ‘Good Game,’ directed by Prime Cruz, marks Star Cinema’s debut distribution release for the first quarter of 2024. The storyline, led by Donny portraying the character Seth, explores the vibrant e-gaming landscape. As Seth immerses himself in the competitive gaming realm, the movie revolves around his discovery of camaraderie with fellow gamers. Together, they assist him in navigating through a series of challenges and triumphs throughout his journey.

Co-produced by the lead actor of ‘Good Game,’ Donny Pangilinan, the film achieves a noteworthy milestone as it features his first project with his mother, Maricel Laxa-Pangilinan. The family’s involvement goes beyond Donny’s performance, with his mother taking a hand-on role in the film, and his sister and father contributing to its co-production. The cast also includes seasoned actors such as Boot Anson Roa, Baron Geisler, Christian Vasquez and the late Ronaldo Valdez.

Playing in the role of Seth, Donny had to bleach his hair for the whole filming of the show, he told reporters. He also mentioned that he had to spray his hair back to black every event so it would not be too noticeable if he was filming something new.

Driven by a primary motivation to shed light on the gaming industry in the country and reshape public perceptions, he expressed profound respect for the gaming community. They intend to be the voice for the local gaming community especially the stereotypes casted upon them are rampant. 

“It’s really a real profession that shouldn’t be taken lightly, and sobrang saludo ako sainyo that’s why we really made sure, like they said, to always have our gaming consultants on set,” Donny mentioned.

The team behind the creation of this film is driven by a profound desire to dispel negative stereotypes surrounding the gaming community. Their primary motive goes beyond mere storytelling; it’s a conscious effort to present the vibrant and dynamic life within the gaming scene authentically. Acknowledging the global phenomenon of gaming competitions and recognizing gaming as a legitimate sport on various levels, the team is committed to showcasing the richness and diversity that exists within this community.

In a world where misconceptions often overshadow the reality of the gaming culture, the team aims to be a catalyst for change, portraying gamers not as stereotypes but as individuals with passion, skill, and a shared love for the competitive spirit of gaming. By highlighting the global reach and competitive nature of gaming, the film seeks to contribute to a broader understanding of the gaming community, fostering appreciation for the dedication and talent that thrive within it.

Beyond the surface, the team has immersed themselves in the gaming culture, going beyond the superficial portrayal to truly understand the intricacies of this world. They have delved into the unique jargon, the nuances of gameplay, and the distinctive lifestyle that defines a gamer. By embedding themselves in the scene, the team ensures an authentic representation that resonates with the gaming community, acknowledging their language and rituals with a level of detail that goes beyond the mere visual aesthetics.

This immersive approach is more than a stylistic choice; it reflects a genuine effort to bridge the gap between the gaming community and the broader audience. By understanding the subtleties and intricacies of how gamers operate, the team aims to break down stereotypes and showcase the human aspect of gaming – the camaraderie, the passion, and the sense of community that often go unnoticed in mainstream narratives.

In essence, the team’s dedication to portraying the gaming community in a positive light transcends the confines of filmmaking. It is a conscious effort to contribute to a cultural shift, challenging preconceived notions and offering a more nuanced and accurate representation of the gaming world. By embracing the global scope of gaming competitions and recognizing them as legitimate sports, the team seeks to elevate the status of gamers, highlighting their achievements and fostering a sense of pride within the community.

As the film unfolds, it becomes a vehicle for storytelling that not only entertains but also educates and advocates for the gaming community. Through their efforts, the team hopes to create a cinematic experience that resonates with both gamers and non-gamers alike, fostering a greater appreciation for the diverse and thriving culture that exists within the gaming world. In doing so, they contribute to a narrative that goes beyond stereotypes, acknowledging the vitality and authenticity that define the gaming community on a global scale. 

“We really took into heart that we had to portray actual gamers and… those who were on set that a lot are gamers and streamers, sobrang parang nagging experience na hindi ko makakalimutan ever”, he aded 

The twist of fate surrounding the exclusion of ‘Good Game’ from the final entries of the 49th Metro Manila Film Festival is perceived by the team as a fortuitous development rather than a setback. In embracing this unexpected turn, the team discerns a unique opportunity that could potentially elevate the film’s impact and reception. Contrary to conventional expectations, the decision to schedule the film for release two to three weeks after the festival is not seen as a missed opportunity but rather a strategic move aimed at offering audiences a fresh and distinctive viewing experience.

The team’s perspective on the fortuity of this situation revolves around their belief in the benefits of a post-festival release. Rather than being constrained by the festival’s schedule, they see an advantageous position in providing audiences with a breather, allowing them to digest the festival entries before delving into ‘Good Game.’ This deliberate spacing between the festival and the film’s release is perceived as an opportunity to stand out, capturing the attention of viewers who may be seeking a different cinematic experience after the festival craze has subsided.

‘Good Game’ is scheduled to be released in cinemas nationwide on January 24.