With its first three episodes gaining 1.3 million plus views since it dropped on Oxin Film’s YouTube Channel, the reign of Pinoy boy’s love drama continues with My Story.
Director Xion Lim’s My Story presents two pairs of actors namely the BL reliables Miko Gallardo and Teejay Marquez plus the fresh princes of Pinoy BL, Jericho Del Rosario and Hiro Shimoji.
The Gallardo and Marquez narrative focuses on the tandem of Filipino chefs working in Thailand, with Sky (Gallardo) doing his darn best to come to terms with and move forward move on from a failed long-distance relationship while Win (Marquez) is anxious and excited about what happens next and now to this rebound and not so groovy kind of love.
For the young masters Del Rosario and Shimoji, what we get to see is sugar spice and all that is nice, pleasantries and surprises that bring kilig and confusion, and all the game changer feels and bringer of the ouchies that is about to unravel and for them to experience.
There is no denying that the Sky and Win pairing is enjoyable to watch. However, it is the Zeke and Fifth slowly but surely blossoming of fine pink romance that brings not only curiosity but hooks BL aficionados and its new audiences.
Director Lim explains why the young masters bagged their respective roles of Fifth (for Hiro) and Zeke (for Jericho): “I want someone who truly fits the part of two college students who are polar opposites. ‘Yung maangas one and a softie person. The actors must be comfortable with their own skin, willing to expose their emotions, be vulnerable, and has this honest connection. With Jericho and Hiro, they have it. There is something magical about them. On the set, and behind the scenes, they are natural. And I am happy to report na kahit pa parang sub-unit sila here, so many are adore them.”
The innocence and purity of their hearts, combined with the unpredictable nature of their fiery passion, drive Zeke and Fifth followers crazy with kilig.
Zeke and Fifth’s initial meeting was filled with anger, disgust, and arrogance, yet their on-screen chemistry and sparks were palpable, exceeding the usual dose.
Jericho on playing Zeke: “It’s a great opportunity for a newcomer like me and I’m being professional about it. I enjoy this ride of a lifetime as Zeke, and having Fifth as a constant in his life makes it even better.”
When asked if he is prepared to face criticism or stereotypes for his role in BL, Hiro responds, “No matter what role I portray, people will always have something to say about you. It’s time to break the stigma that if you’re a man who acts in a BL, it means you’re gay. That kind of thinking is outdated.”
He continues, “I enjoy playing the role of Fifth because he is a well-crafted character who speaks for many people, not just those of my age group, but for everyone.”
The reality of many watching their episodes and the sudden popularity and rise of followers on their social media accounts, the twosome are amused, amazed, and grateful.
Since they filmed, and have finished the shooting of the episodes, Shimoji shares: Hindi pa kami nag-aaway o nagkatampuhan. Mas naging deeper pa ang friendship namin.”
Well, the closeness and fondness cannot be concealed and denied, it is more than evident that Jericho and Hiro enjoy each other company, touch-feely yes but not going overboard. Both are courageous with their reply of “Yes,” when asked if it is possible for them to be in love with one another outside of their characters. Such bravery for these young men to express that.
With a narrative that brings the romance and contemporary realities of a different kind of love, and actors who bring the emotional truth to their respective characters, My Story proves that the reign and reach of the Pinoy boy’s love drama continues.
My Story, airs every Saturday night, on Oxin Films YouTube Channel.