Baron Geisler dedicates new action film to people with autism

October 19 ------ Compelling actor Baron Geisler returns to the spotlight in “The Deli­very Rider,” a Netflix-bound action-drama he describes as a “love letter” to individuals under the autism spectrum and their families. Directed by Lester Pimentel Ong and produced by Studio Three Sixty, the film blends high-octane action with emotionally groun­ded storytelling inspired by real experiences of inclusion, resilience, and love.

Geisler plays Santo, a deliveryman with functional autism who becomes entangled in a dangerous conspiracy while trying to protect a young boy portrayed by Euwenn Mikaell. Jake Cuenca also joins the cast as Roden, the conflicted son of a crime boss. “We made this film with respect, care, and love. It’s not a caricature or stereotype. It’s real, it’s grounded. And for us, it’s a love letter — a gift to parents, to people, and most especially to those on the spectrum,” Geisler said during the film’s media conference.

For the actor, the project is deeply personal. His daughter, Talitha, is on the spectrum, which made his portrayal of Santo especially meaningful. “This isn’t just an action movie — it’s very personal,” Geisler shared. “They don’t need understanding; they just need to be loved. They are gifted. They are light. They are joy and peace in this world.”

Director Ong, known for the hit series “Incognito,” also brings a personal connection to the story. He also has a son with autism, and his experience no doubt adds further depth to the film’s perspective and authenticity. In “The Delivery Rider,” Santo is depicted as a man trained in martial arts by his father and naturally gifted in combat. Despite his skills, he avoids conflict and chooses peace until circumstances force him to fight for what he believes is right. “What I learned from my character is that even if the world is full of anger, you can still choose to be kind. And that, for me, is real strength, especially in this time,” Geisler reflected.

To deliver the film’s required intensity, the cast underwent rigorous physical preparation. “We trained three to four hours a day for almost a year. From start to finish, [the film] is action-packed. There’s even a one-versus-one-hundred fight scene. It’s entertaining and heartwarming,” Geisler added.

Cuenca, who plays Roden, said he immediately accepted the role after learning he’d be working with Geisler and Ong. “When they offered this to me, of course, I grabbed the opportunity because I’d be working with such an amazing actor, Baron Geisler, and one of my favorite directors, Direk Lester,” Cuenca said. He also spoke about the bond he and Geisler formed on set. “When we finished filming, mutual respect was given. It’s like when you talk about fighting — you share something intimate inside that ring. I feel like Baron and I shared something intimate inside this movie.”

Also in the ensemble are Jennica Garcia, Malou de Guzman, Soliman Cruz, Joem Bascon, Richard Quan, and JC Alcantara.

A recipient of the 2024 CreatePHFilms Funding Program grant from the Film Development Council of the Philippines, The Delivery Rider not only showcases Filipino talent in action cinema but also pushes forward an important advocacy via its meaningful representation of persons with autism. The film premieres on Netflix across the Asia-Pacific and Middle East regions on October 23.

Source: manilatimes.net