Gerald Anderson makes producing debut, partners with Reality MM Studios

October 28 ------ A long-awaited collaboration between actor Gerald Anderson and producer Dondon Monteverde has finally come full circle. Reality MM Studios, co-founded by Monteverde and director Erik Matti, has officially partnered with Anderson’s production company, The Th3rd Floor Studios, marking his debut as a film producer.

The partnership, years in the making, reunites Anderson with Reality MM after their acclaimed work on “On The Job” in 2013. Their shared goal is to create more ambitious, high-quality Filipino stories for both local and global audiences.

“Gerald did a wonderful job with On The Job, and we wanted to do more projects with him. Our paths crossed again this time for ‘Buy Bust 2,’ and we talked about our shared vision for the industry — how we could help each other produce good, meaningful projects. This partnership has been a long time coming,” Monteverde recalled in a press conference.

Anderson, meanwhile, said the collaboration felt natural given their shared passion for storytelling and dedication to excellence. “I’m really excited for this partnership because I’ve seen their attention to detail. We had a month-long lock-in shoot in Zambales for ‘Buy Bust,’ and the set they built from scratch showed their commitment to quality filmmaking. That’s what we all want, especially for my first project as a producer,” he said.

‘Rekonek’

Their partnership’s first film, “Rekonek,” is an official entry to the 2025 Metro Manila Film Festival (MMFF). Directed by Jade Castro, the Christmas-themed film explores how Filipinos rediscover genuine human connection when the internet suddenly shuts down nationwide 10 days before Christmas. “It’s a beautiful, multi-narrative story. It asks — what happens to us if there’s no internet? There’s a story about a family, a married couple, and different people trying to reconnect. Many can relate because we’re all glued to our phones. We hope this movie reminds us of a time when we weren’t so distracted,” Anderson said.

Anderson has a dual role in the film, actor and co-producer. Joining him in the cast are Carmina Villarroel and Zoren Legaspi, along with their children Mavy and Cassy, Charlie Dizon, Andrea Brillantes, Gloria Diaz, and Donna Cariaga. “This is my first time producing a movie, and it’s a learning experience. It’s challenging because I’m doing three projects at the same time — ‘Sins of the Father,’ ‘Rekonek,’ and ‘Buy Bust 2.’ But I’m grateful. Producing is a different kind of challenge, and after 20 years in the industry, I want to give something back,” he added.

A film with purpose

Anderson said “Rekonek” reflects his belief that films should leave audiences with more than entertainment. “I always say, I hope audiences take something meaningful home — a bit of social awareness or reflection. When you leave the theater after watching ‘Rekonek,’ I hope you start asking questions about life, the internet, social media, family, and relationships. That’s what the film is really about — reconnection,” he said.

Monteverde praised Anderson’s energy and creativity, describing him as an engaged and insightful collaborator. “When we brainstorm, he brings a lot of great ideas. It’s refreshing to work with younger actors who contribute creatively. Gerald’s ideas are well thought out and polished. The timing is perfect because he’s also started directing. I’m really happy he’s now producing,” Monteverde said.

Monteverde added that the collaboration is all about keeping the industry alive through cooperation and innovation. “Look at producers like Mother Lily — even when movies don’t earn much, she keeps producing. That’s how we keep the industry going. I’m happy to have Gerald and Coco Martin as partners. It’s a happy time for the industry because we can create jobs and tell more stories together,” he said.

Anderson admitted that becoming a producer wasn’t part of his plan, but the opportunity felt right. “Honestly, I never planned to become a producer — just like I didn’t plan to direct. But I was given a chance to direct Sins of the Father, and it was a great experience. I like challenges, and I want to grow as an artist and as a person,” he enthused.

Source: manilatimes.net