MANILA — Netflix's latest offering, "Lolo and the Kid," starring veteran actor Joel Torre and the exceptionally talented 11-year-old Euwenn Mikael Aleta dives deep into the complexities of love, sacrifice, and familial bonds.

"Lolo and the Kid" tells the story of an unconventional yet profoundly touching relationship between a grandfather figure and a young boy.

Joel Torre, known for his versatile roles in Philippine cinema, delivers a performance that resonates deeply with viewers. Reflecting on the film's emotional impact, Torre shared, "The first screening we watched, we were together and Euwenn was crying. The film is very touching."

The film's strength lies in its simplicity, a quality that drew Torre to the project. "With the strength of the story and the script, you have to say yes. It's not that easy to tell a very simple story. Oh man, there's beauty in simplicity. And that's what latches on to the project," Torre explained.

Euwenn Mikael Aleta, despite his young age, brings a depth to his role that left even seasoned actors like Torre in awe. "This kid is so lovable, diba? He is. Oo. Parang mutant eh, you know? He is so talented," Torre remarked.

Aleta's journey into acting began when he was just a toddler, and his growth as an actor is evident in his portrayal of the Kid. "Mga two years, three years old pa lang ako na nag-acting na ako. Dati po kasi, nagsimula ako nagpapatawa lang. Tapos, habang kumalaki ako, nahahasa ako. E ngayon, eleven na ako, kaya marunong na po ako talaga mag-acting," Aleta shared.

The movie's narrative is a poignant exploration of love and letting go. Torre described it as "a very dysfunctional story that makes its own function. It's a different love affair between Lolo and the Kid. So, there's no attachment. May umbilical cord kami. If you love somebody, you have to set them free. So, that's what's heart-tugging."

Filming "Lolo and the Kid" was an adventure in itself, with memorable scenes shot at a carnival and the beach in Zambales. Aleta fondly recalled, "Yung memorable at favorite ko po yung last part nung movie. Tsaka yung sa beach. Kasi nag swimming ako doon sa Zambales."

Both Torre and Aleta have dreams that extend beyond the local film industry. Aleta aspires to make an international mark, a goal that Torre believes is within reach, especially with platforms like Netflix making global distribution possible. "Euwenn, Netflix is international." Torre affirmed.

The film's universal theme of family—by blood and by affinity—resonates with audiences everywhere. "A universal language in movies, in any story, is about family. So family, that's basically what keeps us together. This is a family story not by blood but by affinity. So it's a family love story," Torre emphasized.

Reflecting on his own journey and the magical world of filmmaking, Torre shared valuable advice for aspiring actors. "You have to love your work. The late Vic Silayan told me early in my career, Joel, you have to love your work because your work will love you back. Kung mahal mo, arugain mo yan. Take care of it and it will love you back."

"Lolo and the Kid" is more than just a film; it's a testament to the enduring power of love and the sacrifices we make for those we cherish. As viewers reach for tissues, the performances of Joel Torre and Euwenn Mikael Aleta ensure that this story will remain in their hearts long after the credits roll.

Also starring in “Lolo and the Kid” are JK Labajo, Iza Calzado, Meryll Soriano, Joem Bascon, Nico Antonio, Markki Stroem, Shaina Magdayao and Alfred Vargas, directed by Benedict Mique.

“Lolo and the Kid” is streaming on Netflix on August 7, 2024.

Joel Torre, Euwenn Mikael Aleta star in Netflix film 'Lolo and the Kid'

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