‘Fruitcake’ — a medley of stories and actors

Fruitcake can be argued as the quintessential Christmas present in the Philippines — it’s sweet, nutty and it’s accessible for last-minute gift-giving.

A whiff of the cake and a bite of its moist texture bring memories of Christmases gone by, making it a beloved holiday tradition.

But perhaps the most interesting part of fruitcake is how despite its assortment of ingredients — candied fruits, nuts and liquor, among others — it somehow comes together harmoniously.

The riot cast of upcoming barkada movie, ‘Fruitcake.’ INSTAGRAM PHOTOS/CORNERSTONESTUDIOSPH 

Drawing inspiration from the complex yet delightful harmony of this festive cake is the upcoming big screen offering, “Fruitcake.”

“Fruitcake” — a Cornerstone Studios and Create Cinema Inc. production — is a multi-character comedy drama film that portrays the intertwining stories of Filipinos from all walks of life in modern-day Metro Manila.

At the lowest and unluckiest point in their lives, their destinies converge on one fateful LRT train ride.

Much like the fruitcake, the movie also features an interesting mix of talents from different networks and different media platforms.

There’s actors and actresses Joshua Garcia, Empoy Marquez, Heaven Peralejo, KD Estrada, Jane Oineza, Enchong Dee, Ria Atayde, Dominic Ochoa, Kaila Estrada, Karina Bautista, Alex Diaz, Markus Paterson, Noel Comia Jr., Kat Galang, Donna Cariaga; social media stars Queenay and MacoyDubs; and stand-up comedian Victor Anastacio and Red Oller

Empoy Marquez and Jane Oineza 

“Fruitcake” begins with Cardo (Garcia), a hopeless romantic dancer who lives in the province. He braves the big city to find corporate work and chase after his ex-girlfriend, Diane (Peralejo).

Little did he know that Diane has become the mistress of Senator Sam (Ochoa).

Another storyline will introduce the audience to Ospret (Anastacio), an online English teacher by day and stand-up comedian at night, who struggles with his inner battles as he is burdened with taking care of his lazy young brother (Comia) and his father who has dementia.

Jolo (KD Estrada), a naive geeky student who lives with his mom, attempts to purchase illegal substance to please his crush at an upcoming house party.

Chad (Diaz) is a handsome and popular student activist leader who tries to uncover his true sexual orientation as he juggles his feeling for his guy best friend and his social media star girlfriend.

Finally, there’s Jenny (Atayde), a female train driver nearing her mid-30s, who deals with her unexpected pregnancy by a reckless security guard and her priest brother who is against abortion.

Ria Atayde and Joshua Garcia 

From the onset, it seems that the mixed bag of stories and characters can be a challenge for the audience to follow through, but director and writer Joel Ferrer — who wrote the script for four years — promises their stories are all tied.

“The characters are equally important to each other. Think of the characters as a Jenga puzzle — every piece is important to keep the tower standing. It was challenging, but in doing so, I believe the audience will be able to identify with the varied characters. They will find their representation,” director Ferrer said.

As for the actors, they were simply happy to do a barkada (clique) movie, a first for many of the participating artists.

“It was fun to do the character although I have to admit that comedy is not my typical genre,” dramatic actor Garcia said.

“I was doing this movie while also doing TV drama, so I saw it as a break from my heavy scenes. I would look forward to go on the set and just laugh,” he added.

Atayde, meanwhile, said she’s looking forward to finally seeing the movie they shot almost a year ago.

“Personally, I’m excited to see how everybody’s story would be shown. I only knew my character, my script, so I think it’ll be interesting to see all of it come together.”

“Fruitcake” does not have a release date yet, as the production team is eager for it to be considered for the upcoming Metro Manila Film Festival.

Regardless of when it eventually graces the screens, one thing is certain, as Marquez aptly puts it, “We have different flavors to offer here. It’s a joyful experience, filled with gifts — just like a fruitcake.”