Veteran Pinoy actors voice Korean film 'Picnic'

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Nathan Studios is back with "Picnic," another groundbreaking and moving film that will surely resonate with many Filipinos.

Directed by Kim Yong-gyun, "Picnic" was first released in South Korea and has now been reimagined by Nathan Studios as a Filipino-language movie.

Staying true to its commitment to challenging conventional norms in storytelling and content delivery, Nathan Studios selected "Picnic" as its Mother's Day 2025 presentation.

Nathan Studios’ Sylvia Sanchez (fourth from left) with the Filipino voice cast of ‘Picnic’ (from left) Ces Quesada, Fyang Smith, Nova Villa, JM Ibarra and Bodjie Pascua.

But rather than offering a straightforward localized version, Nathan Studios — led by President and CEO Ria Atayde and her team — decided to give it a distinctly Filipino flavor by assembling a talented intergenerational cast.

While specific plot details remain under wraps, Nathan Studios firmly believes in letting audiences experience a film's story without spoilers.

What can be said, however, is that "Picnic" revolves around themes deeply relevant to Filipino culture: aging, complicated family dynamics, friendship and the lifelong journey of motherhood.

The film's emotional beats are grounded in both nostalgia and reflection, offering viewers a heartfelt exploration of the past and the bonds that persist through time.

Taking on the role of Eun-sim is award-winning actress Ces Quesada, whose portrayal of the older version of the character is marked by quiet strength and vulnerability.

Meanwhile, early reviews of her voice acting call "Pinoy Big Brother: Gen 11" winner Fyang Smith — who plays the younger Eun-sim — a scene-stealer.

Opposite them is industry legend Nova Villa, who plays Geum-soon, Eun-sim's childhood best friend. This is considered one of Villa's most compelling performances — one that will surely melt the hearts of moviegoers.

Completing the film's central trio is acting legend Bodjie Pascua, who brilliantly breathes life into the character of the elder Tae-ho — a man whose long-buried emotions resurface in old age.

The younger Tae-ho is played by Smith's onscreen partner, JM Ibarra, adding depth and contrast to the character's journey.

"Picnic" stars South Korean superstars Na Moon-hee (Eun-sim), Kim Young-ok (Geum-soon) and Park Geun-hyung (Tae-ho). It was filmed primarily in Pyeongsan-ri, Namhae-gun — a quiet village in South Gyeongsang province — where lush visuals and serene rural landscapes mirror the introspective nature of the narrative.

With a modest production budget of 1.2 billion KRW ($911,000), the South Korean original surpassed box-office expectations, grossing over $2.2 million.

It held the top spot in South Korea's independent and art house box-office charts for two weeks and earned critical acclaim for its sensitive take on emotional, weighty subjects.

Notably, Park Geun-hyung earned a best supporting actor nomination at the Baeksang Arts Awards — a testament to the film's strong performances and emotional weight.

Both are retained in Nathan Studios' Filipino dub, which reflects the studio's evolving mission: to bring global stories home in a way that speaks directly to the Filipino heart.

To date, Nathan Studios has a sterling reputation for taking the road less traveled. Whether through genre-defying series, daring casting choices or unexpected storytelling directions, the company is never content with playing it safe.

With "Picnic," it once again delivers a surprising yet powerful offering that gently disrupts audiences' expectations of what a family movie should be.

While the Filipino-dubbed version does not tamper with the film's original story, it breathes new life into it by allowing some of the country's most accomplished actors to inhabit these complex roles.

The result is a viewing experience that feels simultaneously familiar and new, evoking the distinct emotional rhythms of Filipino life, from caring for elders to revisiting childhood memories and reevaluating lifelong friendships.

Nathan Studios affirms its belief in the power of storytelling to honor mothers and family in all their complexities.

The film doesn't present a sanitized version of motherhood or friendship; instead, it digs into the nuances, regrets and small moments that define a life shared with others.

More than just a tearjerker, "Picnic" is a reflective piece of cinema that asks viewers to look back, reach out and recognize the people who shaped their journey. It's a movie that lingers — not because of flashy twists or over-the-top drama — but because it connects through memory, honesty and emotional truth.

In a media landscape saturated with spectacle, "Picnic" dares to slow down, remember, and feel.

For screening schedules, follow @nathan.studios on Instagram and visit facebook.com/nathanstudiosinc.