At the media conference of the film Hold Me Close, an official entry to the 2024 Metro Manila Film Festival, starring the tandem of Carlo Aquino and Julia Barretto, the young actress remained humble when asked of the possibility of being nominated alongside seasoned actresses Vilma Santos and Judy Ann Santos whose films are also showing at the 50th MMFF. 

“I don’t know. I am not sure how to answer that question. Number one, sobrang iniidolo ko silang dalawa (I look up to them and to be with them in this year’s MMFF is an honor). So, even to mention my name beside theirs is medyo nakakadiyahe siya. But I think this alone, this film making it to MMFF on their 50th year and just being included is already such a great honor,” Julia said.

Her leading man, Carlo Aquino, supported Julia’s performance in the film.

“Sobrang husay kaya ni Juju dito (She’s very good in this film), ‘di ba direk?” the actor said during the romcom’s grand media conference held in Quezon City.

Filmed in Japan, Hold Me Close marks the second time Julia and Carlo are sharing the big screen following their 2022 movie, Expensive Candy, also helmed by Jason Paul Laxamana. 

The director explained why they shot the film overseas.

“Dati pa kasi mayroon nang project ang Japan na nagbibigay sila ng film grant sa mga gusto mag shoot sa certain areas sa country nila (There’s a film grant program in that area in Japan where we shot the film). Ngayon nga nadagdag na kailangan mo na mag apply para ma approve ka kasi marami na ang gusto mag shoot doon,” Laxamana said. 

While Expensive Candy tackled more daring themes, Julia and Carlo will surely tug our heartstrings in Hold Me Close, further proving their versatility as actors. And with the recent success of Barretto’s romance movie with Joshua Garcia, Un/happy For You, movie fans can expect another compelling performance from her.

Hold Me Close also marks a much-anticipated MMFF return for both stars. Barretto’s last appearance in the festival was in 2016 with Vince and Kath and James, while Aquino’s was the 2012 entry Shake, Rattle and Roll XIV.

Laxamana is no stranger to the festival either, having competed last year with the action-adventure epic Penduko. He’s also known for his successful romantic dramas including 100 Tula Para Kay Stella and Just a Stranger.

Hold Me Close opens in cinemas nationwide on Christmas Day.