Creating an original game for the E-sports barkada movie ‘GG (Good Game)’
Written by: Nazamel Tabares
Publication: Pelikula Mania
Date published: January 19, 2024
With the movie industry today finding a hard time to lure in audiences, it’s risky for producers to go all-out with their films. But Mediaworks, together with Cignal Entertainment and Create Cinema, is gambling for its E-sports barkada movie, GG (Good Game) starring Donny Pangilinan.
GG or Good Game centers around Seth (Donny), a determined aspiring gamer who immerses himself in the world of video games while navigating the various challenges within his own family.
The production specifically made an original game called Requiem for the characters in the film to play.
We asked producer Pamela Reyes for some details on the film:
How was it like creating a new game specifically for GG The Movie?
1. Since it has never been done before in the Philippines, we were faced with a gargantuan task to create an original game for the film GG because we want to paint an authentic portrayal of the world of esports. We onboarded expert gaming consultants from Metasports (a gaming & esports media house + agency), game animation by Robosheep Studios and visual effects by MalasMalas Studios. We had to figure out a lot of nitty gritty details which was both complex but exciting. Thankfully the whole team was gungho in piecing the puzzle pieces together for a whole year. We grew to learn and appreciate the world of esports more after making this film. We hope to start a conversation about esports and the huge tight nit community behind it.
Can you share the gameplay of Requiem?
2. Requiem is a 5v5 first person shooter game. Whoever eliminates the opposing team first wins.
Can you say that the gameplay of Requiem parallels the struggles of the characters in GG The Movie? How?
3. The in-game player in the game world of Requiem is loosely an extension of the physical self in the real world. It’s a team game which means the characters have to figure out a melody and momentum within the team.
What’s the biggest challenge of mounting GG The Movie?
4. The biggest challenge was fulfilling the vision of what “GG” is and can be. We want to create a film that is fresh and new, globally competitive and entertaining but authentic and well-researched. This kind of dream has no clear path where we can just follow a pattern to success. We just truly believe in doing the best in every aspect: script development, kind and supportive production shoot for the team, work with the best creatives, and allot ample time to craft and refine the film.
Esports Barkadas on Focus
Delve into the riveting realm of competitive barkada gaming like never before, all set against the backdrop of a challenging family environment.
Headlined by sought-after actor Donny Pangilinan — who currently leads the hit Kapamilya series “Can’t Buy Me Love” opposite the other half of the #DonBelle tandem, Belle Mariano — this marks the debut of Mediaworks in the filmmaking arena featuring Donny in a whole new character stretching his acting abilities even further.
“GG” writer-director Prime Cruz infuses his touch, drawing from his acclaimed portfolio that includes titles like “Sleepless” (2015); “Ang Manananggal sa Unit 23B” (2016), which garnered him the Best Director award at the QCinema Independent Film Festival; and “Isa Pa with Feelings” (2019).
Steering this groundbreaking venture is the talented Hannah Pangilinan, making her mark as a creative producer and co-writer.
Mother-and-son Tandem
What amplifies the excitement surrounding this new release is the authentic casting choice, as Donny’s real-life mother, Maricel Laxa-Pangilinan, portrays his mother in “GG The Movie.” This genuine on-screen dynamic adds a layer of authenticity and emotional depth to their performances, promising audiences an even more compelling viewing experience.
Reflecting on his involvement in this adrenaline-filled project, Donny shares, “It’s a thrilling feeling, knowing that something in the works for quite some time will now be shown nationwide. ‘GG’ is a project that hits very close to home, mainly because I have the honor of acting alongside my mother. The esports aspect, as well as having the Tokwa’t Bad Bois (TBB) barkada make this a dream collaboration for me and all involved.”
Donny’s on-screen synergy with Maricel further elevates the emotional resonance of GG. She states, “Welcoming the New Year with ‘GG’ feels like an answered prayer. Working alongside my son, Donny, and our Executive Producer like Anthony Pangilinan and Hannah has been a privilege.”
She acknowledges the invaluable collaboration with esteemed partners such as Create Cinema, Media Quest, Star Cinema, Star Magic, their director Prime Cruz, among others. Maricel also emphasizes, “GG or Good Game is not just for families; it’s for the esports community as well, guided by our friends of Metasports, our gaming consultants, along with the Philippines Esports Organization.”
Other Cast Members
Baron Geisler is Coach Kurt, an optimistic gaming coach of the “Tokwa’t Bad Bois.” He dreams of fulfilling his childhood dream of being a winner through Seth’s team.
• Gold Aceron plays Trickz, a street-gang member who looks at pro-gaming as a chance for a better life.
• Johannes Risler gives life to Kev, an awkward wanna-be gaming vlogger and streamer, who joins TBB for the boys and the hangs.
• Igi Boy Flores portrays Joseph (also known as ExtraRice), who is always the hungry hype-boy of TBB. He is also Kev’s “best frenemy.”
• Kaleb Ong is Santino, the TBB co-leader who wants nothing else but to be on the winning team — whatever it might take.
• Icebox — mysterious and legendary skilled masked gamer whose identity is their skill.
• Boots Anson-Roa and Ronaldo Valdez are the grandparents of our lead character. The movie has been dedicated to the loving memory of Ronaldo Valdez.
GG is blessed to be supported by amazing cameos including Kuya Kim Atienza, Bigboy Cheng, Ragnarok Legend Jake San Diego, Jake Ejercito, Nicole Borromeo, Anthony Pangilinan, and John Arcilla. Gaming industry practitioners also participated to add authenticity to the esports project.
Multi-awarded singer Moira dela Torre performs the film’s theme song — a special treat only to be experienced when the movie rolls out in theaters January 24.
Core Values
This groundbreaking film is anchored by core values of friendship and partnership, respect, innovation, and teamwork (sportsmanship). Furthermore, the project aligns with pivotal objectives: to honor gamers and the gaming industry, produce a world-class production, elevate Philippine industry standards, and bridge familial divides, especially concerning gaming discussions.
Behind the Lens
Director Prime’s personal affinity for gaming resonates deeply, stating, “Being a gamer myself, I immediately said yes to the project. Combining my passions for gaming and filmmaking is a chance of a lifetime.”
“GG” is written and directed by Prime Cruz. Hannah Pangilinan serves as co-writer and creative producer, Elaine Lozano as the line producer, and Create Cinema as the producer. The story concept came from Zach Aquino.
This movie is produced by Mediaworks, Cignal Entertainment, and Create Cinema, in collaboration with Smart, Predator Gaming, Acer, Rudy Project, Volvo, and Chatime Philippines. Star Cinema partners as GG’s marketing and distribution arm.
The advocacy partner is Called to Rescue Philippines, a non-governmental organization (NGO) committed to anti-trafficking and anti-abuse efforts for our country’s youth.
Support for Philippine Cinema
As the curtains rise on January 24, Mediaworks invites audiences to continue rallying behind Filipino cinema, just as the success of the latest edition of the Metro Manila Film Festival (MMFF) sparked renewed interest and passion for moviegoing. Mabuhay ang Pelikulang Pilipino!
G na this 1.24.24 with “GG (Good Game): The Movie” in cinemas nationwide!
GG or Good Game centers around Seth (Donny), a determined aspiring gamer who immerses himself in the world of video games while navigating the various challenges within his own family.
The production specifically made an original game called Requiem for the characters in the film to play.
We asked producer Pamela Reyes for some details on the film:
How was it like creating a new game specifically for GG The Movie?
1. Since it has never been done before in the Philippines, we were faced with a gargantuan task to create an original game for the film GG because we want to paint an authentic portrayal of the world of esports. We onboarded expert gaming consultants from Metasports (a gaming & esports media house + agency), game animation by Robosheep Studios and visual effects by MalasMalas Studios. We had to figure out a lot of nitty gritty details which was both complex but exciting. Thankfully the whole team was gungho in piecing the puzzle pieces together for a whole year. We grew to learn and appreciate the world of esports more after making this film. We hope to start a conversation about esports and the huge tight nit community behind it.
Can you share the gameplay of Requiem?
2. Requiem is a 5v5 first person shooter game. Whoever eliminates the opposing team first wins.
Can you say that the gameplay of Requiem parallels the struggles of the characters in GG The Movie? How?
3. The in-game player in the game world of Requiem is loosely an extension of the physical self in the real world. It’s a team game which means the characters have to figure out a melody and momentum within the team.
What’s the biggest challenge of mounting GG The Movie?
4. The biggest challenge was fulfilling the vision of what “GG” is and can be. We want to create a film that is fresh and new, globally competitive and entertaining but authentic and well-researched. This kind of dream has no clear path where we can just follow a pattern to success. We just truly believe in doing the best in every aspect: script development, kind and supportive production shoot for the team, work with the best creatives, and allot ample time to craft and refine the film.
Esports Barkadas on Focus
Delve into the riveting realm of competitive barkada gaming like never before, all set against the backdrop of a challenging family environment.
Headlined by sought-after actor Donny Pangilinan — who currently leads the hit Kapamilya series “Can’t Buy Me Love” opposite the other half of the #DonBelle tandem, Belle Mariano — this marks the debut of Mediaworks in the filmmaking arena featuring Donny in a whole new character stretching his acting abilities even further.
“GG” writer-director Prime Cruz infuses his touch, drawing from his acclaimed portfolio that includes titles like “Sleepless” (2015); “Ang Manananggal sa Unit 23B” (2016), which garnered him the Best Director award at the QCinema Independent Film Festival; and “Isa Pa with Feelings” (2019).
Steering this groundbreaking venture is the talented Hannah Pangilinan, making her mark as a creative producer and co-writer.
Mother-and-son Tandem
What amplifies the excitement surrounding this new release is the authentic casting choice, as Donny’s real-life mother, Maricel Laxa-Pangilinan, portrays his mother in “GG The Movie.” This genuine on-screen dynamic adds a layer of authenticity and emotional depth to their performances, promising audiences an even more compelling viewing experience.
Reflecting on his involvement in this adrenaline-filled project, Donny shares, “It’s a thrilling feeling, knowing that something in the works for quite some time will now be shown nationwide. ‘GG’ is a project that hits very close to home, mainly because I have the honor of acting alongside my mother. The esports aspect, as well as having the Tokwa’t Bad Bois (TBB) barkada make this a dream collaboration for me and all involved.”
Donny’s on-screen synergy with Maricel further elevates the emotional resonance of GG. She states, “Welcoming the New Year with ‘GG’ feels like an answered prayer. Working alongside my son, Donny, and our Executive Producer like Anthony Pangilinan and Hannah has been a privilege.”
She acknowledges the invaluable collaboration with esteemed partners such as Create Cinema, Media Quest, Star Cinema, Star Magic, their director Prime Cruz, among others. Maricel also emphasizes, “GG or Good Game is not just for families; it’s for the esports community as well, guided by our friends of Metasports, our gaming consultants, along with the Philippines Esports Organization.”
Other Cast Members
Baron Geisler is Coach Kurt, an optimistic gaming coach of the “Tokwa’t Bad Bois.” He dreams of fulfilling his childhood dream of being a winner through Seth’s team.
• Gold Aceron plays Trickz, a street-gang member who looks at pro-gaming as a chance for a better life.
• Johannes Risler gives life to Kev, an awkward wanna-be gaming vlogger and streamer, who joins TBB for the boys and the hangs.
• Igi Boy Flores portrays Joseph (also known as ExtraRice), who is always the hungry hype-boy of TBB. He is also Kev’s “best frenemy.”
• Kaleb Ong is Santino, the TBB co-leader who wants nothing else but to be on the winning team — whatever it might take.
• Icebox — mysterious and legendary skilled masked gamer whose identity is their skill.
• Boots Anson-Roa and Ronaldo Valdez are the grandparents of our lead character. The movie has been dedicated to the loving memory of Ronaldo Valdez.
GG is blessed to be supported by amazing cameos including Kuya Kim Atienza, Bigboy Cheng, Ragnarok Legend Jake San Diego, Jake Ejercito, Nicole Borromeo, Anthony Pangilinan, and John Arcilla. Gaming industry practitioners also participated to add authenticity to the esports project.
Multi-awarded singer Moira dela Torre performs the film’s theme song — a special treat only to be experienced when the movie rolls out in theaters January 24.
Core Values
This groundbreaking film is anchored by core values of friendship and partnership, respect, innovation, and teamwork (sportsmanship). Furthermore, the project aligns with pivotal objectives: to honor gamers and the gaming industry, produce a world-class production, elevate Philippine industry standards, and bridge familial divides, especially concerning gaming discussions.
Behind the Lens
Director Prime’s personal affinity for gaming resonates deeply, stating, “Being a gamer myself, I immediately said yes to the project. Combining my passions for gaming and filmmaking is a chance of a lifetime.”
“GG” is written and directed by Prime Cruz. Hannah Pangilinan serves as co-writer and creative producer, Elaine Lozano as the line producer, and Create Cinema as the producer. The story concept came from Zach Aquino.
This movie is produced by Mediaworks, Cignal Entertainment, and Create Cinema, in collaboration with Smart, Predator Gaming, Acer, Rudy Project, Volvo, and Chatime Philippines. Star Cinema partners as GG’s marketing and distribution arm.
The advocacy partner is Called to Rescue Philippines, a non-governmental organization (NGO) committed to anti-trafficking and anti-abuse efforts for our country’s youth.
Support for Philippine Cinema
As the curtains rise on January 24, Mediaworks invites audiences to continue rallying behind Filipino cinema, just as the success of the latest edition of the Metro Manila Film Festival (MMFF) sparked renewed interest and passion for moviegoing. Mabuhay ang Pelikulang Pilipino!
G na this 1.24.24 with “GG (Good Game): The Movie” in cinemas nationwide!