Maricel Soriano, Piolo Pascual make Star Cinema comeback in family tearjerker

Twelve years after her last appearance, the iconic Diamond Star Maricel Soriano is set to captivate audiences once again in a Star Cinema film, making a much-anticipated return alongside sought-after leading man Piolo Pascual. Their new project, a family tearjerker titled "Meet, Greet & Bye," promises an emotional journey that confronts the universal truth of losing those we hold dearest.

In this poignant film, Soriano takes on the role of Baby Facundo, a matriarch whose illness prompts her children to unite and fulfill her heartfelt wish: to meet her favorite K-drama star. This dream comes with a crucial condition – she must agree to seek medical treatment afterward. Piolo Pascual, also returning to Star Cinema after his 2017 film "Last Night," portrays Tupe, Baby's eldest son, who shoulders the responsibility of keeping the family together amidst their mother's challenging condition. Rounding out the family are Gen Z stars Joshua Garcia as Brad, Belle Mariano as Geri, and Juan Karlos Labajo as Leo, all contributing to a narrative rich in familial struggles and the bravery required to face inevitable goodbyes. The film is helmed by multi-awarded director Cathy Garcia-Sampana, known for her box-office hits like "Hello, Love, Again" and "The Hows of Us."

For Piolo, this comeback to Star Cinema feels like a homecoming to his "family" – the very studio that nurtured his talent and provided his initial big break. He expressed profound gratitude for the opportunity to be part of a film that authentically portrays the complexities and deep affection within family relationships, noting Star Cinema's trusted reputation for such dramas.

Maricel Soriano, too, was drawn to the project not just by its compelling story but also by the caliber of her co-stars. She praised their dedication and artistry, remarking on the genuine talent and kindness she experienced on set, emphasizing how "very, very real" the narrative felt to her.

The experience of working with industry legends like Soriano and Pascual was a first for young stars Belle Mariano and Juan Karlos Labajo. Despite the generational difference, the cast forged a deep familial bond off-screen, making the filming process both easier and more meaningful.

Labajo fondly recalled the set as a "home filled with laughter and warmth," admitting to feeling "separation anxiety" now that filming has wrapped. Mariano echoed this sentiment, sharing how Maricel's maternal warmth quickly dispelled her initial apprehension, leading her to affectionately call Soriano "mama." This authentic connection, Mariano believes, was crucial in delivering their characters' emotions convincingly on screen.

While the off-screen dynamic was light and joyful, the cast acknowledged the heavy emotional weight of their roles, as the story resonates deeply with the painful reality of losing a loved one. Piolo Pascual reflected on the film hitting "close to home," particularly for Filipino families, highlighting the universal heartbreak associated with familial loss.

The film's emotional core stems from a very personal place for its writers, Jumbo Albano and Patrick Valencia. They revealed that "Meet, Greet & Bye" was inspired by their greatest fear – losing their parents – describing the film as a "love letter" to their own parents, a sentiment echoed by their director towards her children.

The writers intentionally crafted the story to be universally relatable, understanding that the fear of losing a loved one transcends individual experiences. Maricel Soriano, a revered mother figure in the industry, hopes the movie will serve as a powerful reminder to audiences about the irreplaceable importance of parents and the necessity of constantly expressing love and appreciation to them.

"Meet, Greet & Bye" is slated for a worldwide premiere beginning November 12 under Star Cinema, with details regarding international screening territories to be announced soon.