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Asian cinema’s rising stars light up Fire and Ice Media’s 2025 slate
Fire and Ice Media’s ambitious 2025 lineup includes groundbreaking films by celebrated Asian directors, reflecting a diverse and culturally rich repertoire.
A visionary slate by Brillante Mendoza and Samuel Jamier
The 2025 production slate of the Philippines’ buzzing label Fire and Ice Media boasts an eclectic mix of films that promises to capture global attention. This dynamic lineup includes the latest works from renowned Asian director Brillante Mendoza and the much-anticipated directorial debut of former New York Asian Film Festival director Samuel Jamier.
Mendoza’s film “Cocoon” promises to be a deeply personal exploration of familial bonds and cultural intersections. Written by Rocky Fajardo and Angel Mendoza, the story follows a Filipino American veterinarian and her African American fiancé. French producer Raphael Gindre joins the project, bringing his expertise evident in films like “Funny Birds” and “We the Coyotes,” which premiered at Cannes’ ACID in 2018. This touching narrative delves into love and identity, mirroring Mendoza’s own experiences as a father.
Unearthing narratives of wartime alliances
“Huntress on the Plains” marks Jamier’s entry into the directorial arena. Set during WWII in Leyte, the film narrates the tale of a young Filipino woman, Mayari, who forges an alliance with a Korean sniper. Together, they aim to liberate women from a Japanese camp. Jamier describes the film as a natural progression from showcasing others’ visions to crafting his narratives, blending the raw tension of war with emotional depth.
“Huntress” is more than a wartime story; it’s a poignant testament to Asia’s complex history and national identity, illustrating the power of local narratives to captivate worldwide audiences.
Showcasing the mystique of ASMR and supernatural horrors
Director Will Fredo returns with “Mindscape Manila,” a thriller set in the enigmatic world of Autonomous Sensory Meridian Response (ASMR). The movie explores the dark, hidden reality behind a young ASMR streamer’s life. Liza Diño-Seguerra, who plays a producer’s role, expresses her fascination with the whisper fetish culture and its captivating potential. This collaboration, co-produced by U.S. company Fusee, aims to reintroduce Fredo to the international stage with sharp strategy and positioning.
Adding a chilling twist to the slate, “Red Thread” intertwines the lives of a ghost-seeing child, a radio host, and a serial killer. Directed by Vietnamese American filmmaker Ham Tran, known for “The Anniversary,” this supernatural horror promises to meld traditional storytelling with eerie encounters. Tran’s rich background in films like “Journey from the Fall” and “Maika,” which premiered at Sundance, fortifies this project with a solid foundation in horror. The production team includes notable figures like Anderson Le, Mai Tuan Anh, and prolific Singapore producer Tan Si En, promising a multinational production aimed to begin shooting in March 2025.
Exploring identity and societal norms
Philippines entertainment icon Ice Seguerra steps into the director’s shoes for the first time with “Transfatherhood”. The film, written by Diño and directed by Seguerra, traces the journey of Sam, a queer singer-songwriter, who unexpectedly becomes a father. According to Seguerra, the film is a reflection of his own path to self-acceptance. It challenges conventional perceptions of the ‘ideal family’ and presents a heartfelt narrative on breaking societal molds.
“Transfatherhood” was presented at the EAVE Producers Workshop and stands as a vibrant expression of the trans community’s stories and struggles.
A critical look at media and fame
“Karaoke News” wraps up the slate with a sharp critique of media and celebrity culture. Directed by John Paul Su, an alumnus of the Disney/ABC directing program and Berlinale Talents Tokyo, the crime thriller tells the story of a former child celebrity whose quest for fame spirals into a media circus. The film is now in pre-production, promising a timely narrative that dissects the sensationalism of contemporary media. Editor Manet Dayrit and Eight Horses Production of the U.S. co-produce this insightful thriller.
Bridging cultures and voices
Headed by Liza Diño-Seguerra, Fire and Ice Media commits to elevating Asian voices and bridging cinematic divides. The 2025 departure marks a transformative year aiming for cross-cultural impact with international resonances. The company’s collaborative initiatives have already seen success with projects such as Nicole Midori Woodford’s “Last Shadow at First Light” and Urara Matsubayashi’s “Blue Imagine.” This shift signals the dawn of Asian films breaking linguistic and cultural barriers, expanding their global reach.
As the 2025 slate edges closer, Fire and Ice Media continues to illuminate diverse stories, connecting with audiences worldwide. Follow the latest updates and join the conversation on social media to stay tuned on exciting Asian cinema developments.
