- New breed of teen stars give life to iWant’s coming-of-age fantasy series ‘Spirits Reawaken’
- “Spirits Reawaken” called “innovative,” sparks nostalgia among netizens
Six ordinary teenagers will find themselves on an extraordinary mission to save the earth while navigating the twists and turns of growing up in iWant’s fantasy series “Spirits Awaken,” the much-anticipated reboot of the iconic 2004 Kapamilya series “Spirits.”
“Spirits Reawaken,” which streamed on Saturday (November 17) on ABS-CBN’s new streaming service iWant, features some of the country’s most promising young stars, including Grae Fernandez, Jairus Aquino, Bugoy Cariño, Kira Balinger, Chantal Videla, and Patrick Quiroz. Fans can already download the new iWant app on iOS and Android or access iWant through the web (iwant.ph) and register for free.
Directed by Topel Lee and set in the 90s, the digital series will introduce six teenagers Red (Grae), Jesse (Jairus), Nato (Bugoy), Maya (Kira), Gabbie (Chantal), and Lloyd (Patrick) – the newest guardians of the earth who are yet unaware of their powers. Their powers include telekinesis (Red), electrokinesis (Jesse), ability to communicate with aliens (Nato), precognition (Maya), and bilocation (Lloyd).
While trying to come to terms with their extraordinary abilities and their bigger-than-life task to save the world against the threat of alien invasion, the teens will get to discover more of themselves and go through the ups and downs of friendship, romance, and their family relationships.
Shown in 2004, the original “Spirits” was created and helmed by the multi-awarded director Chito Roño, who is also behind some of the most iconic Filipino movies, including “Bata, bata… Paano Ka Ginawa,” “Feng Shui,” and “Dekada ‘70.”
Reception to the trailer has been overwhelmingly positive, with netizens praising its cinematography and concept, and calling it an innovative move from ABS-CBN.
“I felt goosebumps when the soundtrack came in. As per the trailer, it is a totally different story from the ‘Spirits’ of Maja, and I think that’s a smart move. I’m loving how ABS-CBN is really making an effort to innovate the viewing choices and practices of Filipinos,” YouTube user Nicko Quinolayo also commented.
“Nice one ABS-CBN! This is what I call innovation. I hope it is 45 mins to 60 mins per episode and 10 to 15 episodes per season! This is the type of project that gives exposure to all their talents,” another YouTube user Francis John Conde said.
“I really wanted to pitch this remake even I did not have any right, so the present generation can watch this. Someone has already thought of it, and finally did it! I am so happy. The exclusive programs on iWant are so good. I am so proud,” said Facebook user Sheng Kuo.
YouTube user Lhar Anthony Moreno Ursais also said, “Astig, promise… International ang dating. Pa english subtitles niyo ito for upcoming international fans.”
Fans can already download the new iWant app on iOS and Android or access iWant through the web (iwant.ph) and register for free. Those who already have the iWant TV app on their devices simply need to update to the new version to steam ‘Spirits Reawaken’.
For updates, like www.facebook.com/iWant, and follow @iwant on Twitter and @iwantofficial on Instagram, and subscribe to www.youtube.com/iWantPH.
