Say hello to 901 Studios, the fresh new player shaking up the film scene. This team of three producers is quickly becoming a game changer, proving that authentic Filipino stories are ready for the world stage. They’ve already snagged spots at some of the biggest film festivals globally, successfully achieving Filipino representation on an international level. And they’re just getting started.
From Different Paths to a Shared Vision
The studio was founded by a trio of Leo Liban, Carlos Ortiz, and Jon Galvez who each came from different professional worlds—one from advertising, another from production, and a third from an entirely different industry. “We saw something special in the dynamic,” says co-founder Leo Liban. “We didn’t want to miss the chance to grow it into something more. That’s how 901 Studios was born”. Their mission is simple: to be “The Hub of Global Filipino Stories”.
Festival Favorites and Heartfelt Films
901 Studios isn’t just making movies; they’re crafting stories with a beating heart. Their films have been a hit with both audiences and critics, earning them some serious street cred at prestigious festivals.
● AGAPITO: Directed by Arvin Belarmino and Kyla Danelle Romero, this film starring Andre Miguel and Nour Hooshmand made waves at major festivals like Cannes and the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF). The team also dedicates the film’s success to cast member Joel Garcia, who sadly passed away recently.
● LIP SYNC ASSASSIN: This film, directed by Jon Galvez and starring drag queen star Precious Paula Nicole and Star Magic actor Argel Saycon and will premiere at the CinePride Film Festival in Los Angeles and Sinag Maynila Film Festival in September.
● AT LEAST WE HAD THIS MOMENT: Directed by Josh De Vera, this movie, top-billed by Raven Rigor and Andre Miguel, was an official pick for the Queer East Film Festival in London, the Korea Queer Film Festival, and the Hong Kong LGBTQIA+ Film Festival.
What makes 901 Studios different? It’s their unique approach. They’re not just looking for “perfect” work; they’re looking for that special spark and a willingness to grow. They believe the most valuable thing they can give a filmmaker isn’t just money or resources—it’s trust. It’s about letting creators know someone has their back so they can take creative risks and do their best work.
What’s Next? Get Ready for a Major Comeback!
901 Studios is already gearing up for its most ambitious project yet: the highly anticipated sequel to the 2017 cult classic, Bar Boys. The new film, Bar Boys: After School, is currently in production, and the hype is already real among fans.
Keep an eye out for more from 901 Studios as they continue to “strike a balance between supporting other filmmakers and taking our creative leaps”. They’re a new force in the industry, and you won’t want to miss what they do next.
