Award-winning actress Jodi Sta. Maria found an unexpected bonus during her preparation for the upcoming film ‘Midnight Girls’—she actually earned money while undergoing an immersive training experience in Japan.
Together with co-stars Sanya Lopez, Jane Oineza, and Loisa Andalio, Jodi participated in a unique immersion to authentically portray Filipina entertainers, commonly referred to as “Japayuki,” before filming began.
As part of their preparation, the actresses spent several nights working in an “omise” (bar) in Japan, where they experienced firsthand what it’s like to entertain customers.
“So, we spent parang three nights sa isang ‘omise’ kung saan kami nagtatrabaho,” Jodi shared during the film’s advance screening and mediacon.
What made the experience more realistic was that none of the customers knew they were actresses.
“Walang nakakaalam sa mga Japanese clients… ang alam lang nila, mga bagong salta na babae,” she said.
They followed the actual process entertainers go through—lining up and waiting to be chosen by clients, engaging in conversation, and performing upon request.
“Kailangan naming pumila at pipili ‘yung Hapon kung sino sa amin ang gusto niyang maka-table… kung sinabi nilang kumanta ka, kakanta ka. Kung papasayawin ka nila, sumayaw ka,” she added.
One memorable part of the immersion was performing on stage, where they received tips from customers.
“Du’n namin na-experience na ‘yung mga chopsticks, sinisingit nila… parang tip,” she recalled.
Thanks to those tips, Jodi was even able to save money during her stay.
“Dahil do’n sa immersion namin… one month akong hindi gumastos… So, kumita rin ako sa Japan,” she said with a laugh.
Beyond the immersion, Jodi also faced demanding scenes in the film, particularly the dance and performance sequences.
@lionheartv Ibinahagi ni Jodi Sta Maria PH ang kanyang naging karanasan sa isinagawang immersion sa Omise bilang paghahanda sa kanilang shoot para sa Midnight Girls. Alamin kung paano nakatulong ang karanasang ito upang mas mabigyang-buhay at lalim ang kanyang karakter sa pelikula. | Via Cassiopeia Janelle Calamaya #MidnightGirls #JodiStaMaria #LionhearTV #RAWRnation https://www.lionheartv.net/news @Jodi Sta.Maria
She admitted feeling nervous about these moments, even joking that she had to channel her inner “SexBomb dancer” to deliver convincingly.
At the heart of her role is Vicky, the “ate” of the group—a strong figure who carries emotional burdens while supporting others.
“She had to be strong… even in moments na she really wants to break down,” Jodi explained.
Directed by Irene Emma Villamor, ‘Midnight Girls’ was entirely shot in Nagoya, Japan.
The film follows four Filipina entertainers navigating life, friendship, and survival in a foreign land, shedding light on the realities and struggles of overseas workers.
The cast also includes Carmi Martin, Zaijian Jaranilla, and Miggy Jimenez, among others.
Midnight Girls opens in cinemas nationwide on May 13.
