Real Romance
Direk Real Florido shares insights on the film industry, love, and his upcoming film, Everything About My Wife, starring real-life couple Dennis Trillo and Jennylyn Mercado.
Words Art Plus Magazine
February 24, 2025
Direk Real Florido, a versatile filmmaker with an impressive career in the Philippine entertainment industry, has spent years honing his craft in both television and film. From humble beginnings as a production assistant to his current role as Chief Creative Officer at CreaZion Studios, Florido has made an undeniable mark on the industry. He shares his journey, creative process, and news on his latest film, Everything About My Wife.
Background in Film and TV
Direk Florido’s career in television and film spans decades, beginning when he was just 16 years old. His early work included roles as a production assistant and production manager for music videos, AVPs, and TV show segments. Florido’s formative years were spent working with GMA 7, where he created various shows, including the reality talent search Protege, which discovered stars like Ruru Madrid. He also directed dramas like Magpakailanman and Eat Bulaga Lenten Specials.
Today, Florido is the Chief Creative Officer of CreaZion Studios, a global production and distribution company based in the Philippines. His body of work includes award-winning films such as 1st Ko Si 3rd (2014) and Bakit Di Mo Sabihin? (2022), as well as producing critically acclaimed films like Iska (by Theodore Boborol) and Isang Himala (by Pepe Diokno).
Direk Real Florido
On Everything About My Wife
Florido’s latest film, Everything About My Wife, is a romantic comedy that explores the complexities of love and marriage. The film follows the story of Dom (played by Dennis Trillo) and Imo (Jennylyn Mercado), whose marriage becomes strained after seven years. Dom, unhappy with his marriage, enlists the help of notorious womanizer Miguel (Sam Milby) to seduce his wife. As the situation unravels, Dom realizes the mistake he’s made, especially when Miguel unexpectedly falls in love with Imo. The film highlights the emotional complexities of love, betrayal, and reconciliation.
What attracted Florido to this particular story was the unique premise of a man trying to have his wife “taken away”; by someone else. This concept captures the deep emotions and unacknowledged feelings that often exist in relationships. Florido’s exploration of marriage has been a consistent theme in his work, from 1st Ko Si 3rd to Bakit Di Mo Sabihin?
“Is it really about how they feel about each other, or are there more layers of this issue that we can discuss?” he asks. His curiosity about the intricacies of marriage is a theme he returns to time and time again, creating films that challenge conventional views on love.
Working with the Lead Actors
Direk Florido’s experience working with Jennylyn Mercado, Dennis Trillo, and Sam Milby was a highlight of the production. He describes the set atmosphere as positive and fun, thanks to the professionalism and chemistry of the lead actors. “When you work with professional and fun-loving actors like them, you know that your set will be filled with positive energy,” Florido shares.
Trillo’s quiet demeanor contrasted with Mercado’s vibrant energy, which added a dynamic balance to their performances. Florido recalls a memorable moment when Jennylyn danced a Latin ballroom routine while waiting for a scene to be filmed. “She never runs out of moments to radiate vibrant energy that everyone enjoys,” he says.
The real-life relationship between Dennis and Jennylyn added another layer of authenticity to their portrayal of a married couple. Florido notes that their natural chemistry on screen allowed him to focus on the deeper aspects of their characters. “You wouldn’t have to think about the chemistry because it just comes so naturally,” he says. Their personal experiences as a couple brought depth to their performances, making their characters’ emotional journey all the more compelling.
Florido highlights the importance of the supporting cast, including veteran actors like Nova Villa, Carmi Martin, and Romnick Sarmenta, who add layers of richness to the film’s themes of love, marriage, and personal growth.
The Enduring Popularity of Rom-Coms
Florido attributes the enduring popularity of the rom-com genre to the Filipino people’s deep-seated love for romance. “Romcom is more than just the popular actors or tandems; romance is deeply etched in our way of life,” he observes. Rom-coms offer an escape, allowing audiences to experience the joy and excitement of love, even if only for a short while.
Despite the challenges faced by the Philippine film industry, Florido remains optimistic about the future of local cinema. He believes that Filipinos will return to cinemas if the films offer more than just a basic viewing experience. “Even with the romcom genre, we aim to deliver quality films that resonate with the stories Filipinos have grown to love,” he says. By adding fresh twists and authentic storytelling, Florido believes that Filipino audiences will continue to support films that reflect their own lives and experiences.
Everything About My Wife is coming to cinemas on February 26.
