Director Benedict Mique Impressed by David Licauco's Range

GMA Pictures is set to release its Holy Week-themed film, "Samahan ng mga Makasalanan," on April 19, offering an unconventional take on the traditional redemption arc by blending satire and spirituality.

- By NATHALIE M. TOMADA

Directed by Benedict Mique, who previously helmed the streaming hit dramedy "Lolo and the Kid," the film stars David Licauco as Deacon Sam, a young clergy member assigned to the "sinful" town of Sto. Kristo.

The comedy-drama follows Deacon Sam's attempt to reform and steer the townspeople away from vices by forming a group called the "Samahan ng Makasalanan." Along the way, the story explores themes of faith, second chances, and inner transformation.

"This is a funny, actually outrageous, heartwarming, and full of lessons na story," said direk Benedict during an interview with broadsheet editors. "Pang-barkada, pampamilya, pang mag-asawa."

According to the director, the film is about change and starting over. "And that's the reason why it's coming out during Holy Week," he added.

The director shared that the story idea came from a real-life incident.

"Actually, may pinapagawa akong apartment tapos yung tao ko dun, sabi nila sir 'di ako makapasok Saturday kasi may church group yung asawa ko tsaka ako.

"Sabi ko, bakit lahat ng church group meron? You have Couples for Christ, etc., bakit walang ano — yung 'Samahan ng mga Makasalanan,' di ba? Parang from there, (I thought) ang saya nung ganung story. Then I pitched it (to the producers GMA Pictures and former Ilocos Sur Gov. Chavit Singson) and I was surprised that they liked it. 'Sige gawin natin' kasi rare ma-approve yung mga ganitong concept na comedy, puro tayo love story."

While David is best known for dramatic roles and heartthrob (a.k.a. Pambansang Ginoo) status, the director said that his lead actor proved he could handle comedy with surprising ease.