The much-anticipated romantic movie Spring in Prague premiered on May 28 at Uptown Cinema, Bonifacio Global City, drawing an audience of celebrities and film enthusiasts alike. The star-studded event featured lead actor Paolo Gumabao, producer Atty. Ferdinand Topacio, and director Lester Dimaranan, all celebrating a film that transcends a simple love story to weave together international romance and cultural diplomacy.
Produced by Borracho Films and scripted by renowned screenwriter Eric Ramos, Spring in Prague centers on a Filipino resort owner, played by Gumabao, who falls for a Czech tourist, portrayed by Sara Sandeva. Their summer romance blossoms into a transcontinental journey when the Filipino protagonist travels to Prague to explore whether their bond was more than just a fleeting holiday affair. The narrative elegantly captures the essence of a love story movie with heartfelt emotion and relatable characters.
Beyond its romantic plot, the movie holds profound diplomatic importance. Filmed on location in both the Philippines and the Czech Republic, its release coincides with the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two countries. The production team commemorated this milestone with a courtesy visit to Ambassador Eduardo Martin R. Meñez at the Philippine Embassy in Prague during the final days of filming in January 2024.
Executive producer Topacio describes the film as “a romantic comedy with depth and historical allusions.” He adds, “It’s a love story, yes, but it’s also a celebration of the enduring friendship between two nations,” reflecting how Spring in Prague merges cinematic storytelling with the subtleties of international relations.
Making her Filipino film debut, Czech actress Sara Sandeva brought an authentic cross-cultural presence to the screen. She shared her admiration for the warmth of the Filipino people, a sentiment that echoes the film’s broader message about shared human connection despite cultural differences.
Under the direction of Lester Dimaranan, known for works such as Nelia and Mamasapano, the movie shines with lush cinematography by Paolo Magsino and the skilled production oversight of line producer Juvz Tesalona. Supporting roles by Marco Gomez, Elena Koziova, Ynah Zimmerman, Keahnna Reyes, Tori Topacio, and Esel Ponce add depth to the film’s ensemble cast.
For Paolo Gumabao, Spring in Prague represents a personal and professional milestone: his first European experience and first international leading role. “It’s such good fortune to have Prague as my introduction to Europe, and to do it for a film that bridges nations,” Gumabao remarked during the premiere.
As a romance movie with both charm and purpose, Spring in Prague exemplifies how the film industry can tell stories that resonate beyond borders, blending love and diplomacy in a narrative that celebrates cultural connection.
