Andrea Brillantes, JC Santos, and Anthony Jennings Headline Upcoming Revenge Film ‘Laya’

A gripping story of revenge, forgiveness, and second chances is set to hit Philippine cinemas this November 25, as Laya, the upcoming film written and directed by acclaimed filmmaker Sigrid Andrea Bernardo, brings together Andrea Brillantes, JC Santos, and Anthony Jennings.

Set in a quiet seaside town known for its whale shark encounters, the film follows Sab (Andrea Brillantes), who arrives with a mission to seek revenge against Tuki (JC Santos), a reclusive former convict she holds responsible for her father’s death.

Having spent 20 years in prison and living with a rare skin condition, Tuki struggles with isolation and rejection from the community.

However, as Sab gradually becomes part of Tuki’s life, she begins to see beyond the image of the man she has long considered a monster. Faced with an unexpected sense of compassion, she must choose between carrying out her plan for vengeance and breaking free from the cycle of violence that has defined their lives.

Presented by REIN Entertainment and the Film Development Council of the Philippines (CreatePHFilms), Laya explores themes that go beyond revenge. For director Sigrid, the film is ultimately a story about acceptance, redemption, and the possibility of starting over.

Sigrid draws a parallel between Tuki and the whale shark, describing both as creatures that are often misunderstood despite their beauty and majesty. Living with ichthyosis vulgaris, Tuki bears visible reminders of his past while navigating the challenges of rebuilding his life.

“Tuki’s skin serves as a powerful reminder of how our identities are shaped by our experiences and how others perceive us. After being released from prison, Tuki seeks solace and a chance to redefine himself, hoping to be accepted for who he is, despite his past,” she added.

At its heart, Laya tells the story of a man longing for acceptance and the opportunity to begin again. Through Tuki’s journey, the film encourages audiences to look beyond appearances, embrace their own scars, and recognize that change is possible.

As he disappears into the ocean, leaving his past behind, his story serves as a reminder that finding peace sometimes means letting go of everything we once knew.

Meanwhile, Metro previously spoke with Anthony Jennings in June, when the actor shared his experience filming Laya in Oslob, Cebu. One of his most memorable moments was encountering whale sharks for the first time.

“Masaya ‘yung shoot kasi first time ko makakita ng whale shark eh. Alam mo ‘yun, na sobrang laki. Kala ko, hindi ako pangungunahan ng takot pero, ‘pag medyo malapit na pala siya sa’yo, tapos sa ilalim ng tubig, medyo nakaka-praning pala kasi madilim ‘yung dagat at sobrang laki ng whale shark,” Anthony shared with Metro.

The actor also praised Sigrid’s distinct creative vision, expressing his excitement to see the finished film. “Iba rin si Direk Sigrid eh. Meron din siya sariling vision. So, astig ‘yung show na ‘yun. Gusto ko na rin mapanood kasi maganda ‘yung show, maganda ‘yung pelikula kasi psychological siya.”

Lead photos by BJ Pascual, Stephen Capuchino, and @j.c.santos