Hong Kong-based ACT3 and Philippine production company Blackops Studios Asia have launched their five-film slate partnership with Lotus, an international action thriller to be directed by Filipino filmmaker Pedring Lopez. The project, introduced to buyers and distributors at the Cannes Film Market, is set to begin principal photography in Manila from September through October, with additional scenes planned in Brazil.
The film features an international ensemble led by Cuba Gooding Jr., Luke Ford, Keith Duffy and multimedia artist Qymira. Also joining the cast are Cristian Lavin and Brazilian actor Alberto Cowboy. Gooding Jr., known for Jerry Maguire, said the project marked his first major shoot in the Philippines and Southeast Asia, praising the energy of Manila and the film’s “raw, dangerous and global” vision. Ford said the production’s grounded, unpredictable tone and the contrast between Manila and Brazil made the story feel both intimate and cinematic. Qymira, who previously appeared in Lopez’s Shadow Transit, said the film felt especially personal because of its connection to Brazil.
Pedring Lopez co-wrote the screenplay with longtime collaborator Rex Lopez and is producing alongside Rex Lopez and Maia Yambao-Lopez. Leslie Loh serves as executive producer for ACT3. The production will also feature stunt and action coordination by Filipino-American choreographer and producer Sonny Sison, working with local crew members and an international stunt team from the U.S. and Hong Kong. Cinematography will be handled by Noel Teehankee, with crew members drawn from the Philippines, Hong Kong and Brazil. Additional Filipino casting is still underway.
Lopez said Lotus is designed for a global audience while remaining rooted in the energy and chaos of Southeast Asia and Latin America. He described the film as dangerous, emotional and alive, with an immersive action style that throws viewers directly into its world.
Lotus is the first title under the ACT3–Blackops Studios Asia multi-year agreement to produce five films together. Their next major project, the China-set action epic A Thread of Steel, is currently slated to shoot in 2028.
