Zanjoe Marudo and Ogie Diaz at the press conference of How to Get Away From My Toxic Family. SUPPLIED

Filipino actor Zanjoe Marudo and veteran talent manager-producer Ogie Diaz are headed to the UAE this weekend for the Dubai and Abu Dhabi premieres of their new film How to Get Away From My Toxic Family. The film will premiere in Dubai on Saturday (June 28) at Star Cinema, Al Ghurair Mall, with screening times at 6pm and 8pm, each followed by a meet-and-greet session with Marudo and Diaz. The Abu Dhabi premiere is scheduled for Sunday (June 29) at the Star Cinema, Al Wahda Mall, also at 6pm and 8pm, with meet-and-greet sessions for each screening. Tickets are priced at Dh125 at the cinema counter or Dh115 when purchased directly from Maybush Productions, the organizer of the UAE premiere. The film is produced by Diaz and distributed in the UAE by Townson Square For Entertainment.

OFW story with a timely message

How to Get Away From My Toxic Family centers on Arsenio, played by Zanjoe Marudo, who is forced to confront the emotional and psychological toll of dealing with a toxic family. The film explores the struggles of choosing between personal dreams and familial obligations—a scenario that resonates strongly with Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) and returning Filipinos. “ can relate to it — even balikbayans. That even when they’re abroad, they still think of their families in the Philippines,” said Marudo. The movie first premiered in Los Angeles last May and is part of a global screening tour that includes Western Australia (June 29), Japan (July 6), Houston, San Diego, and San Francisco. Its Philippine premiere is set for July 30, which Diaz called a "homecoming." In a press conference, Marudo said the film carries an important message about setting boundaries—even within families. “These toxic family values have been part of Filipino culture. But one should learn how to set boundaries, even if family is involved,” Marudo said. “I guess this is my advice — if you earn a lot, then keep giving to your family. But if your own future gets affected, it is already wrong.” Diaz added that the film is especially relevant to younger generations. “If you can’t take it anymore, it’s time to leave. A person’s mental health didn’t get much attention back then. But now, mental health issues are being prioritized,” Diaz said. “If it’s not helpful to your mental health, it’s time to let go to take care of ourselves.” The film is written by John Bedia and directed by Lawrence Fajardo, with Nonie Buencamino in a special appearance. The ensemble cast also includes Susan Africa, Richard Quan, Kim Rodriguez, Lesley Lina, Keena Pineda, and Juharra Asayo. Filming took place at Clark Airport and in Tondo, Manila, with Marudo calling the project his big-screen comeback after a two-year break. “I didn’t have to go home anymore just to think about it. I know the story will affect many of our fellow Filipinos. This is also one way to help stop the toxic family culture here in the Philippines,” he said. Diaz previously produced Two Love You in 2019. How to Get Away From My Toxic Family is his third film production under KreativDen. Marudo, meanwhile, is set to appear next in the upcoming film Nang Mapagod Na Si Kamatayan, where he stars alongside Daniel Padilla. CAM/Expat Media
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