Hong Kong serves as the backdrop for the first international film of KD Estrada and Alexa Ilacad.
Launched in the Philippines last December, "Toss Coin" is one of the three microfilms in the Hong Kong in the Lens by Asian Directors project, which is presented by CJ ENM and supported by the Hong Kong Tourism Board.
Directed by Cathy Garcia-Sampana, it tells the story of Kiko (Estrada) and Pia (Ilacad) as they play hide and seek with fate around Hong Kong. It is available on Viu as well as on ABS-CBN Star Cinema's YouTube channel. Check it out below:
If you enjoyed this microfilm, take your "Toss Coin" experience a notch higher by visiting Estrada and Ilacad's shooting locations on your next Hong Kong trip.
Here's a quick guide:
SAI KUNG
Several key scenes in "Toss Coin," including the opening, were shot in the district of Sai Kung, a 30-minute drive from the city center. It has beautiful murals everywhere you look, as well as a picturesque view of Hong Kong's landscape.
"When I first came over here, I fell in love with the place," said director Garcia-Sampana. "Their artworks are so beautiful."
Also featured in "Toss Coin" is the Sai Kung branch of the Hong Kong-based cafe chain The Coffee Academics. The establishment is covered in murals, making it ideal for both coffee lovers and those looking for Instagram-worthy photos.
HONG KONG MUSEUM OF ART, OPERA GALLERY
The Hong Kong Museum of Art (HKMoA), situated by the famous Victoria Harbour, is the first public art museum in the city. Established in 1962, it houses over 18,800 traditional and contemporary pieces.
Opera Gallery, meanwhile, is home to works by emerging and international artists. It is one of the galleries along Hollywood Road at Central.
M+
M+ at the West Kowloon Cultural District (WKCD) is considered one of the largest museums of modern and contemporary art in the world. According to Estrada, this is his favorite out of all their shooting locations for "Toss Coin."
"I love M+, it's so nice there," he said. "It's a place full of inspiration, and it's really encouraging for us."
M+ has thousands of works from 777 artists coming from 35 countries. It is one of the many sights around the newly developed WKCD, which would take at least a day to explore.
PMQ
Formerly known as the Hollywood Road Police Married Quarters, PMQ is a revitalized historical site that houses a variety of design and creative enterprises.
As shown in "Toss Coin," it is a spot for interactive events and installations. Workshops by local artisans are also held here, so make sure to get a handmade souvenir when you visit.
CAUSEWAY BAY
The final scene in "Toss Coin" is shot in Causeway Bay, a popular spot among locals and tourists in Hong Kong.
The area boasts of street markets and food stalls on one end, and luxury boutiques and upscale restaurants on the other.