Philippines-Shot Film ‘The Last Resort’ Hires ‘Legally Blonde’ Writer Karen McCullah, Exec-Produced By Manuel V. Pangilinan

EXCLUSIVE: Asia Pacific Films (APF) announced that it will produce and finance romantic comedy The Last Resort (working title), with 10 Things I Hate About You and Legally Blonde screenwriter Karen McCullah attached to the project.

Set to begin production in the Philippines in early 2025, the film is executive produced by a group led by APF chairman and Filipino billionaire Manuel V. Pangilinan, and produced by Ernesto “Bong” Sta. Maria Jr. and RJ Collins ( True Memoirs of an International Assassin , The Wrath of Becky ). Simon Heo and Akshay Mehta serve as co-producers.

The Last Resort follows a hotel executive who is sent to scout a new resort location in the Philippines. She becomes captivated by the breathtaking scenery and the warmth of its people — and also meets Ben, a charming expatriate charter pilot.

The production company said that casting and search for the film’s director is currently underway, which will consider both foreign and Filipino talents.

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“I’m excited to experience the place I was born and represent the culture and beauty of the Philippines on the screen,” McCullah said. “I’m also thrilled to be working with this great team of filmmakers on such a special project.”

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McCullah was born in the Philippines and grew up in the U.S. She has also penned screenplays for She’s the Man and The House Bunny .

Producers Sta. Maria Jr. and Collins added: “We are incredibly excited to work with Karen to bring this original story to life. The beauty of the Philippines is awe-inspiring and setting a romantic-comedy against the backdrop of the magnificent landscapes of our country will bring a truly cinematic experience to the screen.”

The deal was negotiated by Glenn Feig of Reder & Feig LLP on behalf of the filmmakers, as well as Seth Jaret of Jaret Entertainment and Robert Benun of BenunLaw on behalf of Karen McCullah.

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