Netflix has purchased the Asia Pacific distribution rights to the film “Crosspoint” at the recent Asian Contents & Film Market in Busan, South Korea. The co-production between the Philippines and Japan stars prominent actors from both countries and tells a compelling story that spans their nations.
“Crosspoint” features Carlo Aquino, a renowned Filipino actor, and Emmy nominee Hira Takehiro of Japan. It follows Manuel Hidalgo, a former famous Filipino actor struggling in his career who relocates to Japan. He works performing illegally in Filipino pubs to earn money. His path crosses with Shigeru, a bankrupt Japanese construction manager in his 50s. Their difficult circumstances lead them to team up to hunt a serial killer for the reward, setting up a tense drama exploring moral complex themes.
Fire and Ice Media brokered the deal between Netflix and the film’s producers. Liza Diño-Seguerra of Fire and Ice said acquiring the rights for a major platform like Netflix was a milestone for the company. She noted their first experience at ACFM was productive, with numerous meetings and potential deals for other titles.
The talents of Aquino and Takehiro in “Crosspoint” factored into Netflix’s interest in the film. Aquino has won awards for acting in the Philippines. Takehiro’s recent Emmy nod for the show “Shogun” adds prestige. Fire and Ice also represented other titles at ACFM, like the Brillante Mendoza film “Motherland” about a controversial 2015 Philippines operation.
Streaming services are increasingly important in content distribution. Diño-Seguerra sees demand among distributors for horror films. With fewer cinema visits, even in South Korea, adaptability is key as viewers shift to streaming. The deal underscores Netflix’s growing influence across Asia, as companies adjust strategies to sell content in this evolving landscape.
