Pinoy BLs emerged as a credible genre in the 2020s. Battling some fierce competition with groundbreaking web series like “Gameboys The Series”, “Hello Stranger”, “Quaranthings” and “Like in the Movies”, the show that caught everyone’s attention was “Ben X Jim”. Starring a rustic cast, the coming of age romance helmed by Filipino Director, Easy Ferrer won worldwide appreciation and was hailed as one of the best scripted Pinoy BLs in recent times. As a screenwriter and director, he has worked on several projects like- Finding You, The Missing and B X J Forever. Currently working on his new teenage love story “The Day I Loved You”, Mr. Ferrer joined us for a conversation to talk about this upcoming show, its unique casting and the thought process behind the making of each drama!

1) You have worked as a screenwriter, casting director and director. Did you always aspire to become a filmmaker? Who has been your biggest inspiration?

Ever since I was a child, it has been my dream to tell stories through visuals. I have been writing scripts and directing stage plays since high school. I grew up watching movies in the cinemas with my family, and they are my fondest childhood memories. I wanted to become a filmmaker. It is my dream.

2) “Ben X Jim” was one of the most ambitious projects released during a time when the Pinoy BL industry was slowly evolving. How was the experience of working on this show?

It was an exhilarating ride. Until now, I still believe that “Ben X Jim” is the highlight of my career, nothing that followed beats. It is the project that propelled me to the status where I am now. The experience was the best time of my life so far.

3) How did you cast Teejay Marquez and Jerome Ponce to their respective roles as Ben and Jim? Did they fulfil your vision?

Teejay Marquez was already on board, before we conceptualized the show. Jerome Ponce was the actor in my first movie. I thought they would make a perfect pair. Their chemistry was undeniable. I really believe that they fulfilled my vision.

4) The sequel “B X J Forever” had a fresh casting and received mixed reviews. Avid fans seemed disappointed with the ending? Do you want to share your opinion about the same?

I believe that the ending is what all the characters deserved. Furthermore, whoever said that the story has already ended? (wink)

5) You just finished shooting your upcoming show “The Day I Loved You”. There isn’t much information available about the storyline? Can you share snippets about the same?

It’s a fresher, more Gen Z take on Boys’ Love. The story is about first love, first crush, first kiss, first holding hands, everything you experience when your heart flutters for the first time. It’s light, it’s a feel-good show. It captures the glory of youth and first love.

6) Rabin Angeles, Raynold Tan, and Tommy Alejandrino will be playing the main leads Justin, Elli and Nikko? How did you choose them and share your experience of working with this young cast?

There was a completely different cast the first time. Until Regal Entertainment’s Ms. Roselle gave the idea of importing a Singaporean actor. Scouting Rabin and Tommy was the most difficult. After many screen tests, chemistry tests and auditions, finally, we were able to complete the cast.

7) Philippines is mostly seen as a “Gay Friendly” nation, despite the fact that same- sex marriages aren’t legalized in your country. What is your opinion about the same?

I think there are still more battles to be won in this country. I know that we have come far when it comes to rights and visibility, but the fight isn’t over yet. That’s why we are here, to tell stories that will justify that we, too, deserve whatever privilege and rights others enjoy. Time will come when all this will be achieved. I am positive about that.

8) If you had to choose between directing films or dramas, which one would you choose? Which form of art is closer to your heart?

Directing films is the choice closer to me. I took up BA Film in college, and it’s the medium closer to me and the one I feel at home with.

9) Have you watched BL/LGBTQ dramas or movies directed by others?

Yes, many of them are from different countries as well. And some of the series are done by my director friends. I am so happy that there’s a lot to watch. And there are many options. Some of my favorites are Heartstopper, Game Boys, Hello Stranger, and Happy Together.

10) Talk to us about your upcoming future projects related to BL culture?

As of now, I am focused on finishing “The Day I Loved You”. After that, I will create some more.

11) We have a lot of BL fans and members of the LGBTQ+ community as our avid readers. Do you have any advice or message to share with them?

First of all, I am very thankful that they are there to support everything we do. We really feel the love and support they give, and we are hoping with all our hearts that they will stay with us through and through.

Enjoy the official trailer for “The Day I Loved You”-

The BL Xpress would like to thank Mr. Easy Ferrer for this opportunity!