HBO Max is rolling out five Asian originals this summer, with titles from Taiwan, the Philippines and Indonesia set to premiere on the Warner Bros. Discovery streaming platform between late July and late August.
The Taiwan slate comprises two HBO Originals, both directed by Kao Pin-chuan. “Fired Up!” is a 12-episode coming-of-age drama adapted from the Kakao Webtoon “Itaewon Class,” the popular manhwa by GwangJin. Co-directed by Tseng Ying-ting and produced by DaMou Entertainment, the series centers on a young man’s effort to uncover the truth about his father’s death while keeping the family restaurant afloat. The cast includes Mandopop artist Eric Chou, Angela Yuen, Shao Yu-wei and Ben Wu. The series premieres July 31.
The second Taiwanese entry, “The Producer,” follows an aspiring music producer navigating the intense challenges of achieving her dreams. Produced by YIYI Pictures Co., the series stars Yo Yang and 9m88, and is set to launch Aug. 28.
From the Philippines, “Call My Manager” is an eight-episode HBO Original produced by Reality MM Studios, executive produced by Erik Matti and Ronald “Dondon” Monteverde. The series is a local reworking of the French comedy “Call My Agent,” following three talent managers as they handle the professional crises of their celebrity clients. Judy Ann Santos, Edu Manzano and RK Bagatsing lead the cast. The series premieres Aug. 13.
Also from the Philippines, the unscripted series “Come Dine With Me: Celebrity Philippines” – a local iteration of the long-running British format – launches July 23 with 20 local celebrities and public figures taking part.
Rounding out the slate, Indonesian feature film “The Invisible Guest” arrives on the platform Aug. 7, starring Mawar Eva De Jongh and Reza Rahadian.
The new content will premiere on HBO Max in selected APAC markets, including Southeast Asia, Taiwan and Hong Kong. Further details on additional international markets will be revealed at a later date.