The romantic comedy format has spent decades relying on predictable studio formulas, but independent filmmakers are finding new life in the genre by tackling complex cultural divides. Director Marie Jamora has launched production on We Could Be In Love, an upcoming indie feature starring Jasmine Curtis-Smith (The Time That Remains) and actor Yao (Sinners).
The project brings together an expansive ensemble cast that includes Jamie Chung (Gotham), Lou Diamond Phillips (La Bamba), Tamlyn Tomita (The Karate Kid Part II), and Airline Inthyrath, known to television audiences as Jujubee from RuPaul’s Drag Race.
Filming begins on location across New York City and Manila, positioning the production against two distinct metropolitan backdrops.
Crossing Family Dynasties and Social Class
The story follows Jasmine Aquino, played by Curtis-Smith, a working-class Filipina American woman navigating life in the United States. Her world shifts when she meets Ambrose Lee, portrayed by Yao, the wealthy heir to an influential Chinese-Filipino commercial dynasty.
As their connection deepens, the couple runs directly into family expectations, generational wealth gaps, colorism, and unspoken prejudices within the Asian diaspora.
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Director Jamora, who grew up in the Philippines before directing television episodes of Queen Sugar and Matlock, explained that stepping outside Hollywood studio systems allows for a richer emotional palette.
“I grew up in the Philippines watching all the Hollywood rom-coms with my mom,” Jamora said. “Now that I have the opportunity to direct an Asian-led romantic comedy outside the traditional American studio system, it’s so exciting to lean into the cultural nuance, authenticity, and heart that global audiences are craving. Jasmine and Yao bring a special combination of warmth, depth, and chemistry to their characters. I cannot wait to share our film with the world.”
Honest Tensions Inside Modern Communities
Screenwriter and executive producer Terence Chen (Meet Cute in Manhattan) developed the script to ensure that the romantic stakes reflect real community dynamics.
“At its core, ‘We Could Be In Love’ is a classic, swoon-worthy romance that doesn’t shy away from the real cultural and economic friction points within our communities,” Chen said. “We are thrilled to be filming in New York and Manila and capturing the vibrant, modern backdrop of these cities.”
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Producing duties are led by Geri Leigh Tiu, Annie Huang, and Sonca Nguyen, with executive producers including Chen, Thea Jacinto Ugarte, and Oscar-nominated Sing Sing producer Jon-Adrian “JJ” Velazquez.
Costume designer Hannah Kittell oversees the visual wardrobe, while journalist and filmmaker Dino-Ray Ramos serves as cultural consultant to help guide community details on screen.
With cameras rolling across two continents, We Could Be In Love aims to offer audiences a fresh take on the classic love story when it completes post-production next year.
