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Philippine production companies Fusee and Studio 360 have officially joined forces in a strategic partnership, marking their first collaboration with the upcoming action thriller One More Night to Live also known by its Japanese title Kon’ya Daremo Shinanai. The announcement was made during the ongoing Hong Kong FilMart, where both companies are actively engaging with international distributors and potential co production partners. The film is currently targeting a 2027 release.
The project will be directed by Lester Pimentel Ong, founder of Studio 360, alongside his frequent collaborator Ace Wang Yan Bin. Their combined experience in action filmmaking and martial arts driven storytelling sets the tone for a film that aims to balance intense action with emotional depth.
At the heart of the story is Yuta, an undocumented Filipino immigrant struggling to survive on the margins of Japanese society. After the death of his mother, Yuta is forced to confront unresolved family issues while attempting to reclaim unpaid wages from his employer, Daido. However, he soon discovers that Daido is deeply involved in a Yakuza operation that exploits undocumented workers. With no legal protection and nowhere to turn, Yuta is pushed into a desperate fight for survival over the course of a single night. His mission becomes even more urgent as he attempts to rescue his teenage sister Fukio from a dangerous trafficking network.
Beyond its action driven narrative, the film explores complex social themes tied to identity, belonging, and marginalization within Tokyo’s Filipino community. It draws a clear distinction between Japinos, who are often undocumented children of Filipino migrant workers, and Hafu individuals, who possess Japanese citizenship through bloodline or marriage. This divide shapes Yuta’s internal struggles and adds emotional weight to his relationship with his sister, who exists on a different side of that social line.
A defining feature of the film is its use of Kali, an indigenous Filipino martial art, as the foundation for its action sequences. Rather than relying on stylized choreography, the production emphasizes practical, close combat techniques and weapon based movement. This approach not only enhances realism but also reinforces Yuta’s connection to his cultural roots, positioning Kali as both a narrative tool and a cultural statement.
Wilfredo C Manalang, founder of Fusee, emphasized that the film goes beyond conventional action storytelling. He described it as an exploration of modern forms of exploitation that exist beneath the surface of even the most orderly cities. The film aims to highlight the often overlooked experiences of the Filipino diaspora, focusing on themes of displacement and the struggle to belong.
Ong echoed this vision, stating that the goal is to create a film that delivers both emotional intensity and physical impact. By combining grounded storytelling with Studio 360’s action philosophy and the raw nature of Kali, the team hopes to produce a cinematic experience that resonates on multiple levels.
Both companies bring strong credentials to the collaboration. Fusee has a history of producing critically recognized films across international festivals, while Studio 360 has demonstrated success in the streaming space with action driven content. Together, they form a partnership that blends artistic depth with commercial appeal.
With its layered storytelling, cultural focus, and grounded action, One More Night to Live positions itself as more than just a thriller. It stands as a bold attempt to bring underrepresented narratives into global cinema while delivering a gripping and emotionally charged experience.
