Zanjoe Marudo leads a narrative that resonates with the realities of Filipino family dynamics.

Ogie Diaz is feeling confident as he gears up for the release of his latest film, “How to Get Away From My Toxic Family,” co-produced with KreativDen. This family drama, set to premiere on July 30, 2025, finds itself up against the cinematic giants “Superman: Legacy” and “The Fantastic Four: First Steps.” But Diaz believes his film carries a unique message that will resonate deeply with the audience.

Starring Zanjoe Marudo as Arsenio, the narrative digs into the uncomfortable truths underlying familial love—proving that sometimes, the most toxic relationships can reside within our own homes. Arsenio faces a tough choice: pursue his dreams or confront the toxic dynamics within his family. Marudo’s performance promises to highlight not just the pain of this character but also the hope for recovery and self-acceptance.

While many would falter in the face of blockbuster competition, Diaz remains unfazed. “I can’t say that they should be scared of us,” he joked at the film’s advanced screening. Instead, he emphasizes the importance of telling a meaningful story that reflects the struggles of Filipinos today. “We are trying to do a meaningful movie that would reflect the lives of Filipinos and would be appreciated by fellow Filipinos,” he added.

One of the film’s standout themes is the necessity of setting boundaries. Marudo, during promotional interviews, courageously pointed out that the toxic traits depicted in the film are often ingrained in Filipino culture. “These toxic family traits have been part of Filipino culture. But one should learn how to set boundaries, even if family is involved,” he expressed, sharing his views on the fine line between support and sacrifice.

The film comes as a relevant offering for millennial and Gen Z viewers, highlighting mental health—a topic that has gained significant visibility in recent years. Diaz, a staunch advocate for mental well-being, advises viewers that it’s okay to walk away when a relationship becomes detrimental. “If you can’t take it anymore, it’s time to leave,” he said, echoing sentiments of self-care that are so important today.

Joining Marudo in this heartfelt piece are talented actors Susan Africa, Richard Quan, and Sherry Lara, with a special appearance from Nonie Buencamino, making it a star-studded affair. After a two-year hiatus, Marudo is excited to showcase his evolved artistry, with plans to star alongside Daniel Padilla in an upcoming film, “Nang Mapagod Na Si Kamatayan.”

This ambitious project, rooted in personal experiences and reflections, has been on Diaz’s mind since last year. With a script penned by John Bedia and directed by Lawrence Fajardo, “How to Get Away From My Toxic Family” promises to offer viewers a blend of drama, humor, and a strong moral lesson.

Ogie Diaz called Marudo his first choice for the role, saying, “If Z didn’t say yes, we had no second choice for who would take on the role.” It’s clear that Diaz believes in the power of casting to tell stories that are both relatable and transformative, making this film one to watch this summer.

As the release date approaches, audiences can look forward to a raw and honest portrayal of the challenges many families face—perfectly encapsulated in the tagline: “Sometimes, home isn’t what it seems.”