‘The Last Resort’ Hires ‘Legally Blonde’ Writer Karen McCullah

EXCLUSIVE: Asia Pacific Films (APF) announced that it will produce and finance romantic comedy The Last Resort (working title), with 10 Things I Hate About You and Legally Blonde screenwriter Karen McCullah attached to the project.

Set to begin production in the Philippines in early 2025, the film is executive produced by a group led by APF chairman and Filipino billionaire Manuel V. Pangilinan, and produced by Ernesto “Bong” Sta. Mary Jr. and RJ Collins (True Memoirs of an International Assassin, The Wrath of Becky). Simon Heo and Akshay Mehta serve as co-producers.

The Last Resort follows a hotel executive who is sent to scout a new resort location in the Philippines. She becomes captivated by the breathtaking scenery and the warmth of its people — and also meets Ben, a charming expatriate charter pilot.

The production company said that casting and search for the film’s director is currently underway, which will consider both foreign and Filipino talents.

“I’m excited to experience the place I was born and represent the culture and beauty of the Philippines on the screen,” McCullah said. “I’m also thrilled to be working with this great team of filmmakers on such a special project.”

McCullah was born in the Philippines and grew up in the US She has also penned screenplays for She’s the Man and The House Bunny.

Producers Sta. Mary Jr. and Collins added: “We are incredibly excited to work with Karen to bring this original story to life. The beauty of the Philippines is awe-inspiring and setting a romantic-comedy against the backdrop of the magnificent landscapes of our country will bring a truly cinematic experience to the screen.”

The deal was negotiated by Glenn Feig of Reder & Feig LLP on behalf of the filmmakers, and Seth Jaret of Jaret Entertainment on behalf of Karen McCullah.