MANILA -- Two of the country’s most versatile actors, Baron Geisler and Jake Cuenca, are joining forces in the upcoming Netflix film “Delivery Rider,” directed by Lester Ong, premiering on October 23 across Southeast Asia.
According to Ong, “Delivery Rider” tells the story of a highly functional person on the autism spectrum who becomes entangled in a situation beyond his control. The film blends action and heartfelt drama, offering a fresh take on the action genre.
“It’s a very unique story because it’s about a person with autism who is highly functional and gets trapped in a situation he doesn’t want to be in,” Ong explained. “It’s not your usual action movie. Every character has their own truth everyone believes they are right.”
Baron Geisler and Jake Cuenca with director Lester Ong. ABS-CBN News
Aside from exploring neurodiversity, Ong said the film also pays tribute to delivery riders, whom he described as “our everyday heroes.” The movie aims to shed light on their hard work and sacrifices while delivering hope to families of children on the spectrum.
Geisler shared that his portrayal was inspired by his own daughter, who is also on the autism spectrum. “I have a daughter under the spectrum, so I understand the nuances, the small gestures, the flapping,” he said. “I studied, watched films, and worked closely with Direk Lester through workshops to find my character’s voice and nuances.”
The actor expressed deep gratitude to Ong and the team for guiding him through an emotionally charged and physically demanding role. “This film is world-class. The shots, the acting, the story everything is elevated. We really gave it our all,” he added.
Meanwhile, Cuenca plays a crime syndicate boss whose world collides with Geisler’s character. Despite being an antagonist, Cuenca emphasized that his role shows a human side.
“He’s not your typical bad guy. He’s a loving brother who feels wronged by the delivery rider,” Cuenca explained. “We poured our heart, soul, blood, sweat, and tears into this film. Every action scene tested us physically and emotionally.”
Both the director and actors dedicated the film to two groups close to their hearts: children on the autism spectrum and delivery riders.
“This movie is for them,” Geisler said. “For the parents who continue to love with patience and strength, and for the riders who make our everyday lives easier.”
Filmed with intense MMA-style sequences and emotionally grounded performances, “Delivery Rider” is set to deliver a compelling mix of action, empathy, and Filipino pride when it drops on Netflix Southeast Asia this October 23.
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