Bar Boys: After School — A Reunion Full of Heart, Humor, and Honest Conversations

From L-R: Bryce Eusebio, Carlo Aquino, Will Ashley, Emilio Daez, Carlo Aquino

 

Bar Boys: After School is an official entry to the Metro Manila Film Festival 2025, marking the much-awaited return of one of the decade’s most beloved barkada films.

The mediacon for Bar Boys: After School felt like a true reunion—both for the original fans and for the cast whose chemistry continues to shine nine years after the first film. The entire ensemble graced the event, from the OG barkada—Carlo Aquino, Rocco Nacino, Kean Cipriano, and Enzo Pineda—to the new generation of talents including Will Ashley, Emilio Daez, Bryce Eusebio, Benedix Ramos, Sassa Gurl, and Therese Malvar. The presence of the iconic Ms. Odette Khan elevated the gathering, creating a sense of gratitude and legacy that captivated everyone present.

Before the program formally began, a heartfelt tribute was given to Ms. Odette Khan, honoring her distinguished contribution to both Bar Boys films and to Philippine cinema as a whole. This solemn yet inspiring moment set the tone for the afternoon.

As the Q&A unfolded, the cast and director Kip Oebanda addressed a wide range of topics—from the current political landscape to the moral compass expected of lawyers. Director Kip Oebanda emphasized that while the film touches on real-world issues, it remains far from preachy. Instead, it promises to entertain audiences with wit and warmth, similar to the sharp humor seen in the original Bar Boys and in Oebanda’s well-loved film Balota.

Every answer offered a peek behind the scenes: the camaraderie, the weight of returning to beloved characters, and the responsibility of telling a story that speaks not just about law, but about life. As the cast shared their experiences, it became clear that Bar Boys: After School is more than a sequel—it’s a reflection of maturity, growth, and lessons learned outside the classroom.

Watch the mediacon videos below to hear directly from the cast and get an insider look at the making of Bar Boys: After School

 

 

Nine years since its release, the original Bar Boys remains a cult classic, resonating deeply with audiences who either went through law school or simply saw their own friendships in its heartfelt storytelling. With over 17 million YouTube views and multiple sold-out stage runs, its cultural impact is undeniable.

Now, Bar Boys: After School invites us back—older, wiser, and ready to take on the ultimate exam: life.

The sequel picks up a decade after graduation. Torran, Chris, Erik, and Josh return not merely as lawyers, but as individuals dealing with the complexities of adulthood. When their mentor, Justice Hernandez, falls gravely ill and finds herself emotionally abandoned by her family, the barkada takes it upon themselves—along with a group of new law students—to support her during her most vulnerable moments.

It is through this journey that they discover life continues to teach truths beyond any syllabus—truths of loyalty, character, integrity, self-worth, and purpose. The heart of the film pulses with the message: We are all forever students of life.

Guiding this story is a powerhouse creative team. Director Kip Oebanda revisits the world he crafted, ensuring the film balances humor, realism, and social relevance. He is joined by acclaimed co-writers Zig Dulay and Carlo Catu, both celebrated for their award-winning storytelling and nuanced perspectives.

The film is produced by 901 Studios, a dynamic new production company whose origin story is as inspiring as the film itself. 901 Studios was born out of a shared passion for filmmaking among three friends: Jon Galvez, Leo Liban, and Carlos Ortiz, who all came from diverse professional backgrounds.

With its strong fanbase spanning Millennials and Gen Z, Bar Boys: After School stands out as one of the most anticipated entries in this year’s Metro Manila Film Festival. It offers the perfect holiday watch—fun, touching, thought-provoking, and full of barkada feels that are relatable to every adult trying to navigate life after graduation.

The narrative’s focus on the post-graduation struggle, career compromise, and the emotional toll of adult 

This film is not just an MMFF entry; it is a Christmas treat for its loyal fans who are ready to support the next chapter of their favorite big-screen barkada. This is the perfect movie for friends who will be reuniting this Christmas season and are looking forward to a fun and worthwhile experience.

Bar Boys: After School opens in cinemas nationwide on December 25.