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Filipino Rock Legends Doc Heads to US Theaters
26 Feb
Summary
- Documentary on Filipino band Eraserheads acquired for North America.
- Film traces band's journey from university to reunion tour success.
- Features candid interviews and unseen archival material.
The award-winning documentary "Eraserheads: Combo on the Run," which chronicles the iconic Filipino rock band, has been acquired by Abramorama for North American theatrical distribution. This acquisition marks Abramorama's first foray into distributing a Philippine music film.
Directed and produced by Maria Diane Ventura, the film meticulously traces the Eraserheads' entire career trajectory. It begins with their formation as university students in the Philippines in 1989, emerging in the post-EDSA People Power Revolution era, and follows their ascent to becoming a generation-defining act.
The documentary employs candid interviews, previously unseen archival material, and rare behind-the-scenes footage to explore the band's journey through fame, internal challenges, personal evolution, and their enduring cultural legacy. It also contextualizes their music within the broader landscape of Philippine society, highlighting its connection to national identity during a politically charged period.
Before its North American debut, "Eraserheads: Combo on the Run" achieved significant milestones. It secured the widest theatrical release for a Filipino music documentary in the Philippines, distributed by Warner Bros., and was the first Filipino film to screen at San Diego Comic-Con. Further accolades include the Best International Documentary prize at the Ierapetra International Feature Documentary Festival in Greece, and screenings at numerous other international festivals.
Founded in Quezon City in 1989 by Ely Buendia, Marcus Adoro, Buddy Zabala, and Raimund Marasigan, the Eraserheads are revered as one of the most influential groups in Original Pilipino Music history, often referred to as "the Beatles of the Philippines." Their music has amassed over one billion streams on Spotify, and in 1997, they received the MTV Asia's Viewers Choice Award.
Director Maria Diane Ventura expressed excitement about the partnership, stating that Abramorama understands stories with deep cultural resonance. Abramorama CEO/president Karol Martesko-Fenster and senior VP Damon G. Smith highlighted the film's exploration of belonging, healing, and reconciliation beyond its musical narrative. The film is set to open in multiple U.S. and Canadian markets on April 24, 2026.
