Fantasy has been a favorite theme in Pinoy television, especially during the 2000s era. Featuring all kinds of mythical creatures usually drawn from the rich culture of Pinoy folktales, these fantasy series transported viewers to magical dimensions.
Apart from the fantastical elements, they’re also beloved for the lessons they continue to impart about compassion, friendship, hope, and courage.
ABS-CBN boasts a selection of the finest fantaseryes to have graced our screens. Here, we present five of the best:
Kampanerang Kuba
Telling the tale of Imang, a good-hearted hunchbacked church bell-ringer, "Kampanerang Kuba" (2005) delivered profound lessons on life and love. Beyond its magical allure, viewers adored its lighthearted moments complete with song and dance.
Anne Curtis's portrayal of Imang made the show even more exceptional. This teleserye marked a significant milestone in her career, serving as her first major breakthrough as a Kapamilya. We can all agree that she delivered a dazzling performance, showcasing her commitment and passion for her craft despite wearing prosthetic makeup to transform into Imang. Her stellar acting in "Kampanerang Kuba" paved the way for her success in other iconic fantaserye roles "Dyosa" and "Dyesebel."
Kokey
The iconic Kapamilya alien! Both children and adults followed this show for its portrayal of love and friendship, as well as its thrilling out-of-this-world adventures.
Kokey (2007) was adapted from the 1997 movie of the same name. It’s about an alien named Kokey from the planet Yekok, who crash-landed on Earth in his ship and became friends with a child named Bong (Joshua Cadelina), who helped him build his ship to get back to his planet. However, they must also fight Korokoy, the enemy who followed him to Earth trying to get his hands on the crystal that Kokey possesses.
In 2009, a sequel titled "Kokey@Ako" aired, featuring Toni Gonzaga and Vhong Navarro in lead roles.
Juan Dela Cruz
Before he became Cardo Dalisay and Tanggol Dimaguiba, Coco Martin rose to fame as the charismatic hero Juan dela Cruz. Born to a mortal who perished during childbirth, Juan was raised as an orphan within the confines of a church by a righteous parish priest.
Unbeknownst to Juan, he's half Warlock, destined to fulfill the prophecy as the Prince of Darkness, slated to govern his supernatural lineage and potentially dominate humanity.
However, Juan's destiny carries a twist. His mother hailed from a lineage of guardians known as Keepers of the Cross, tasked with wielding the Cross of Steel—an ancient weapon utilized to combat Warlocks and Witches. Unfortunately, the Cross of Steel entrusted to Juan's mother was stolen before her demise. Its recovery became imperative for Juan to safeguard humanity from the sinister schemes of his own kind—the Warlocks and Witches.
Juan dela Cruz (2012) is a fantasy series depicting the timeless battle between good and evil, centering on the journey of an unlikely hero.
Lobo
A series earns its iconic status when it evolves into a saga. "Lobo" (2008) marked the beginning of a trilogy, followed by "Imortal" (2010) starring Angel Locsin and John Lloyd Cruz, and "La Luna Sangre" (2017) starring Kathryn Bernardo and Daniel Padilla.
In "Lobo," Angel and Piolo Pascual took the lead roles. The narrative revolved around Lyka (Angel), an aspiring fashion designer who was unaware of her werewolf heritage, and Noah (Piolo), who harbored resentment towards werewolves due to his father's demise at the hands of one. Despite their differences, love blossomed between them amidst the challenges they face.
Bagani
In 2018, we entered the realm of Sansinukob and embarked on an epic journey alongside five ordinary individuals who each hailed from distinct regions within Sansinukob and rose to become heroes in "Bagani." The tale revolved around Lakas (Enrique Gil), Ganda (Liza Soberano), Lakam (Matteo Guidicelli), Dumakulem (Makisig Morales), and Mayari (Sofia Andres).
Lakas originated from the desert region, born into a clan of warriors banished to the arid lands due to circumstances. Despite the challenges, he embodied resilience, compassion, and unwavering determination to honor his people and protect his loved ones.
Ganda, from the fertile farmlands, possessed a gentle facade but harbored a fiery spirit, willing to make sacrifices to ensure the prosperity of her family and community.
Across the desert and farmlands lies the trade region, home to Lakam, where ingenuity, style, and cunningness thrive among its affluent inhabitants. Dumakulem, an adventurous soul, hailed from the forest tribe, while Mayari, determined to transcend her enslaved status, yearned to be with her beloved nobleman.
In 2018, “Bagani” received a nomination as Best Primetime TV Series at the 32nd PMPC Star Awards for Television. The series instilled in viewers the virtues of bravery, love, hope, and perseverance, exemplified through the journeys of its five central characters.
Revisit these timeless fantaseryes and the magic they continue to bring into our lives, Kapamilya!