Acclaimed, award-winning filmmaker Nijel de Mesa is back with a new “NDM Original”—and this time, he’s taking us to Japan for what may be his boldest, most emotionally devastating film yet: Hearts In Transit. The film was launched during the “Not for Everyone Gala”, the post-Valentine Gala of NDM PLUS at the Art Son Gala Hall in Quezon City, Philippines.
Set against the poetic backdrops of Tokyo’s neon glow and the serene stillness of rural Japan, this full-English, full-length international feature promises to redefine the romantic drama for a global audience when it premieres in the second quarter of 2026 exclusively on NDM PLUS.
And yes—this is the one everyone will be talking about.
“It is a love story we think we know—until we don’t,” said Director De Mesa. “You know. At first glance, Hearts In Transit feels familiar: three people, one impossible choice, and emotions that refuse to stay contained. But me, being, I do not tell ordinary stories. It is a heart-wrenching romantic drama about timing, identity, and the cost of loving someone when you’re still figuring yourself out.”
The major characters in the movie are Ravi (played by Will Devaughn), an American logistics officer stationed in Japan, is disciplined, dependable—and quietly unraveling beneath the surface. Gale (played by Sheridan Mortlock), a research fellow studying circular economy and sustainability in Japan, arrives with purpose and a belief that systems—like hearts—can be redesigned. And Flynn (played by Nico Locco), an American drifter with charm and chaos in equal measure, is a man chasing everything because he hasn’t yet found himself.
Director De Mesa said: “The triangle is the messy kind, you know. The stakes are deeply personal. And of course, there is a twist. Let’s just say this isn’t about choosing between two lovers—it’s about choosing the person you are brave enough to become.”
Perhaps the film’s most exciting revelation is its leading lady, Sheridan Mortlock, making her screen acting debut in Hearts In Transit. She is an Australian model and professional host/MC, Sheridan steps into the cinematic spotlight with remarkable emotional intelligence. And here’s the fascinating part: her character, Gale, feels almost written for her.
A recent graduate with a double degree majoring in Global Sustainability and Politics, Sheridan found a natural connection to Gale’s journey. In the film, Gale relocates to Japan to undertake sustainability research aligned with the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Sheridan’s real-world academic grounding allowed her to bring authenticity and nuance to the role.
But she didn’t stop at theory.
A passionate sustainability advocate—particularly within the fashion industry—Sheridan actively works with initiatives like SLOGUE to promote circular clothing practices. She champions local and sustainable fashion brands across her social platforms and predominantly wears second-hand or natural fibers as a reflection of her values.
Transitioning from modeling in front of the camera to embodying a fully realized character marks a bold new chapter. Having trained at the National Institute of Dramatic Art (NIDA) in Sydney in her youth (where Hugh Jackman, Margot Robbie, Sam Worthington studied acting), this return to acting is a full-circle moment—one that transforms a long-held dream into a powerful reality.
And if early whispers from test screenings are anything to go by, Sheridan isn’t just making a debut—she’s making a statement.
Will Devaughn as Ravi is a familiar face to Philippine audiences and beyond.
Born in the United States and raised partly in the Philippines, Devaughn first gained national attention as a finalist on the reality show Pinoy Big Brother: Celebrity Edition 2 (Philippines). He went on to build a respected acting career in both television and film, appearing in numerous dramas and romantic features.
Known for his boy-next-door charm and emotional sincerity, Devaughn has long been a staple in Philippine entertainment. But Hearts In Transit may mark one of his most mature performances yet—stripping away the polish to reveal a man caught between duty and desire in a foreign land.
Industry insiders are already calling this his “career-elevating” role.
Then, there’s Nico Locco—and if you know his work, you know he doesn’t play it safe.
Locco, a Canadian-Italian actor and model, has built a reputation in the Philippine entertainment scene for taking on edgy, unconventional roles. Known for his intense screen presence and willingness to explore complex, morally gray characters, he brings unpredictable energy to Flynn.
Flynn isn’t just the “other man.” He’s a mirror. A catalyst. A complication wrapped in charisma.
work in independent films and mainstream series alike has proven his range—but in Hearts In Transit, he may have found his most layered character to date.
Adding awe and wonder to the movie is that Japan here is more than just a backdrop, Japan becomes a living, breathing force in the film. From bustling cityscapes to tranquil coastal towns, the setting amplifies the emotional isolation and connection between the characters.
Language, distance, culture—all of it shapes how these three Americans confront love far from home.
“Hearts in Transit is romantic, disorienting and devastatingly beautiful,” said Director De Mesa.
Hearts In Transit is more than just another release—it’s a milestone project for NDM Studios.
As a full-English international production, it marks the studio’s bold expansion into global storytelling. Slated for release in the second quarter of 2026, the film will premiere exclusively on the global streaming platform NDM PLUS. And this is just the beginning.
NDM PLUS has been touted as the “Home of Unique Storytelling”—a platform dedicated to powerful, original narratives that push boundaries and connect cultures.
If Hearts In Transit is any indication, they’re delivering on that promise in a big way.
Prepare for a love story that will test loyalties, challenge identities, and leave you questioning the very nature of destiny. Don’t miss the film everyone will be talking about in 2026.
Subscribe now at www.ndmplus.com and be part of the movement.
NDM PLUS — Home of Unique Storytelling.
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