Xian Lim is back.
This time as director of “Project Loki,” the series adaptation of the hit Wattpad novel by AkoSiIbarra.
The fan-favorite story — which has racked up more than 92 million reads since its 2015 debut, promises a thrilling blend of mystery, suspense, and heart — the same potent mix that first turned “Project Loki” into an online phenomenon.
For Lim, the challenge lies in honoring the essence of AkoSiIbarra’s beloved work while reimagining it for a new medium.
“Ang importante sa akin as a director is to be faithful doon sa story na minahal ng marami,” Lim says. “We just wanna give it justice, we just wanna stay true to the source material. I believe that’s the key to a successful adaptation — capturing how readers imagined the story and translating that on screen.”
Author AkoSiIbarra shares Lim’s dedication to authenticity.
“Thankfully, we share the same vision,” the author explains. “We talk through every scene in detail. Mabusisi si Xian, mabusisi rin ako so, rest assured this is still the ‘Project Loki’ fans fell in love with.”
Beyond his artistic vision, Lim also emphasizes the importance of fostering a collaborative, nurturing atmosphere for his young cast.
“I think they can deliver their best when they feel supported,” he adds. “They’re young, they’re just starting out and my goal is to help coax the best out of them.”
Casting has been a focal point of fan anticipation and the production’s lineup mirrors the characters readers have long envisioned.
Portraying Lorelei, the intuitive newcomer whose presence upends the dynamics of the QED Club, is singer and actress Jayda Avanzado.
“I love mysteries and suspense,” Avanzado says. “Being part of a story like this — one that so many people already love — is such an exciting experience.”
Rising star Dylan Menor steps into the title role of Loki Mendez, the QED Club’s cold, distant leader whose guarded world begins to unravel when Lorelei arrives.
“I’m so thankful that Viva trusted me with this one,” Menor reflects. “It’s something fresh — something I’ve never done before — and I promise not to disappoint.”
Marco Gallo plays Luthor Mendez, Loki’s enigmatic older brother whose quiet demeanor conceals deep emotional complexity.
“This is the first time I’m doing a crime mystery,” Gallo shares. “I’m just so thrilled to be part of something this unique.”
Completing the QED4 are Yumi Garcia as Jamie, a drama club standout drawn into the group’s investigations, and Martin Venegas as Alistair, Lorelei’s fiercely loyal confidant.
They’re joined by a roster of promising young talents — Kurt Delos Reyes, Ashley Diaz, Love Yauco, Michael Keith, Joanna Lara, and Iven Lim — who bring depth and energy to the world of Clark University.
Lim showered them praises.
“Sobra nilang eager and they’re all passionate. They’re all stars in the making, diamonds in the rough. I am very proud para sa kanilang lahat.”
Produced by Studio Viva, MediaQuest Ventures, and Cignal, in partnership with Webtoon Productions, “Project Loki” is set to stream soon on Viva One and Cignal Play.
