Edward Galvez, a Philippine Navy officer gets tangled in a web of lies and conspiracies when an organization kidnaps his wife. As the protagonist discovers the truth behind the crime, he uncovers a treacherous plot that threatens to turn his world upside-down. The true perpetrators of the crime may be closer to home than he dare think. As he thread to the maze of lies, blackmails, double-dealings, and betrayals, everyone becomes a suspect.[2]
The series—a fast-paced suspense-action drama, also dubbed as "suspenserye was conceptualized by RJ Nuevas and developed by Richard Cruz. The two began developing the show under the title Notorious in January and February 2013.[9] The title was changed to Love & Lies during the early stage of production.
In the pilot episode, the series features BRP Emilio Jacinto PS-35, one of the two warships of Philippine Navy.
The production team picked the Philippine Navy as a major setting for the series. On March 13, 2013, the show's main cast Richard Gutierrez, Paolo Contis together with series' director Mark Reyes visited the Headquarters Philippine Navy (HPN) and paid a courtesy call on the Navy Chief, Vice Admiral Jose Luis M. Alano AFP.[11] Aside from that, Gutierrez and Contis also signed up as Philippine Navy Reservists. On the other hand, Vice Admiral Alano assured the network that the Navy will provide its full support and assistance to the series and said "We look forward to this project in which we can show and highlight what the Philippine Navy is all about." He likewise briefed Gutierrez and Contis about the rigid training and life of a Navy Seal.[12]
The series' director described the show as his "dream project".[13] Regarding the amount of action and drama being laced in the series, Reyes said that "The nearest thing that you can compare it to is Taken. There's a lot of suspense. But at the same time, there's drama that is interwoven with it. The pacing is reminiscent of 24".[14]
Casting
Richard Gutierrez was cast as the series' main protagonist, Edward Galvez. Director Mark Reyes revealed that the actor came first before the concept of the show. Gutierrez had to undergo tactical shooting training [in preparation for the role] ahead of the other cast members. He also immersed himself the Philippine Navy way.[13]
Michelle Madrigal, Sid Lucero and Paolo Contis were cast to play three equally important roles. Madrigal felt pressured, her character Cathy Galvez was the lynchpin of the series, said that "My goal for this role is to showcase my capabilities as an actor rather than show more skin."[15]
The character Denise Salvador was initially offered to Lovi Poe.[5]Bela Padilla took over the role. Padilla finds her "kick-ass" character as "[...] very interesting. I would have auditioned for it if it weren't offered to me. Coming from the drama series Magdalena, it's refreshing to do a character who is strong, loud and bubbly."[5] In an interview, Padilla further stated that her character was pegged on a female version of Robin Padilla.[4]
Production
Principal photography commenced on March 21, 2013.[16] Some of the scenes in the pilot episode were shot in Philippine Navy headquarters in Sangley Point in Cavite City and in BRP Emilio Jacinto (PS 35) Philippine Navy warship.[17][18] Series' director Reyes described the pilot ala-Crimson Tide.[19]
Reception
Ratings
According to AGB Nielsen Philippines' Mega Manila household television ratings, the pilot episode of Love & Lies earned a 22.8% rating.[20] The final episode scored a 22.7% rating.[21]
Critical response
The series has generated a generally positive response from critics. Mercy Lejarde, an entertainment writer from the tabloid Balita praised Bela Padilla's acting performances, said that "Lovi Poe's lose is Bela Padilla's gain."[22] Dinno Erece of Show and Tell described the series "Exciting" and "he won't be surprised if the network extends it."[23]
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