‘Eraserheads: Combo on the Run’: Ely Buendia Shares His Thoughts on ‘Spoliarium’ Myth and What We Know so Far
February 17, Monday – Paper Straw Media attended the “Eraserheads: Combo on the Run” Press Conference held at Gueverra’s by Chef Laudico. We were able to get details about Eraserheads: Combo on the Run, an upcoming docu-film expected to hit theaters on March 21 to 23. Unfortunately, the docu-film will be premiered for a limited time. But I am still hopeful for a miracle that premiering extended or will be available on streaming platforms.
Buendia was the only member who attended the press conference. Warner Bros. Philippines head of distribution Rico Gonzales and producer Francis Lumen also attended the conference to answer significant questions. When Buendia asked where were the rest of the members (Raimund Marasigan, Marcus Adoro, and Buddy Zabala), he said:
“We’ve decided that four talking heads is a bit much. To stop the confusion, I’ll be representing the band for now,” Buendia told the press.
He was asked why the band had always been so vague about their personal lives, he answered:
“Time has passed. I guess the boys and I like mystery and keeping things vague, but there comes a time when that works against you, creating misconceptions and urban legends. This time, we chose a different path—it’s high time, like what Diane said, to reclaim our narrative.”
The docu-film director mentioned in the press conference,
“The things that we’ve heard about the band were mostly speculations. Nobody really knows what happened during the breakup or why it happened. This is the guys reclaiming their narrative.”
For those wishing it would be available on streaming, award-winning director Diane Ventura said they were focusing on the theatrical release for now. As of now, there are no negotiations about distributions for any platforms.
“I think some films are meant to be experienced in cinemas,” Ventura said.
She told the press, “this is a no-holds-barred depiction of their story, and nothing is swept under the rug.”
Lumen, the docu-film producer, said it takes a lot of “patience,” “coordination,” and “communication” to handle the logistics. He said they reached out to the managers of the band members during shooting. We learned that this docu shows the ups and downs of the band.
Rico Gonzales applauded Diane’s film direction. He said the docu-film “equally interviewed” the four members of Eraserheads. None of the members are “upstaging” anybody in this film.
Addressing ‘Spoliarium’ Myth
This undying myth is still being talked about, especially when Darryl Yap released the trailer of another controversial film “The Rapists of Pepsi Paloma.” This film, which is supposed to be released in February, reminded people about the urban legend alleging the band is refencing the case of late actress Pepsi Paloma vs. TVJ.
Buendia denied that the song is refencing the case. He told the press “I am a huge fan of [TVJ]… they are my heroes.” He admitted “it was a sad thing” that Spoliarium became the subject of the urban legend.
“I wouldn’t dream of writing a song to tarnish my heroes.” Overall, he said that the myth about Spoliarium is the most ridiculous urban legend he heard.
What to Expect on ‘Eraserheads: Combo on the Run’
The upcoming docu-film includes an exclusive, behind-the-scenes look at the Huling El Bimbo reunion concert in 2022, set against a backdrop of political division and post-pandemic uncertainty. It will show the rare footage and never-before-seen interviews, the documentary offers a deep dive into the band’s history, struggles, and triumphs.
Eraserheads: Combo on the Run will be released on March 21 to 23. There will be some special treats for fans. Eraserheads: Combo on the Run will be hosting a surprise Pop-Up Performance Lottery. The band will visit an unsuspecting cinema and perform during the weekend theatrical run of the highly anticipated docu-film.