This writer expected this to be a "fanfare" film at first, meaning that it exists to cater to the whims of the Loinie (Loisa Andalio and Ronnie Alonte) fans as well as those of its "prequel", Vince, Kath, and James starring Joshlia (Joshua Garcia and Julia Barretto) as Vince and Kath, and James (Ronnie Alonte) as the third wheel in 2016. However, this film is a lot more than meets the eye.
The film had some kind of prologue depicting James' self-destructive path after his rejection, ending up in a basketball fight, and being quite a jerk, ends up getting "exiled" by his mom to his Lola O's (Odette Khan) resort, where he has to learn how to work to earn his keep as well as improve his people skills by working with a team and under a supervisor, Pat (Loisa Andalio), an aspirational breadwinner whom meets under really awkward circumstances.
Loisa is really the gem of this film. She's able to be effortlessly comic especially when she sings her favorite song in the film. She was also able to make the audience feel that loss of self-worth in that crucial scene that many cried along with her.
Though Ronnie has yet to show a significant improvement when it comes to his acting chops, most of his key scenes are with Loisa, which worked because they do have good chemistry together. My favorite is that water scene which was unexpected. Donnie's character felt a little underwritten because I wish there was more to his motivation than just to be the third party but because of his natural acting ability, his eyes were enough to convey his emotions sans words.
What I like best about Theodore Boborol's direction in this "sequel" compared to the previous film is the pacing. The supporting cast members Odette Khan, Bodjie Pasuca, et al. were perfect for their roles and even newcomer CJ Salonga as Pat's brother was able to deliver. Awra Briguela as her best friend is funny as usual but his comic timing is mroe precise here as opposed to his previous films where there is a feeling of trying too hard to make the joke work. A blast from the past is an icing on top in making this film come full circle.
The movie reminds us that even though we feel that we are unembraced, that we are the third wheel, or we are always on the sidelines, there will always be at least that one person that we are most probably unaware of, will always choose us, and it is not restricted to romantic love.
The film is almost on its second week and is still showing in cinemas nationwide.
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