Un/Happy for You (2024)

The first real 'ex-couple' on screen -- made all the hype

There's a lot to unpack here so buckle up. Here we go~

This is one of the prime examples of how to get the right cast. More than the movie itself, most of the people including me possibly got intrigued and watched this because of Joshua and Julia.

As a context for non-Filipinos or someone who's not really into showbiz tea, it may be unusual in other countries but in PH, when an artist is labeled with a 'loveteam' they usually have shows back to back to back. Like all you'll see is a bunch of shows and movies with those 2 people partnered up over and over again -- which is probably the reason why most 'loveteams' do end up being romantically involved off-screen which will make the fans go more wild and the more reason for them to lead on more shows or movies. JoshLia is one of the most popular 'loveteams' on and off screen in the Philippine media so it was a shock to everyone when they broke up 5 years ago. The break up was also mixed with other controversies that beg to ask the question if the cause of the relationship's downfall is a third party -- and caused people to pick sides. I won't be able to tell which is the truth but just letting you know it was a thing.

Fast forward to 2024 and JoshLia is back on screen with their role as ex-lovers. I can't speak for everyone but when I saw the trailer, I went nuts. Since they are real-life 'ex-lovers', it kind of blurred the line between reality and fiction. There were scenes that made me think about whether it was still scripted or were the lines just naturally came out from their past breakup and I think that's what really sold the movie to me. Upon watching it though, I'm surprised that it delivered.

There were a few notes though, I personally think that the Filipino movies have already come a long way, but there's still waaaaay more to improve on our overall movie production. The western movies are way way more advanced than what we have. With that being said, I would say that I did enjoy watching it. There were scenes that I didn't like much or character decisions that were a little questionable even in reality but I guess it still delivered some relatable lessons on relationships -- what things to avoid and what things to do more. Oh, and the lines -- fire ???. I've been thinking about them until we get back home.

While this might not be for everyone. I think it's a good weekend watch -- alone or with someone or with an ex?

Read More