Movie Review: Hello Love Again

Fresh from the first ever midnight screening, here I am holding my thoughts about Hello, Love, Again. The moving follow-up to the 2019 blockbuster film, Hello, Love, Goodbye is now officially opened worldwide today, Hello, Love, Again. After years of being apart, Joy and Ethan are reunited in Canada in this film, which continues their story. The film introduces a more sophisticated and nuanced interplay between the two, while retaining the emotional heart of its predecessor. Before you proceed, here is my review of Hello, Love, Goodbye (2019)

Watch the trailer first of Hello, Love, Again.

Initially, I was curious how the Canada storyline will unfold and what new conflicts will arise as Joy and Ethan navigate this unfamiliar territory together. Reminds me of the 2004 film, Milan by Olivia Lamasan when Lino (Pascual followed) Jenny (Claudine Barretto) and how hard it is for Filipinos carry on with their lives. Will they face challenges related to career aspirations, or the emotional toll of being far from home? Well, it didn’t disappoint. The film is a testament to the power of storytelling, where the art of omission often speaks louder than explicit exposition. I am very impressed with how they played on the time element. The film’s masterful play with time, weaving past, present, and future, creates a captivating narrative that keeps the audience engaged. I was very intrigued.

How Joy transformed as Marie is crucial to the film’s narrative. Her journey from a struggling lone lass to a self-assured individual is marked by pain, loss, and introspection. Her expressive eyes, devoid of dialogue, convey her complex emotions, making her transformation palpable and inspiring. Trust me when I tell you, I might have familiarized myself with all of her nuiances in front of the camera. Here, Kathryn delivers a career-defining performance, showcasing her exceptional talent and solidifying her status as an undisputed acting powerhouse. This role is the epitome of her artistry, a testament to her unwavering dedication and passion.

Ethan’s fate resonated deeply with me. His struggle, loss, and pain mirror the universal human experience of striving for dreams only to be confronted by harsh reality. His character’s arc is a poignant reminder of life’s unpredictability.  He is a victim of his own helplessness that life mandated of him. Alden gave this role a performance to remember. Not just the Tisoy-looking lad, but an important artist in the industry. It was Direk Cathy’s magic. Both for Kathryn and Alden to create this artistry in this lifetime. It was amazing.

While carrying their own baggages. I like how the film also highlighted the role of a breadwinner. Of a sad, self-sufficient one can do just to provide for the family. I think this is where most of us Pinoys can relate to.

There were some familiar places in the film. Like of Joross’ funny but already used form of comic. He was perfect when he did the same from John Lloyd-Sarah Trilogy. Could have been different attack but he cracked the crowd up. I give him that. And to Tonton. You amused me with your cluelessness of life. That’s a small but great addition on the side. Watchout for Tonton.

The film presents the most realistic pandemic arc ever told in a Filipino film. The pandemic, an unrelenting tempest that ravaged the world, changed our world and our lives irrevocably. It made us face our mortality, the transience of life, and the value of interpersonal relationships. With Joy and Ethan, it challenged and left a lasting impression in their hearts and served as a sobering reminder of the transience of life by taking lives, relationships, and dreams. Poor souls getting the life belt in their ages.

I believe the film not only highlights the sacrifices of OFWs but also delves deeper into the emotional complexities of their experiences. We learned from the pandemic how important it is to live life to the fullest, to express love openly, and to treasure every moment. It stoked a fire within of us, a resolve to live a life full of meaning, kindness, and thankfulness in remembrance of the people we lost. For Joy and Ethan, it defined how home means to them. It is how it brought them to where they want to be, where they want to end. And I like how it ended. It gave hope. It sealed fate.

Hello, Love, Again is a beautiful example of how a well-written story can resonate with audiences on a profound level. It’s a reminder that sometimes, less is more, and that the art of storytelling lies in the delicate balance of revealing and concealing. It is a heartwarming and poignant film that celebrates the sacrifices made by oneself, particularly an OFWs. It is a testament to the enduring power of love, the importance of family, and the pursuit of dreams. With its stellar performances, strong storytelling, and emotional depth, this film is a must-watch for anyone who appreciates heartfelt cinema. Please watch it in Cinemas so you can allow yourself to the ugly crying that you expect to do.

Unlike Hong Kong, Canada or US is a sought-after destination for Filipinos. However, the path to success abroad is not easy, especially during the pandemic years. It requires resilience and sacrifice, as one must balance the pursuit of opportunity with the longing for home. This journey serves as a poignant reminder of what truly matters in life.

Ive heard Hello Love Again opened strong with 500 Cinemas today. And Im predicting a worldwide gross of 1.3Billion. That’s just me. Thank you for this film!