Under Parallel Skies

An immersive movie. I love the development of the lead star's relationship. It was not hurried but still very endearing. The beauty of the movie is that you'll find yourself in place of each character. Emotions were delivered in a way that it felt like it was directed to you. A lot of realizations about happiness. Sometimes it's not the grandest of things but those small moments that truly made us happy. The transition of English, Filipino, Thai as well as Chinese is well crafted that it fits perfectly. The actors did exceedingly well. It also gave me the chance to explore Hongkong, not the usual bustling city but as well those places that we never know.

It explores how we define happiness which depends on our experiences in life.

The characters are like the typical people you meet from day to day. They have their own struggles and their own joys. Parin and Iris navigate their journey together which is woven together with their own stories to tell.

Beautiful shots of views and angles of each location was immersive. It transports you to each HongKong spot.

Win and Janella have a rapport that is palpable in each scene which is a joy to watch. They make you fall in love with them. They also make you feel their pain.

This movie is a definite worth watch!

Not your typical Filipino romantic comedy movie. It is a breath of fresh air with the romcom being delivered on point. The chemistry between the lead stars Winmetawin and Janella radiates out of the screen. Language did not become a hindrance in making the film, it even helped the movie deliver its message of connections and happiness of individuals under the same parallel skies.

You will be immersed in every scene. Hong Kong being the main location for the movie gave it more meaning. From growing up in the city but choosing a simple life in a quiet island equates to unparalleled skies of happiness.

I just finished watching an amazing movie that left me with an intense feeling. I truly enjoyed it and appreciated the excellent camera work, cinematography, lighting, editing, and all the other elements that make a film great. The storytelling and character development of Parin and Iris were particularly impressive. Win and Jea's acting was superb, and their chemistry was undeniable. Every line they delivered and every emotion they conveyed felt genuine and heartfelt. I was especially impressed with Metawin's outstanding performance in the movie, and I am beyond proud of him. Overall, it was an excellent movie and I highly recommend it.

This is one of the most touching movies I've ever watched. The story is simple, devoid of "big scenes" often seen in Hollywood productions, yet it deeply resonated with me. Audiences would easily relate the story to their own lives.

In a span of two hours, the movie skillfully takes audiences through a range of emotions, from heartwarming moments to poignant ones. A notable element was the inclusion of the song "Remember" by Cantonese pop singer Terence Lam. The lyrics were seamlessly woven into the narrative, particularly in the second part, guiding audiences to "remember" the true essence of "Love" and "Fai Lok" (Happiness).

To aid the understanding of some international fans, I have translated an excerpt of the lyrics below.

*********

In the depths of your soul, recall the lost and confused.

Embrace the love that endures, never to be refused.

*********

Win and Janella are undoubtedly professional actors. What truly impresses me is the sheer intensity of emotions they convey in the movie. Their performances are perfectly nuanced, striking the right balance without going overboard. Their on-screen chemistry is so authentic that I almost forgot I was watching a movie in the cinema.

Janella flawlessly brings the character of Iris to life, effortlessly guiding the audience through a range of emotions, from smiles and laughter to tears. Her portrayal in the first part of her scenes sets a solid foundation, skillfully leading the audience into the captivating second half of the story.

Regarding Win, even though this is only his second movie in the entertainment industry, I must say he has pleasantly surprised me once again. There is no trace of his previous characters; instead, he fully embodies Sir Parin. He skillfully handles all the emotional scenes, especially in the second part of the movie. I know he is fluent in English, but acting in English, which is his second language, is a different challenge altogether. However, he handles it exceptionally well. I am certain that he has put in a lot of unseen effort before and during the shooting.

There is no doubt that many of the audience members are supporters of the two leads, and I count myself among them. That being said, I am delighted to see that even non-fans were offering compliments as I left the cinema. (I watched the movie twice; the first time was not during a special screening, so I was able to observe the reactions of some general audience members.)

******* Good things may come to an end, but new good things will arise from the endings.

Simple but meaningful, this movie offers the best takeaway.

******

When the movie was finished, I chatted with one of the family members of my friend.

"This is the craziest things I've ever done in my life.... flying all the way from Hong Kong to Manila to watch a movie!"

"But you are happy right? Fai Lok (happiness )"

The best take away of this movie. Special thanks to the two leads, Winmetawin and Janella, who delivered exceptional performances. The entire team, together with Director Sigrid Bernado and Producer Richard Juan, contributed to the film's success.

Hope this movie can be shown in more countries / cities.

21 April 2024.