User reviews

The number of perfect score reviews here is hilarious. Kinda shows who didn't actually watch the movie.

Too many tight shots, making it harder to appreciate the beauty of HK, especially considering they tried to showcase parts of it that aren't your typical tourist destination.

The story is disjointed and feels like it wasn't sure what direction it wanted to go in at several points of the movie - which is strange considering the plot was pretty predictable.

Soundtrack felt very, very lacking. There were several scenes that could have benefited from stronger scores to better depict the emotions the actors were trying to portray.

There's practically zero chemistry between Iris and Parin. I don't know if that had to do with Win seeming to struggle with his lines in English (was it because of the character? Because we know Win is pretty good at English, but that was not the impression I got watching Parin), or they just really do mesh together better in person and out of character than on-screen.

Giving this a score of two because Win and Janella score a star each for being incredibly good-looking, though.

I'm genuinely confused by all the 10/10 reviews. Did we watch the same movie? I had high hopes going in because I really like the cast, but the male lead didn't deliver his lines well. It felt like English might not be his first language, which made it hard for him to fully convey the emotions needed for his role.

On top of that, there was zero chemistry between the leads. They came across more like friends than romantic partners, with no real sense of attraction. I'm not sure if that was intentional, but it made the romance feel flat and uninspired.

The storyline also lost its way midway through, and I couldn't tell what direction they were aiming for. I can usually enjoy a poorly produced show if it has other redeeming elements like comedy or strong chemistry between the leads, but unfortunately, this film had none of that. Overall, it just wasn't enjoyable.

Cross cultural love story between a Thai and a Filipina, chemistry was so natural. This movie will make your heart flutter multiple times all throughout the movie. I have not felt so invested in a pairing for such a long time. Win and Janella made me see the beauty of falling inlove in a strange city and choosing to decide for your own happiness.

Hongkong was showcased in a different level. Pengchau is an island not many tourist knows, but because of this movie everyone will be interested to discover quaint places in hong kong and will help boost the country's tourism.

Definitely a must watch movie this 2024.

The story is pretty simple, nothing much to expect. Not bad but also not that good. The acting is okay, but could be too much and awkward at some scene. Now let's talk about the writing, it is sooo horrible, the lines are just too cheesy at times, the plot advance too fast, it's like they're trying to shoved a 2 hours storyline into the 1 hour something screentime. The side characters acting definitely needs more improvement.

Also the scoring is just not enough, there's a lot of scene that definitely would be better with the help of scoring and other parts where it is not so necessary but they used it.

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.

Both the lead actors are very beautiful. That's the only good point about this movie. The lead actor feels so uncomfortable with his English dialogue that it feels like his whole concentration is on that only so that he misses out on creating any chemistry with the leading lady. Like you would never believe they are lovers. Maybe because he's a Thai actor and English is not his strong point. They do kiss in the movie but there is not even one bit of emotion in that kiss. Have never seen such a lame kiss on the big screen. On top of it, the story goes nowhere. Total waste of time. Please stay away and save your money.

Win and Janella has this undeniable chemistry that radiates out of the sceeen. Albeit using different languages in the film, they were tastefully done and showed the multicultural backgrounds not only of the characters but the location which was Hong Kong.

Beautifully shot cinematography, may it be a long shot of the sceneries of Hong Kong but also on cramped spaces where Parin and Iris pour their hearts out. You are immersed on every set.

It is not your typical take of Filipino movie romance. It was like you are also experiencing their journey. A lot of lessons to take away from, on how happiness is defined by each person.

This movie is the one you shouldn't miss! Trust Director Sigrid to create a movie that will linger on you for God knows how long.

I didn't expect that the lead actors have the best chemistry ever knowing they are of different cultures.

This is a movie that will let you immerse into different cultures and will let you enjoy Hongkong's hidden scenic spots. This will also teach you values about life and love in the most realistic way.

The movie has so many notable quotes you can apply in real life. It'll give you new meaning about sunrise and sunsets. After you watch this movie, you'll never look at sunsets and sunrises the same way again.

This is a feel good movie but with a twist you'll never expect it! Watch now if you haven't yet!

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.

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!

"Under Parallel Skies" certainly delivers on all fronts, an avid movie lover would look for. This thought-provoking masterpiece not only captivates the audience with its compelling storyline but also leaves a profound impression that lingers long after the credits roll.

One of the standout elements of the film is the impeccable chemistry between the lead actors, Win Metawin and Janella Salvador. Their on-screen presence is electrifying, drawing viewers into their characters' emotional journey and making every scene feel authentic and deeply resonant.

What truly sets "Under Parallel Skies" apart is its ability to provoke introspection and spark meaningful conversations. The film explores complex themes with nuance and depth, challenging viewers to contemplate the intricacies of human relationships and the consequences of our choices.

I find myself eagerly anticipating its release on OTT platforms. The prospect of rewatching my favorite scenes and delving deeper into the intricacies of the story is something I eagerly look forward to. "Under Parallel Skies" is undoubtedly a film that begs to be revisited, with each viewing promising new insights and revelations.

In conclusion, "Under Parallel Skies" is a cinematic tour de force that leaves an indelible mark on the viewer's soul. I wholeheartedly recommend it to anyone seeking a truly unforgettable movie experience.

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.

This movie is 10 out of 10! Its very Derik Sigrid signature kind of movie. A roller coaster ride of emotion as you will laugh and cry while watching. Actors have overpowering chemistry, you will feel their connection, the love that they have for each other. It was beautiful. Janella and Win bring life to Iris and Parin. I still feel the kilig and also the pain. Cinematography is lit. The movie gives you a different side of Hong Kong. Dialogues added spice to the movie. You will get a lot of quotable quotes in the end. You will also be wondering what is your fai lok. A must watch movie right now.

One of the main highlights of this film is the natural chemistry exuded by Janella Salvador and Win Metawin. When watching movies, I believe that the usual basis of how strong an actor and actress's chemistry heavily relies on how excessive their expression are in expressing their character's love to one another. But after watching Under Parallel Skies, both Win and Janella have proven through their characters that love can be shown and felt in other ways and most especially in the most simplest and mundane moments with your partner. I cannot express enough how effective the acting of these two are in portraying themselves as characters falling in love.

I believe Direk Sigrid Bernardo took so much pride in talking about how she asked both Win and Janella to convince her that their characters were very much in love, and upon seeing the movie I can understand why she takes pride in that aspect of her characters in the movie. Watching Win and Janella on screen felt like watching a real couple naturally grow into their relationship. As mentioned before, I believe there is no other Thai actor apart from Win Metawin that could've given the character the same feel that Win has given. To Parin. Same way that I believe that there is no other actress that could have portrayed this role as seamlessly as Janella Salvador. Both these actors showed the beauty in subtlety while keeping everyone at the edge of their seats with the twist and turns.

If I could give any critique, it would be in regards to the pacing of the story. I believe that there were moments that felt very abrupt and I wished could've been presented in a way that the audience could digest the beauty of these character's relationships longer. As I also initially stated, if you are an international fan watching the work of Direk Sigrid Bernardo, I highly suggest reviewing her previous works such as "Kita Kita" in order to gain a much in depth understanding on her stories and directing style.

Cinematopgraphy is very impressive, brings the most beautiful colors of Hong Kong and it's very pleasant to watch. The director did an amazing job with every single take in this movie.

The connection of Parin & Iris immerses you in their story to another level!

The story was rich in emotions, evoking tears, laughter and love.

Under Parallel Skies" really brings the three cultures into one.

The film sheds light on the sacrifices made by individuals who leave their families behind for work.

Win Metawin as Parin is really great. It's so different with his previous roles before and I feel his emotions as Parin. I feel his longing.. Sadness and loneliness.

In this captivating film, Win delivers a performance brimming with emotion and depth, showcasing a new facet of his acting prowess. His portrayal is a revelation, drawing viewers into the complexities of his character with a compelling authenticity that is truly remarkable.

One of the most striking aspects of the film is the seamless language switching between English, Thai, Filipino, and even some Cantonese by both Janella and Win. This linguistic dexterity adds layers to the characters and their interactions, making them feel all the more real and relatable. It's a testament to the actors' skill and dedication to their craft that they are able to navigate these linguistic nuances with such finesse.

Moreover, the film offers a fresh perspective on Hong Kong, showcasing the city in a different light. Through its lens, we discover new and unexpected spots that challenge the typical portrayal of Hong Kong in mainstream media. This refreshing take adds depth to the film's setting, making it feel like a character in its own right.

The dialogue in the film is another standout element, characterized by its well-crafted nature and metaphoric richness. The conversations are not just exchanges of words but deep reflections on life, love, and the human experience. There is an almost existential quality to the dialogues, inviting viewers to ponder their own existence and place in the world.

Overall, this film is a triumph on multiple fronts. From Win's captivating performance to the film's innovative use of language and its unique portrayal of Hong Kong, it is a cinematic experience that lingers long after the credits roll. The dialogues, in particular, stand out for their depth and philosophical nature, elevating the film beyond a mere entertainment piece to a thought-provoking work of art.

I can't find words how to describe this movie. The headline of my review sum it up. It's crazy to think this is Metawin and Janella first project together. They are both deliver acting and chemistry.

This film has everything, romance, comedy, drama, angst, u name it they have it all. Anyone would agree it isn't enough to watch it one time, cos after the film finish u crave to watch it again and again. The cinematography is so chef's kiss, Hongkong is so beautifully shot through the films cameras.

The thing is, u have to actually watch it and experience it yourself to get that amazing feeling because it's hard to describe it with words how beautiful this film is. Kudos to Win, Janella, and the team. Definitely worth to watch film.

Waiting for the release in online streaming platforms!

I was very impressed when I watched the movie! Win Metawin (Parin) was able to express his emotion of sadness, happiness and even his frustration with minimal effort. Definitely a less is more kind of acting. No need for overt acting. Janella (Iris) was also very good in showing her happiness, pain and even her 'kilig' moments and it communicated to the audience. The cinematography was top notch as is expected of their director, it showcased the majesty of place where it was shot at And I was really glad that ~director Sigrid was able to pull those kinds of emotions from both leads. The story itself was simple, but in its simplicity made it really relatable in all essence. We can feel their love, their sadness and their frustration at their situation. Love this movie! Hoping that other fans worldwide can see it, it deserves to be seen!

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.

#UnderParallelSkies is so BEAUTIFUL i cried so much! The story, cinematography was so good! The way Jea and Win embodies Iris & Parin was so heartfelt, holding on to their diff emotions till the end, I couldn't wish for another ending!

And @winmetawin, oh boy! So proud of you i cried my heart out! You outdid yourself this time! I think it takes a wonderful story and a generous director in Direk Sigrid to bring out the right amount of emotions from you! Win is Parin! Janella Salvador is another breed of talent! The dynamics your character brought into the movie was much-needed! Jea is Iris! Thank you also for being so giving to Win! A must watch!

Watched the film 2x but the feelings remain unchanged. Good casting, story, cinematography,etc. World class. Undeniable chemistry between the lead actor/actress.

Shows Hongkong at its finest. The dialogues between the lead stars are funny, and makes you giddy. Never experience boredom because the flow of the story glues you to your seat and makes you eager to see what's next. The kissing scenes between the leads feel surreal like they're so in love with each other. Have to commend the bartender though, good acting also. My fave scene, when Win said "the filipino bad word". You have to watch this film multiple times to fully appreciate it. Congratulations to the whole team.

1. The Story and Cinematography

At its core, it's a classic love story, but what sets it apart is its authentic portrayal of love in its purest form-raw, genuine, and unapologetically real.

The title itself, "Under Parallel Skies," serves as a reminder for us that no matter where we are in the world, we all share the same sky above us. In this shared space, Iris and Parin found solace, connection, and ultimately, a deep and profound love that defies all odds.

Iris and Parin's love story unfolds organically, devoid of exaggerated displays of affection. Instead, their connection is built upon shared moments. From their initial encounters filled with playful banters to the tender moments of silent understanding, the relationship between Iris and Parin feels incredibly genuine-like a breath of fresh air amidst a sea of clichés.

Aside from Parin and Iris' love story, I also couldn't help but be mesmerized by the breathtaking landscapes of Hong Kong. The movie was able to show the serene, hidden corners in Hong Kong, which is a side of Hong Kong that I had never seen before. It made me appreciate its beauty in a whole new light.