My review of the reunion movie

A Journey is number one now on Netflix, kicking off Rewind after more than a month. I won’t deny that I cried watching it, which is something you can expect from a movie with the title tag “cancer”. I understand the fascination for the film which starred the famous teen actors of the 90’s. The scene reminiscent of Tabing Ilog really hit the mark.

The nostalgia was profound. The story is cliche, and I know this has been told too many times in the past: knowing you’re near death and fulfilling your bucket list. Yeah, remember The Bucket List? But I enjoyed it nevertheless. I just wasn’t jumping with delight though. Patrick Garcia’s extended hiatus from the screen seems to have affected his performance. His delivery in some scenes felt stiff, raising questions about the legitimacy of the award he received at the film’s conclusion. Or was it an irony?

With regards to the script, I wonder if it’s just me or is it too bland? The lines seemed too familiar and unoriginal. It could have been improved. Don’t ask me how; I’m no scriptwriter. Among all the actors, it’s Paolo Contis who really carried the scenes. He can be goofy, angry, and dramatic in the most unique ways. Kaye Abad did well, her screen presence was enough to trigger normalcy.

The choice of Jimmy Santos as Shane’s father was a wise move for the casting director. His personal story of moving to Canada resonated subliminally. My favorite scene? Ogie Alcasid’s performance to deliver Dito sa Puso Ko while dancing. It made me laugh.

The story, which took a different turn, surprised me. I didn’t expect it. Just like how Rewind’s story raised my eyebrow. Now, I would expect every Filipino sob story to have the same flow. It was just too soon.

For me, the last scene with Desiree del Valle seemed forced. I didn’t think it was necessary. But then again, why not exploit Tabing Ilog since they’re already at it? I guess if it would have been Jodi Sta. Maria, it would have made a much more significant impact.

Another thing, what’s with the title? A Journey? to where? It just didn’t seem to fit. By the way, Shane’s coffeeshop business Cafe Luca is one we’ve been to. It’s located in Lagro. This is not shameless plugging, but their coffee is worth a try, and the ambience is nice, especially at night.

All in all, it was an okay film. Nothing extraordinary. I wasn’t wowed. Not the same effect Through Night and Day did for me. But then again, that was Alessandra De Rossi. Need I say more? To sum it up, I don’t think nostalgia is enough to impress people these days. You have to level it up.