"Love You So Bad": The movie that  you want to watch so badly to escape from the horrible things happening in the Philippines.

Love You So Bad paints a youthful love triangle through the intertwined lives of LA (Dustin Yu), Vic (Will Ashley), and Savannah (Bianca De Vera). 

At its core, the film captures young love—carefree, liberating, adventurous, and idealistic. It unfolds with a free-flowing rhythm that mirrors the impulsiveness and emotional highs of being young and in love, making the story both relatable and engaging for its audience.

More than just a romance, the film explores two contrasting philosophies of love: loving someone by fully accepting who she is, flaws and brokenness included, versus loving someone by pushing her to become the best version of herself—even if it means changing parts of who she is. 

The movie subtly asks an important question: Is love about transformation based on our ideals, or is it about unconditional acceptance? This emotional dilemma gives the story depth beneath its light and breezy surface.

This is undeniably a fan movie—a certified kilig experience. Star Cinema once again proves that it knows this genre by heart. Under the direction of Mae Cruz Alviar, supported by effective and heartfelt writing, the film delivers exactly what its audience hopes for. The tight close-up shots during romantic moments between Bianca De Vera and Will Ashley (WillCa), as well as Bianca and Dustin Yu (DusBia), are expertly executed. These scenes are designed to heighten every glance, smile, and unspoken emotion—enough to make moviegoers squeal and clutch their seats from all the kilig.

Beyond the romance, the three young actors from PBB Celebrity Collab Edition surprised with their dramatic performances. Will Ashley continues to prove that he has real depth as an actor, delivering emotional scenes with restraint and sincerity. Bianca De Vera shines in her portrayal of Savannah, beginning as a carefree, spoiled young girl and gradually transitioning into a more refined and self-aware woman. Her performance feels raw and honest. Dustin Yu, meanwhile, is a pleasant surprise—his dramatic scenes are emotionally effective, allowing the audience to empathize deeply with his character and internal struggles.

The film’s ending strikes a careful balance. One can’t help but wonder if this was a conscious decision by Star Cinema, GMA Films, and Regal Films to avoid disappointing either the WillCa or DusBia fandoms. While some viewers may crave a more definitive resolution, others may appreciate the fairness and restraint in how the story concludes.

One thing is certain: Will Ashley, Dustin Yu, and Bianca De Vera are poised to become the next generation of movie and television royalty. ABS-CBN, GMA, and Regal Films clearly have precious gems in their hands, and it wouldn’t be surprising to see these three dominating screens in the coming years. Their love triangle is reminiscent of the popular love triangle of the 1990s  Rico-Claudine-Diether or Wowie-Judy Ann-Rico.

Kilig. Joy. Laughter. Tears. Love You So Bad delivers all of these emotions in one satisfying package. More than just entertainment, it offers audiences a temporary escape—a much-needed breather from the political turmoil, corruption, and daily frustrations faced by Filipinos today. For at least two hours, this film allows you to forget reality and simply feel. And sometimes, that’s exactly the kind of movie we need.

My rating: 3.5/5

ctto Star Cinema, GMA Pictures, Regal Films for the poster

Bar Boys: After School delivers multiple powerful and meaningful life lessons. 

Bar Boys: After School presents multiple subplots as it follows the journeys of several characters, yet the narrative never loses its grip on the audience. Despite the many storylines, the film remains focused and never feels scattered or overwhelming.

The movie is rich in life lessons and reflective quotes that resonate long after the credits roll. The dialogues of Judge Hernandez, portrayed by Ms. Odette Khan, are crisp, realistic, and thoughtfully written, adding depth and emotional weight to the story.

The political scenes reflecting the realities in the Philippines are handled with restraint. They are not exaggerated for the sake of social relevance, making them relatable and grounded in realism.

The performances of the lead actors, Carlo Aquino and Will Ashley, are highly commendable. Their standout scenes are deeply moving and capable of bringing viewers to tears. Both actors remain fully in character throughout the film. The supporting cast also shines—Klarisse De Guzman brings light moments and laughter, Emilio Daez is effective as the young boss, while Therese Malvar and Sassa Gurl deliver solid performances. Kudos also to Bar Boys kuyas Rocco Nacino, Enzo Pineda and Kean Cipriano,

Ms. Odette Khan deserves special praise for her portrayal of a dying judge and professor. Her performance is flawless and emotionally compelling, fully justifying her win as Best Supporting Actress at the recent MMFF Awards.

The film’s cinematography and production design are executed perfectly, complementing the story and enhancing its emotional impact.

Kip Oebanda's directorial comeback movie is worth seeing this Christmas season. I would not be surprised if he wins Best Director next year in different award giving bodies. I admire Kip when he directs a film with social relevance just like BALOTA for last year's  Cinemalaya film festival. 

Overall, Bar Boys: After School is an entertaining and meaningful film that delivers powerful life lessons. It is a movie well worth watching and reflecting on.

My rating of the movie is 4.5/5

ctto 901 studios for the movie poster.