Once the temperatures drop during the holidays, going out for a sweet movie date would seem to be a lot more appealing, as there’s just something about the cold weather and the holiday season that has us feeling a little more lovey-dovey than usual. And that is precisely why December is the perfect month to watch romantic Christmas movies at the Metro Manila Film Festival! Combine that with a twist of comedy to make the vibe appear on a lighter tone by assuring loud laughs from the audience.
“Labyu With an Accent” is a Romantic-Comedy film directed by Malu Sevilla & Rodel P. Nacianceno and written by Patrick Valencia. Serving as Star Cinema’s entry for the 48th Metro Manila Film Festival, the movie follows the story of Trisha (Jodi Sta. Maria), an expatriate worker who has been living in the USA for 20 years & Gabo (Coco Martin), a man from the Philippines who has been working different jobs to make ends meet. The two will eventually cross paths when Trisha returns to the country to deal with a recent break up.
The plot of this movie is made for the typical masses to relate and enjoy a good time of funnily smirking, and romantically giggling. The story is written in a way in which complexity is absolutely refrained. It has a balanced tone of presenting the funnier sides of the story as well as the more serious ones. The movie also did a fantastic job at showcasing the cultural difference of what it feels like to be a migrant at the USA. In spite of its intended lighter theme, there were still some bitter reminders about love in its rawest form is simply not enough to survive, as we really do have to be practical. Another reminder is that what could also work in the Philippines in terms of being resourceful may not always work in America.
The movie is recommended for those who likes to enjoy the balance of romance and comedy. In spite of how simple the plot is, lessons can still be garnered from the movie. There are moments throughout the film that will make anyone giggle out of romantic excitement, enough to spread warmth for the heart of the audience. Dirty jokes and a bit of foul language however are also present in the film so viewer discretion is advised.
