A unique & emotional storytelling angle that fails to meet its potential
Five Breakups and a Romance is a Filipino romance about the love story of an aspiring fashion designer, Justine, and an aspiring doctor, Lance. The two lovers have a chance encounter in Singapore when Justine’s best friend visits a concert accompanied by a group of her friends, including her then-boyfriend’s best friend, Lance. All the other attendees are coupled up; therefore, Lance and Justine could not avoid hanging out together after the concert since they were the only singles in the group.
The romance begins when sparks fly, and they have what Justine thought was a one-night stand, but Lance stays longer and pursues Justine. The film focuses on the highlights of their love story through the breakups and makeups, hence the title “Five Breakups and a Romance.”
The narrative chronicles the key points of Lance and Justine’s relationship, concentrating on their union and breakups, but it does not show the background or the development of their love story. In some ways, theatrical storytelling works because the script only focuses on the emotional aspects of the romantic journey and how it affects the main characters’ lives. Although some relationship dramas involve the support casts, the writers briefly mention this as a filler for the chapters and timelines but do not take away from the main story.
On the other hand, concentrating on specific highlights does not show the whole relationship’s progress, which is confusing. The narrative pacing feels off, and the audience misses out on the drama, which is most times the highlight of a good romantic movie. Similarly, failing to show the relationship’s raw emotional development robs viewers of the chance to experience the chemistry between the characters. Moreover, the dialogues are lacking as they do not flow naturally, and it always feels like something is missing.
Regardless, Lance and Justine deliver impressive and captivating performances in the movie. Lance is a privileged rich kid, and even though the movie does not show him flaunting his wealth, it can be seen in his mannerisms. Justine is simple-minded from a middle-class background but has an aura of a professional determined to follow her dreams. She is a risk taker and brave as she gives the relationship her all, pouring all her emotions and pain, which the audience can feel through the emotional scenes.
Lance and Justine had incredible potential to deliver something great in this film, as their intimate scenes are magical and emotional when they fight and show vulnerability. However, the script does not allow them to develop the chemistry, giving Justine and Lance a difficult time bringing the characters to life, but they do a considerable job.
Although the supporting cast fades to the background in the latter part of the movie as it zeroes in on Lance and Justine, the interactions with Justine’s family are an exciting twist.
Overall, Five Breakups and a Romance is an emotional movie with unique and refreshing storytelling that unfortunately fails to reach its potential. The audience does not get to witness the raw emotional vicissitudes but highlights significant unions and breakups. Regardless, the film is entertaining and worth the watch.
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Verdict - 6/10
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