Just finished watching the movie ‘The Reunion‘ under Star Cinema. The new barkada movie features four of ABS-CBN’s fast-rising leading men namely Xian Lim, Enrique Gil, Kean Cipriano and Enchong Dee. To spice things up, beautiful ladies Jessy Mendiola, Megan Young, Bangs Garcia and Julia montes are included in the cast. Cristine Reyes also had a short but important appearance in the film.

The Reunion – Are barkada movies finally back for good?

Before Star Cinema became the Rom-Com Hub of Philippine movies, they used to produce a number of barkada films. Even Viva and Regal have some barkada movies under their belt (Thanks to TGIS and GIMIK barkada, I guess LOL). It is nice to know that Star Cinema came up with this film and what made it more special is the fact that they featured a lot of Eraserheads songs in the movie.

When I first saw the trailer, I got excited. I can see the chemistry between the four leads and it seems like their characters are tailor-made for them. Surprisingly, the leading ladies were also competent to their male counterparts.

Teleserye favorites Enrique Gil and Julia Montes lightens up

I’m glad that Star Cinema hired Frasco Mortiz, a young director to be the head of the film. The movie made me feel nostalgic on some of the things that happened during my high school years. I admire how the scriptwriters were able to fuse the songs of Eraserheads to the scenes in the movie. In high school, most of my friends would listen to Eraserheads, Rivermaya and Parokya ni Edgar. We would sing some of their songs during class breaks or even during our weekend meet-ups.

The names of the female characters were based on the songs of Eheads too – Toyang (Megan Young), Ligaya (Julia Montes), Shirley (Bangs Garcia) and Ali (Jessy Mendiola – from the song Alipaap). Wait, Julie Tearjerky (Alodia Gosiengfiao) and Aling Nena (Gina Pareno) were there too!

The supporting characters were good too. Ronnie Lazaro is a real shotgun daddy, Tom Rodriguez acted like a real boastful antagonist, Cristine Reyes is a bit ‘tamed’ as Ara, Janus del Prado makes a good comic timing as usual and Matt Evans really looked adorable as the gay bestfriend of Ali. He actually reminded me of one blogger who is very close to me 😛

Kean Cipriano and Bangs Garcia – My favorite among the four pairs

Which tandem made me really ‘kilig’ while watching them onscreen? I’d say the Kean Cipriano – Bangs Garcia loveteam. I love how Shirley’s transformation from a manang to a sexy model. I’m glad that they didn’t add much drama on this part.

Megan Young and Xian Lim are in-charge of the ‘serious’ part

Speaking of drama, I can say that Xian Lim’s part here is the most heartwarming. Some guys can surely relate to him especially those who have some regrets in the past – not just in the love aspects, but life in general. Enchong Dee’s realization about his feelings for Jessy Mendiola is the main highlight of the movie. Jessy Mendiola’s presence reminded me of Kristine Hermosa. I smiled on the first part of Enrique Gil and Julia Montes’ love angle, but the latter part felt like I am watching a teleserye. Not a bad thing, but they can do better.

Enchong Dee and Jessy Mendiola – From Friends to Lovers

All in all, the movie succeeded in the ‘feel-good’ goal for the moviegoers. I am thinking of watching it again with friends since it is light and relatable. There are parts wherein I remember some friends from the past who were in their situation.I’m glad Star Cinema did this project. It is refreshing and a mix of everything. I have to say that my top three favorite scenes includes a dog chase scene, a pictorial and the airport. The music did really contribute a lot to make this film a delightful one.

If you want to take a break from work and stress, I suggest that you watch this movie. It is also nice to reminisce about high school life while listening to Eraserheads’ youthful songs. And yes, the good-looking leads will make you smile. Teehee. Kilig lang 😛

Have you seen The Reunion? If yes, what can you say about the film? Who among the cast members do you like the most?