I might just find myself watching Almost Us again in theaters this weekend. No, this isn’t a paid review. Hinatak lang talaga ako ng friend ko to cover a block screening, but surprisingly, I walked out genuinely entertained.
What stood out first was the smoothness of the storytelling. The film doesn’t try too hard to be overly complex. It’s simple, direct, and easy to follow, which actually works in its favor. There’s a certain charm in how the narrative unfolds, allowing the characters and their moments to breathe.
Speaking of characters, Fyang is effortlessly natural on screen. Her comedic timing feels organic, and she delivers her lines with a kind of ease that makes you forget you’re watching a performance. Meanwhile, JM continues to impress. I already appreciated him in Shake, Rattle & Roll last year, but he levels up here, showing more range and presence. Together, JM and Fyang carry the entire film, and thankfully, they do it well.
Their chemistry is undeniable, the kind that makes a romantic comedy work. Almost Us hits that classic romcom formula. It’s fun, it’s funny, and yes, it’s nakakakilig. What makes it even better is how effortless the humor and kilig feel. Walang pilit, walang awkward beats, just genuine, feel good moments that land.
That said, the film isn’t without its flaws. There are moments, especially toward the end, that might leave you thinking, “Anyare?” Some scenes feel unnecessary, almost as if they were added without fully serving the story. They don’t completely derail the film, but they do slightly disrupt its otherwise smooth flow.
Still, I have to give credit where it’s due. I liked the ending. It took a more grounded, realistic approach instead of going full cinematic fantasy. Though personally, I would’ve loved a more poetic conclusion, maybe ending it habang nauulanan sila. As one line in the film, non verbatim, suggests, “Bakit ba tingin niyo romantic ang ulan?” Precisely that. There’s something undeniably romantic about rain, and it could’ve been a beautiful visual punctuation to the story. But instead, the film chooses a safer, more realistic closure, and that works too depending on your taste.
On the technical side, while the storytelling remains consistent, I do wish the cinematography matched that same level throughout. There are moments where it shines, but it isn’t always sustained.
Overall, Almost Us is a solid romcom that delivers what it promises. It’s light, entertaining, and anchored by two leads who know exactly what they’re doing. Napatawa ako ni Fyang, natuwa ako kay JM, at yes, ang pogi ni Dustin. More than anything, it’s a film that reminds you why the genre works when done right.
Rating: 4/5
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