That Kind of Love (2024) Movie Review: A Beautifully Flawed Romance
In the romantic drama That Kind of Love (2024), directed by Catherine Camarillo, we are introduced to a love story that is as imperfect as it is heartfelt. The film, starring the popular pairing of Barbie Forteza and David Licauco, known affectionately by fans as “BarDa,” seeks to capture the magic of love amidst the complexities of life. With a running time of over two hours, the movie attempts to explore the many facets of relationships, though not without its flaws.
Plot and Character Dynamics
The narrative follows the lives of Sophie (Barbie Forteza) and Ethan (David Licauco), two individuals navigating the tumultuous waters of love. Sophie, a character who embodies the strength and vulnerability of modern women, finds herself drawn to Ethan, whose expressive eyes and subtle gestures reveal a depth of emotion that words often fail to capture. As they grow closer, the film shifts focus from its initial imperfections to the undeniable chemistry between the two leads.
While the film’s pacing could have benefited from tighter editing—there are moments that feel unnecessarily prolonged—the strength of That Kind of Love lies in its ability to convey genuine emotion. The movie’s dialogue, while sometimes stilted, manages to resonate in key moments, particularly towards the end when earlier lines take on new meaning. The tension and connection between Sophie and Ethan breathe life into the story, making the audience root for their love to prevail.
Performance Highlights
Barbie Forteza shines in her role, using her expressive eyes to convey a range of emotions without needing to rely heavily on dialogue. David Licauco complements her performance, his facial expressions adding layers to his character that words alone could not. Their on-screen chemistry is the true highlight of the film, creating moments of tension and joy that elevate the entire viewing experience.
Supporting performances from Divine Aucina and Kaila Estrada also deserve mention. Aucina brings comic relief at just the right moments, while Estrada, despite limited screen time, leaves a lasting impression with her portrayal of a key character. The film’s ending, though it arrives after a somewhat meandering journey, offers a satisfying conclusion that underscores the depth of the characters’ connection.
Direction and Cinematic Choices
Director Catherine Camarillo, whose previous work includes Chances Are, You And I, makes a subtle nod to her earlier film with a cameo appearance by one of its characters. This gesture, while not critical to the plot, adds a layer of charm for those familiar with her previous work. However, similar to her debut, That Kind of Love suffers from a runtime that could have been trimmed to create a more concise and impactful narrative.
Despite these pacing issues, Camarillo succeeds in crafting a film that, at its core, is about the importance of chemistry in relationships. The movie’s title is fitting—That Kind of Love indeed explores a love that is flawed, real, and worth fighting for.
Where to Watch That Kind of Love (2024) Online
For those eager to experience the magic of That Kind of Love (2024), there are several options to watch the movie online. In the United States, the film is available on popular streaming services like:
- Amazon Prime Video: You can rent or purchase the movie here, allowing for convenient viewing at home.
- Apple TV: Another great platform where the movie can be rented or bought, providing high-quality streaming options.
- Google Play Movies: Offers both rental and purchase options, making it accessible for a wider audience.
- Vudu: Known for its vast library, Vudu also offers this film for both rental and purchase.
Final Thoughts
That Kind of Love (2024) is not without its flaws, but it brings a unique kind of happiness to those who watch it. The chemistry between Barbie Forteza and David Licauco is undeniable, and it is this connection that ultimately saves the movie from its narrative shortcomings. As the film draws to a close, the audience is left with a sense of fulfillment, having witnessed a love story that, while imperfect, is deeply relatable.
For those who appreciate romantic dramas that delve into the intricacies of love, That Kind of Love is certainly worth the watch.
Cast: Barbie Forteza, David Licauco, Al Tantay, Arlene Muhlach, Kaila Estrada, Ivan Carapiet, Jef Gaitan, Divine Aucina
Screenplay by: Ellis Catrina
Presented by: PM Productions Inc, Happy Infinite, Regal Entertainment
Release Date: July 10, 2024, in Philippine cinemas nationwide
By focusing on the genuine connection between its leads and offering a storyline that resonates with the complexities of real-life love, That Kind of Love is a film that, despite its imperfections, deserves a chance to be seen and felt by a wider audience.
