US x HER (2022) Movie Review
Directed by: Jules Katanyag
Cast: Kiko Estrada, AJ Raval, Angeli Khang
Presented by: Viva Films
Release Date: November 25, 2022 (via Vivamax)
US x HER (2022), directed by Jules Katanyag, is a film that attempts to explore complex themes of love, betrayal, and identity but falls short of delivering a coherent narrative. The movie stars Kiko Estrada, AJ Raval, and Angeli Khang, three of the most prominent figures in the Vivamax roster, yet even their combined star power couldn’t save this film from its convoluted execution.
Plot Overview
The movie revolves around three main characters—a social media influencer, a businessman, and a “plantita”—each with their own personal baggage. Instead of diving deep into their backstories or motivations, the film opts for a superficial approach, often resorting to overly dramatic dialogues and theatrical sequences to move the plot forward.
At its core, US x HER is supposed to be a commentary on modern relationships, yet it misses the mark by focusing too much on style over substance. The film is filled with flashy lights, stage play-like scenes, and a soundtrack that, while appealing, feels misplaced given the lack of emotional depth in the narrative.
Character Development (Or Lack Thereof)
One of the major flaws of US x HER is its failure to develop its characters in a meaningful way. The audience is introduced to each character’s basic persona—the influencer, the businessman, and the plantita—but never really gets to know them. Their struggles with gender identity, drug addiction, and sexual consent are touched upon only in passing, leaving these crucial issues underexplored and unresolved.
The characters’ dialogue is filled with “hugot” lines—emotional quips designed to resonate with the audience—but these lines often feel forced and out of place. Instead of giving insight into the characters’ inner worlds, they come across as scripted attempts to evoke emotion without the necessary context or build-up.
Thematic Inconsistencies
While the movie attempts to tackle various social issues, it does so in a way that feels more like a checklist than a thoughtful exploration. Feminism, for instance, is mentioned in the story, but the female characters are not portrayed with the depth or respect that such a theme demands. The actresses, while talented, are given roles that feel more like caricatures than fully fleshed-out individuals, which diminishes the impact of the feminist message.
The movie also touches on themes of infidelity and deception, yet the way these themes are handled leaves much to be desired. Instead of offering a nuanced take on why the characters act the way they do, the film simplifies their actions to the point where they become difficult to empathize with. This lack of clarity makes it hard for the audience to understand the motivations behind their behavior, which in turn weakens the overall narrative.
Cinematic Style Over Substance
Visually, US x HER is a film that doesn’t shy away from experimentation. It incorporates elements of stage plays and employs a vibrant color palette that makes each scene visually striking. However, these stylistic choices often feel more like distractions than enhancements to the story. The reliance on theatricality and exaggerated visuals overshadows the film’s attempt at emotional storytelling, making it difficult to connect with the characters or the plot.
The movie’s soundtrack, while well-composed, often feels out of place given the scenes it accompanies. Instead of reinforcing the emotional tone of the film, the music sometimes creates a disconnect, further distancing the audience from the narrative.
Where to Watch Online:
US x HER is available for streaming exclusively on Vivamax, a popular platform for Filipino films and series. The movie is also available for rent or purchase on digital platforms like iTunes and Google Play in the United States. If you’re looking to explore Filipino cinema, Vivamax is your go-to platform for this and other local titles.
Conclusion
US x HER (2022) had the potential to be a powerful film that delves into the intricacies of modern relationships and social issues. However, its over-reliance on style, combined with weak character development and thematic inconsistencies, ultimately undermines its impact. The film feels more like a collection of ideas rather than a cohesive story, leaving the audience with more questions than answers.
For fans of the lead actors or those curious about Vivamax’s latest offerings, US x HER might be worth a watch. However, for those seeking a movie with depth and a clear narrative, this film may leave you wanting more.
