Hiram na Sandali (2025) Movie Review – Where to Watch Online
“Hiram na Sandali,” a 2025 Filipino drama directed by GB Sampedro, offers a provocative yet polarizing cinematic experience. Released on January 24, 2025, via Vivamax, the film attempts to tackle themes of love, infidelity, and regret through a series of dramatic and sensual encounters. While its narrative premise had potential, the execution has left audiences divided. This review explores the movie’s storyline, performances, production quality, and streaming options for those intrigued by this controversial title.
Plot Summary
The story centers on an ex-couple, portrayed by Vince Rillon and Denise Esteban, who accidentally meet every year at the grave of their deceased dog during its death anniversary. These chance encounters eventually rekindle a passionate relationship despite both characters being married to other people. As they navigate this forbidden romance, they are pulled into a whirlwind of drama involving annulments, death threats, familial conflicts, and infidelity.
While the film ambitiously incorporates multiple storylines, it often feels rushed and fragmented. In just over an hour, the movie crams in numerous tropes—ranging from sibling rivalries to workplace struggles—without adequately exploring any of them. This lack of cohesion significantly hampers the emotional depth and connection the audience might have otherwise felt.
Performances and Characters
The cast, including Vince Rillon, Denise Esteban, Dyessa Garcia, Aerol Carmelo, and Ara Altamira, deliver performances that, while earnest, fail to convey the weight of the film’s themes. The chemistry between the lead characters is notably absent, which diminishes the believability of their passionate reunion. Dialogue delivery often feels forced, and key emotional moments fall flat due to a lack of authenticity.
Dyessa Garcia’s performance, in particular, drew attention from viewers who believed her character’s potential was underutilized. Despite her strong screen presence, her role was overshadowed by underwhelming character development and lackluster dialogue.
Cinematography and Editing
Visually, “Hiram na Sandali” struggles to leave a lasting impression. The cinematography relies heavily on slow-motion shots, especially during the film’s intimate scenes, which feel repetitive and fail to elevate the narrative. The background music, reminiscent of Aiyo’s melancholic tunes, adds some emotional resonance but often feels overused.
Editing is another weak point. Transitions are dominated by fade-to-black effects, which disrupt the flow and further emphasize the film’s disjointed structure. Scenes jump abruptly from one highlight to another, leaving viewers with an incomplete picture of the characters’ journeys.
Audience Reception
“Hiram na Sandali” has garnered mixed to negative reviews from audiences and critics alike. Many expressed disappointment over the film’s reliance on clichéd storytelling and its failure to evoke genuine emotion. Comments on social media highlight the lack of chemistry between the characters, the minimal effort in choreographing the sensual scenes, and the overuse of teleserye tropes.
Some viewers criticized the film for its apparent lack of narrative direction, calling it a compilation of loosely connected scenes rather than a cohesive story. Others pointed out the uninspired editing and transitions, which contributed to the film’s overall lackluster quality.
Where to Watch “Hiram na Sandali” Online
For those interested in watching “Hiram na Sandali,” the film is exclusively available on Vivamax. Vivamax is a subscription-based streaming service offering a wide range of Filipino films and series. Subscriptions are accessible to viewers in the United States, the Philippines, and other regions, making it convenient for Filipino movie enthusiasts worldwide.
In addition to streaming, Vivamax also offers options for renting or purchasing films for those who prefer not to subscribe long-term. “Hiram na Sandali” can be accessed through their official website or app.
Final Thoughts
“Hiram na Sandali” had the potential to deliver a compelling narrative about love and second chances but fell short due to its scattered storytelling and underdeveloped characters. While the film may appeal to fans of melodrama or those curious about its controversial themes, it ultimately leaves much to be desired in terms of depth and execution.
That said, “Hiram na Sandali” serves as a reminder of the importance of cohesive storytelling and authentic performances in creating a memorable cinematic experience. If you decide to watch it, approach it with tempered expectations.
If you’re intrigued by the premise of “Hiram na Sandali” and want to explore more Filipino films, subscribe to Vivamax today! Discover a wide range of dramas, comedies, and classics that showcase the rich storytelling traditions of Philippine cinema. Don’t miss out on the latest releases and exclusive content—sign up now!