REVIEW: Exes are Exes for a reason in Joshua Garcia and Julia Barretto’s ‘Un/Happy For You’

Joshua Garcia and Julia Barretto proved their chemistry still works even after parting ways in their reunion film by Star Cinema and Viva Films, Un/Happy For You.

Joshua and Julia play an ex couple who recall the joy and pain of the past. Joshua takes on the role of Juancho, an ambitious chef with dreams of introducing the spicy flavors of Bicol to Manila. His character’s journey intertwines, again, with Zy, played by Julia, a New York-based writer who returns to the Philippines to complete her research on Filipino cuisine. 

The film opens with a nostalgic reintroduction to their previous tandem, JoshLia, where the narrative explores their shared history through a mix of sweet recollections and bitter and awkward encounters. 

Joshua's portrayal of Juancho is marked by a blend of humor and pain, capturing his character’s struggle with lingering resentment. His interactions with Zy and the whole Casa Rosa restaurant team highlighted the conflict between personal vendettas and professional aspirations.

Julia’s performance as Zy, on the other hand, brings a layer of emotional insight. Her character's confrontation scenes with Juancho are particularly striking, underscoring the realization that some relationships are better left in the past and exes are exes for a reason.

Julia's delivery of her lines conveys the complex emotions tied to love and moving on. Her line, “I hate loving you so much,” encapsulates the conflict stemming from bittersweet memories and an unresolved past.

The film also somewhat blends fiction with reality, making the audience feel as though they are really witnessing a real confrontation and reconciliation of past lovers given the personal history between its lead stars. It also addresses relatable themes of being “marupok” and emotional complexity, resonating with viewers who have experienced similar situations with their ex.

Additionally, Un/Happy For You also puts the spotlight on the vibrant culture and culinary traditions of Bicol, adding an appealing dimension to the story. The film’s focus on local dishes serves as both a cultural celebration and a mechanism for the characters’ interactions.

The banter between other characters also tackle the complexities of having a former couple interact with each other again. 

The film’s use of lighting sets the perfect mood for every scene. The warm lighting during flashback scenes effectively frame the scenes.

The direction in the final scene is also very commendable as it captures the nuanced emotions of Joshua and Julia’s characters through their eyes without the need of any words. The scene also symbolizes the difference between a definitive end and a pause in their story.

Un/Happy For You is the best reunion film for Joshua and Julia that not only shows their undying chemistry but also mirrors the "happy and unhappy" reality of love that has ended. 

READ: Joshua Garcia, Julia Barretto reunite in romance-drama film, ‘Un/happy For You’