A bartender and a domestic helper of Filipino origin living in Hong Kong find themselves falling in love, but they each have different plans for their future.
Hello, Love, Goodbye (C) Netflix
One might expect that the integral question in this film is: "What happens to the love?" But Hello, Love, Goodbye bravely asks a different one: "What about Joy?" Choosing to focus the story on Joy (played by Kathryn Bernardo) was the best decision the film could have made. Make no mistake, love is all over the place here, but the film explores various kinds of love, and that choice ultimately proves to be for the best.
Joy is a three-dimensional character, and the film thankfully takes the time to introduce us to her world in Hong Kong, powered by a commendable work from director of cinematography Noel Teehankee. It feels incredibly authentic—almost like watching Sunday Beauty Queen, a brilliant documentary about OFWs in Hong Kong, all over again. The family dynamic resonates clearly too. The screenplay by Carmi G. Raymundo, Rona Co, Crystal S. San Miguel, and Cathy Garcia-Molina during these parts is inspired. Kathryn Bernardo delivers a powerful performance as a tired fighter, torn between different kinds of love. Her subtle expressions speak volumes. Her words cut deep. No notes, honestly.
Big props, too, to Alden Richards for bringing the charisma needed to take on a character like Ethan. While his decisions are often problematic or misplaced, they still come from a place of love. However, there are times when the character becomes insufferable, and Richards manages to carry the role despite this. While the melodramatic beats and cheesy moments are still present, they serve as part of a much more compelling narrative.
There are many ways this story could have ended, but Hello, Love, Goodbye understands Joy. Thanks to that, Cathy Garcia-Molina has created another classic for the books. 4/5 ⭐
Hello, Love, Goodbye is now streaming on Netflix. Its sequel Hello, Love, Again arrives in PH cinemas November 13.
