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It’s a fact that Vilma Santos and Christopher De Leon comprise one of (if not the) greatest love teams in Philippine show business history. With over 25 films under their collective belt, it’s safe to say that there exists a shorthand between them in terms of acting and, by extension, making Filipino moviegoers swoon. Fans have been eagerly awaiting their next team-up, but is When I Met You in Tokyo worth the wait?
Azon (Santos) is an OFW working in Tokyo to provide for her brother, niece, and nephew (played by Gabby Eigenmann, Cassy Legaspi, and John Gabriel, respectively) while Joey (De Leon) is a permanent resident who tends to his farm with his best friend Akira (Jacky Woo). In one fateful night, their paths will cross, but will it be a boon or bane for the two of them?
First of all, credit must be given where it is due - Santos and De Leon are bonafide legends of Philippine entertainment, and their performances in Tokyo demonstrate how easy it is for them to just slot back into their familiar grooves. They have given us countless memorable performances over the years, and as members of their audience, the comfortable chemistry they have together is palpable - something that can only be cultivated with years of trust working together.
How are they in Tokyo, you ask? Well, what else can be said? Vilma is Vilma, the Star for All Seasons. That moniker isn’t something she has taken lightly over the years, having portrayed plucky, relatable protagonists, and Azon is a great addition to the pantheon of her classic characters. As for De Leon, he still exudes the coolness that we have come to know and love from him.
"It’s a treat to watch him just disarm her with his charm, and it’s that aforementioned rapport that has transcended their art over the years that’s simply a joy to watch."
The story itself is a very simple yet heartfelt “meet-cute that leads to a romance” type of film, and it’s a case of “if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it.” It’s the same formula that has worked for a majority of their team-ups. Movies like this depend on how well your leads can co-exist on-screen and not sound like a broken record, but that’s something that’s attributed to their tried and tested chemistry.
The script (written by Suzette Doctolero from a story by Santos, De Leon, and co-director Conrado Peru) features a sincerely authentic depiction of the plight of Filipinos living and/or working abroad, which enhances the film’s connection with its audience. One thing we’d say that the movie could’ve improved on is if it held back on nearly going overboard with the Vilma and Boyet B-Rolls of them being sweet with each other (specifically between the 2nd and 3rd acts). Yes, we get that this is a love letter to their fans, but points have to be docked because of this, as this makes the film’s pacing suffer slightly as a result. This, however, is a minor nitpick that doesn’t really bring the film down.
"Make no mistake - the power of the Vilma/Boyet love team is alive and well even after 40 years of working together because even after all that time, they still bring the “kilig” factor in telling a very touching tale of finding love even in your twilight years."
When I Met You In Tokyo is one of the films showcased during the 49th Metro Manila Film Festival. Accolades include 4th Best Picture, Best Actress for Vilma Santos, Fernando Poe Jr. Memorial Award for Excellence, and Best Float.
Cinegeeks rating : A-
Watch the trailer here:
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