MINAMAHAL

Minamahal (2025)

Written & Directed by: Jason Paul Laxamana

Fan service is the first thing that comes to mind during its first salvo. Out of nowhere, too many activities are happening without notice and buildup. Regardless of the hows and whys, the two leads are inseparable—flirting with each other. Every scene feels like the climax already.

Then you might ask…

Is this how they want to depict love?

To a pleasant surprise, this film has proven to be more than just a fan service. As the story progresses, the definition of love also evolves.

Like plants, the characters grow. They aren’t stuck in their roots. Like flowers, they bloom. Aside from the beauty, flaws are also acknowledged. They have thorns that can be hurtful not only to others but also to themselves.

Nung ibinahagi ang kagandahan at kapangitan na dulot ng pagmamahal, dun mo masasabi na ang pelikulang ito ay hindi na lang basta puro kilig at tweetums. Masaya o masakit man ang nangyayari, handa silang ipakita ang mga ito.

May mas igagaling pa sina Ashtine Olviga at Andres Muhlach. Minsa’y nakukuha nila. Minsa’y kulang pa. Ngunit para sa kanilang unang pelikula, hindi na ito masama. Yung charm nila ang nagdala nung una. Ngunit habang tumatagal, nadaragdagan din ang kanilang mga emosyon. Ang kanilang mga sigawan at mga halikan ay nagkaroon ng laman. Hindi sila nakaka-derder panuorin.

Family is established as essential part of their lives, yet scenes with them are too quick and limited. The atmosphere in high school and college setting doesn’t feel authentic. Lacking creativity, product advertisements can be distracting and off-putting.

Some lines are striking and thought-provoking, but they don’t lead to follow-up questions and discussions to further address the situation. The movie title sounds plain and boring. Although after watching, you’ll find the word 𝘔𝘪𝘯𝘢𝘮𝘢𝘩𝘢𝘭 fitting to the story.

Whether you’re a fan of loveteams or not,

you’ll find yourself smiling at their sweet moments.

Naniniwala ka man sa pagmamahal o hindi,

meron at meron kang mamahalin sa pelikulang ito.

𝑴𝑰𝑵𝑨𝑴𝑨𝑯𝑨𝑳

Cast: Ashtine Olviga, Andres Muhlach, Marnie Lapus, MJ Cayabyab, Gene Padilla, VJ Mendoza, Phoebe Walker, Yuki Sakamoto, Bob Jbeili, Lance Justin Carr, Jastine Lim, Derick Lauchengco, Hans Paronda, Vladia Disuanco, Yuki Sonoda, Eli San Andres, Gami Gambuta, Milo Cruz, Barbie Diaz, Joko Diaz

Presented by: Ninuno Media, Viva Films

Release Date: September 24, 2025 in Philippine cinemas nationwide

A Movie Review by: Goldwin Reviews