Unang Tikim, directed by Roman Perez Jr. and written by Mariane Maddawat, is a poignant exploration of love, desire, and the complexities of human relationships. The film revolves around Yuna (Angeli Khang), a woman who finds herself at a crossroads in life when her long-time boyfriend Nicco (Matthew Francisco) proposes to her. Despite her deep love for Nicco, Yuna's world is shaken when she unexpectedly crosses paths with her first love, Becca (Robb Guinto). This encounter ignites a wave of emotions and memories that Yuna thought were long buried, forcing her to confront her feelings and question the life she has built.
Angeli Khang delivers a compelling performance as Yuna, portraying the character's internal conflict with grace and depth. Her chemistry with both Robb Guinto and Matthew Francisco is palpable, making Yuna's dilemma feel all the more real and heart-wrenching. Guinto's portrayal of Becca is equally captivating, bringing a raw vulnerability to the character that highlights the unresolved tension between her and Yuna.
The film does an excellent job of balancing its romantic elements with the emotional turmoil that comes with making life-altering decisions. Perez Jr.'s direction is sensitive and nuanced, allowing the characters to fully express their emotions without over-dramatizing the narrative. The screenplay by Maddawat is sharp and engaging, with dialogue that feels authentic and true to the characters' experiences.
Unang Tikim is more than just a love story; it's a deep dive into the nature of first loves and how they shape our identities. The film doesn't shy away from exploring the complexities of bisexuality, making it a significant contribution to Filipino cinema's portrayal of LGBTQ+ themes. The supporting cast, including Susan Africa, adds layers to the story, providing perspective and wisdom that ground the younger characters' emotional struggles.
Visually, the film is beautifully shot, with scenes that capture the intensity of Yuna's emotional journey. The cinematography complements the film's tone, using lighting and color to reflect Yuna's shifting feelings and the tension between her past and present.
Overall, Unang Tikim is a powerful and thought-provoking film that will resonate with anyone who has ever found themselves torn between two paths in life. It's a story about love in all its forms and the courage it takes to follow your heart, even when it leads you into uncharted territory.
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