#FriendButMarried 2

#FriendButMarried 2 is an Indonesian romantic drama film that was released on February 27, 2020, and directed by the talented Rako Prijanto. This sequel, based on a book by Ayudia Bing Slamet and Ditto Percussion, continues the intricate love story between Ditto and Ayu that captivated audiences in the first movie, "#FriendButMarried."

The story picks up from where the previous film left off, with Adipati Dolken reprising his role as Ditto and Mawar Eva de Jongh returning as Ayu. Their chemistry is even more palpable in this sequel, adding more warmth and depth to their complex relationship. Supporting performances by Vonny Cornellya, along with figures such as Ivan Leonardy, Clay Gribble, Melodya Rosa, unfold the story further, enhancing the main plotline appreciatively.

Interspersed with humor and heartfelt moments, #FriendButMarried 2 explores the journey of the two protagonists as they navigate the turbulent waters of their relationship. The narrative becomes more nuanced in this sequel, showing the pair's personal growth and the changes their relationship undergoes over time.

With a title like #FriendButMarried 2, the film inevitably dives into themes such as love, friendship, and the grey area between the two. It emphasizes the complexity of relationships, the dilemma of love and friendship, the highs and lows of being in love, and living in the societal standards of friendship and marriage.

Adipati Dolken's performance as Ditto is commendable. He delivers an incredibly nuanced portrayal of a man torn between his lifelong friendship with Ayu and his burgeoning feelings for her. It's his emotional range and subtlety that add a deeper layer to the narrative, breathing life into Ditto's transformation throughout the film.

On the other hand, Mawar Eva de Jongh's portrayal of Ayu is equally compelling. She beautifully captures Ayu's confusion, longing, and emotional struggle as she grapples with her feelings for Ditto. She embodies her character superbly, delivering a performance that is both touching and relatable.

Vonny Cornellya, along with the others in the supporting cast, offer solid performances that further enrich the narrative. Each character adds a unique dimension to the storyline, making the movie more engaging and delightful to watch.

The movie's soundtrack is also worth noting. The songs feature a mix of upbeat, catchy tunes and soulful melodies suited to the varying tones of the film. The music adds an extra layer of emotion to the scenes, effectively capturing the mood and sentiments of the characters.

Rako Prijanto's direction shines through the film. His storytelling is sensitive and engaging, offering ample space for the characters' development. The cinematography beautifully captures the essence of the film—painting a vivid canvas of youthful exuberance, the struggles of adulthood, and the complexities of love.

The screenplay, though rooted in romance, doesn't shy away from addressing realistic issues. It incorporates moments of tension, confusion, longing, and resolution, offering a holistic narrative that captures real-life scenarios.

Besides the dramatic narrative, another significant strength of #FriendButMarried 2 is its dialogues—they're simple, relatable, and effectively drive the storyline. They connect the audience to the characters on a deeper level, making the viewing experience more immersive.

In summary, #FriendButMarried 2 is a compelling continuation of Ditto and Ayu's intricate love story. Built on a foundation of strong performances, honest storytelling, and engaging dialogues, the film offers a heartfelt exploration of love, friendship, and the blurry lines in between. The film will undoubtedly appeal to fans of ethnic cinema and those who appreciate a good love story with deeper themes and narratives.