My Amanda

My Amanda is a heart-warming 2021 drama film that operates on the idea of profound platonic love and enduring friendship. The movie features renowned actors Alessandra De Rossi and Piolo Pascual, along with Luz Valdez, in a captivating interpretation of the quadrant of friendship, love, longing, and complexities of the human heart.

Directed and written by Alessandra De Rossi, My Amanda breaks free from fast-paced mainstream cinema, banking on relatability, simplicity, and appeal to the everyday audience's sentiments. Appealingly shot, the film is set against various picturesque locations that lend themselves to the story as silent storytellers, syncing with the overarching mood of every scene.

The film's premise revolves around the unique bond and deep friendship shared by Amanda 'Fream' Bonifacio (Alessandra De Rossi) and TJ 'Fuffy' Trinidad (Piolo Pascual). They share an extraordinary companionship, a sort of rare and profound understanding where the distinction between romantic love and platonic intimacy is often blurred. The movie uses the device of this relationship to examine and explore the nature of friendship, love, and the human yearning to connect.

Amanda is an exuberant, lively character who loves openly and truly. A bona fide risk-taker with an open heart, she represents the free soul who does not shy away from baring her heart. On the flip side, TJ is a more restrained character battling personal demons, who often ends up being the voice of reason. Their different natures complement each other perfectly, one providing solace and the other offering a safeguard. This dichotomy in the characters forms the heart of the film, bringing a wholesome and beautiful depiction of a deep-rooted friendship.

The film's narrative structure is nonlinear, involving snippets from the protagonists' life provided in a haphazard sequence that keeps viewers engaged and intrigued. The storyline employs numerous light-hearted and emotional moments that contribute to the growth and understanding of the characters, their friendship, and the unspoken emotions that push and pull them throughout the film.

The performances by Alessandra De Rossi and Piolo Pascual are the movie's lifelines, as the narrative heavily relies on their on-screen chemistry and their understanding of the characters. Rossi brings a certain charm and vulnerability to Amanda, capturing the audience's hearts with her emotionally charged performance. In contrast, Pascual is the calm demeanor and balance to Rossi's storm of emotions, complimenting the narrative with his subtle but powerful acting. Luz Valdez brings additional depth to the cast lineup with her credible supporting performance.

Further enriching the experience is the film's captivating cinematography. The frame transitions effortlessly from cheerful moments in sunlit environments to pensive scenes under moody, clouded skies. The subtle play of lights and shadows reflects the narrative's emotional spectrum, captured beautifully by the film's sound design and aesthetics.

In conclusion, My Amanda is a film that strays away from cliche depictions of romance and explores the profoundness of platonic relationships. Watching it feels like reading from a personal diary, chronicling a beautiful friendship's up and downs. The movie's simplicity is its most beautiful attribute, and the performances by the central characters add a heart-touching depth that leaves a long-lasting impression. By focusing on the essence of friendship and love,, the film manages to clarify the fine line between platonic and romantic relationships and leaves room for viewers' interpretations and emotional exploration.