Now That I Have You

Now That I Have You is a 2004 Filipino romantic comedy film, directed by Laurenti Dyogi and produced by Star Cinema. The movie features some of the Philippines' most cherished actors, such as John Lloyd Cruz and Bea Alonzo, demonstrating their exceptional artistry and effortless chemistry.

John Lloyd Cruz portrays Michael Morelos, a talented and diligent engineer who is clear about his career goals but bears a secret fixation on a woman he's observed solely from afar. Cruz's performance as Michael is intense and vulnerable, injecting genuine warmth and sincerity into his role.

Bea Alonzo plays Lianne Araneta, a simple, passionate, but somewhat misunderstood woman who aspires for intimacy yet always finds herself at odds with her complicated personal life and struggling fashion business. Alonzo exhibits great finesse in embodying Lianne's nuanced character, gleaming with optimism in one moment, then shading into serious and sensitive in another.

A supporting cast that includes Nikki Valdez, and others, bring delightful performances, adding to the film's vibrant ensemble. They portray Lianne's friends and Michael's colleagues, contributing to the unfolding dynamics of the protagonists' love game. The film also boasts an impressive array of supporting characters, who help push the plot while providing comic relief and an insightful look into the nuances of love, friendship, and human relationships.

The essence of Now That I Have You lies in its compelling narrative of two seemingly ordinary individuals who cross paths in an unusual sequence of events. Set in the bustling city of Metro Manila, the film paints a charming, urban love story of two complete strangers who are united by fate and their shared daily ride on the MRT (Manila's Metro Rail Transit).

Every morning, Michael takes the same train to work, each time catching a glimpse of Lianne, his dream girl. He is captivated by Lianne's grace and charm but remains a secret admirer, never gathering the courage to approach her. Despite their daily co-existence in the same train car, the two remain strangers.

The story takes a dramatic turn when destiny plays its card, and circumstances lead to Michael and Lianne's paths finally intersecting. Thus, begins a poignant exploration of their budding relationship, grappling with emotions, misunderstandings, expectations, ambitions, insecurities, and life's unpredictable twists and turns.

Director Laurenti Dyogi, famous for his knack for detailing and aesthetically pleasing storytelling, creates an engaging narrative that seamlessly blends romance and comedy. The film is not just a simple love story; it also sheds light on the complexities of city life, where dreams, ambitions, love, and friendships often intersect, and at times, collide.

Now That I Have You excellently showcases the ride of emotions that come with relationships— the thrill of the first meeting, the excitement of getting closer, the fears and insecurities that follow, the misunderstandings, the breakdowns, and the ultimate understanding and acceptance of each other's perfections and flaws.

The film's charm also lies in its unique blend of humor and wit, evident in the puns, punchlines, and comic situations, making it an entertaining watch. The story serves not only to enamor but also to reflect on life and relationships, making it relevant to viewers of different ages and walks of life.

While the film surrounds the ignorance, hopes, and agonies of love, it also presents an interesting storyline on ambition, career, and the struggle to find balance. It's not just about two hearts falling in love, but about two individuals sharing dreams, fears, and life's challenges.

The movie's rich and multilayered storyline is complemented with a well-structured screenplay and engaging dialogues, relatable characters, vibrant cinematography capturing the essence of Manila city life, and a soulful musical score. Its relatable portrayal of love and life situations grounds the film in reality, making it more than just a romantic comedy.

In its essence, Now That I Have You is a heartwarming tale of love, companionship, aspiration, and life's unpredictability. It's about finding love in the most unexpected places and under the most unusual circumstances. A celebration of life, dreams, and the beautiful surprises that come our way, it is indeed a must-watch for all rom-com and Filipino cinema lovers.