Once a Princess

Once a Princess is a captivating and emotional Filipino drama film that was theatrically released in 2014. Directed by the talented Laurice Guillen, this movie showcases riveting performances by a stellar cast that includes Erich Gonzales, Enchong Dee, and JC De Vera.

The movie revolves around Erich Gonzales, who completely steals the show with her subtle and thorough representation of the main character, Erin Almeda. Erin presents a mix of many emotions through her character, showcasing the challenges of a marginal existence, the pains of a broken family, and the complexities of unpredicted love. Her portrayal encapsulates the essence of a young woman whose life is loaded with ups and downs, never losing the nuance of her character throughout the film.

Erin Almeda is an intelligent, pretty, and kind-hearted college student who comes from an upper-middle-class family. She lives an adequate and comfortable life, complete with the attention and praise of her friends and her loving boyfriend, Leonard Jamieson, played by a charming Enchong Dee. Leonard is the epitome of an ideal boyfriend; he's sweet, dedicated, and romantic, making their relationship seem like it is straight out of a fairy tale.

However, things begin to take a turn when Erin becomes entangled in a convoluted web of her own making. She is forced to mar her future and relationships due to her poor judgment and impulsive decisions. Leonardo belongs to a wealthy family that disapproves of Erin and deems her inappropriate for their son, primarily, because of her recent actions.

The story becomes intensified by the introduction of another key character, Damian Paulo, a hard-hearted business tycoon effortlessly portrayed by JC De Vera. The connection between Erin and Damian adds another layer of complexity to the script. The characters' interplay, the dramatic twists, and profound dialogues spin viewers on an emotional roller-coaster that keeps them guessing and engaged.

Once a Princess plays with themes of love, loss, responsibility, accountability, and life's countless challenges. It's a drama that many young adults might find relatable, as it depicts the trials and tribulations we face in relationships, family, and personal growth.

The cinematography and production style of the film do justice to its storyline. Each frame captures the exquisite character expressions, the depth of the dialogues, and the ebbs and flows of the plot. The panoramic views of the city, charming college premises, and dynamic corporate environment help set a realistic atmosphere that underpins the film's narrative. The melodic Original Pilipino Music (OPM) that forms the film’s soundtrack accentuates the storyline, creating a tangible emotional climate for the audience.

Aside from Gonzales, Dee, and De Vera’s notable performances, the film also features a host of seasoned actors who lend depth to the story. They craft a captivating narrative — one that maintains a good balance of realism and cinematic drama, masterfully demonstrating how drastic decisions can lead to life-altering consequences.

On the whole, Once a Princess is more than a traditional love triangle or a simple coming-of-age story. It is an intricate tapestry that depicts stories of love, consequences, regret, and redemption. Directed by Laurice Guillen, this film compellingly portrays how a woman finds her strength amidst adversities and learns to live for her own self. For those in search of a film that connects to real-life scenarios, this one stands to offer more than just entertainment. It drives home the message that life does not always go as planned and that sometimes, it's not the happy ending but the journey that leaves the most profound impact.