Sakaling Maging Tayo

The 2019 Philippine movie, Sakaling Maging Tayo, falls into the genre of a romantic drama, directed by JP Habac and produced by Black Sheep Productions. This film takes viewers on a thrilling journey of youthful dreams, challenges, and the enchanting magic of love. Sparkling with raw emotional power and the irresistible chemistry between its two lead actors - McCoy De Leon as Pol and Elisse Joson as Laya - the film takes a refreshing look at infatuation, self-discovery, and true love.

The story revolves around Pol and Laya, two college freshmen who meet by chance on their last day of university. Laya is a reserved and heartbroken girl recovering from a failed relationship with her high school sweetheart, while Pol is a free-spirited aspiring singer who grapples with unrequited love for his best friend. Despite their disparate personalities and circumstances, destiny intertwines their paths in the most unexpected of ways.

The town of Baguio, famously known in the Philippines as the City of Pines, serves as the enchanting backdrop to their journey, its scenic vistas and gentle climate mirroring the emotional ebb and flow between our leads. The film beautifully captures the idyllic landscape of Baguio, from its bustling city life to its serene picnic spots, adding an atmospheric layer to the narrative.

During a chance encounter, a series of unexpected events leave Pol and Laya stranded in the city together for the night. Knowing they might never cross paths again, Pol dares Laya to play a game of dares - 'no inhibitions, no holding back'. As the night deepens, the dares become a catalyst for the revealing of their innermost secrets, feelings, and anxieties.

Thus, evolves a saga that seamlessly intertwines stark realizations, tender moments, a series of dares leading to escapades, and the inevitable draw of chemistry. Alongside the love story, the film also dives into the exploration of personal ambitions and dreams, highlighting the struggle of youth in choosing between love, career, and self-discovery.

A special mention must be made of the harmonious blend of music with storytelling in Sakaling Maging Tayo. The music conveys the youthful vibe of the film and helps build the narrative. It's catchy, modern and adds a depth of emotion to the dialogues and interactions between Pol and Laya. Pol, being an aspiring musician, often expresses himself with his guitar, offering a heartfelt melody to the narrative.

While the storyline of Sakaling Maging Tayo might feel at times like a familiar trope in the rom-com genre, the astounding performances by the lead actors and the unexpected twists and turns will keep you engaged. McCoy De Leon displays a remarkable range of expressions, making Pol a likable and relatable character. On the other hand, Elisse Joson convincingly portrays the emotional turmoil in Laya's heart, capturing her character's vulnerability beautifully. Bembol Roco, a renowned actor in Philippine cinema, skillfully supports the young leads.

Above all, Sakaling Maging Tayo is a profound revelation of heartbreak, dreams, courage, and yearning for companionship. It portrays the inherent truth that love is not always escapism but can be an exploration of oneself, a realization of one's worth. This film doesn't rush through its narrative but allows the viewers to absorb and understand each character's journey. Sakaling Maging Tayo is inherently a timeless tale that makes one reminisce on their personal youthful experiences of love and the journey of self-discovery. It's for anyone who is a hopeless romantic at heart, enjoys enchanting stories of first love, or appreciates a well-crafted exploration of youth and love.