Love on a Budget (2023)

Love goes beyond materialistic desires and possessions.

'Third World Romance' is not the typical romantic movie we’ve seen before. Everything about it is the complete opposite of the usual romance clichés. Through the lens of a romantic story, this film tackles important social issues that are prevalent in our society today. It doesn't shy away from portraying the harsh realities of poverty and the class gap, shedding light on the struggles faced by many individuals in the lower socio-economic group. By weaving these themes into a love story, focusing on the simplicity of nurturing love through small acts of kindness, understanding, and compassion, it also effectively brings attention to these pressing issues in a way that is both engaging and thought-provoking.

Apart from the love story between Bree and Alvin and the struggles they go through, this film also portrayed a healthy non-conformity to the traditional Filipino family. Alvin lives with his chosen family, consisting of his transwoman father and siblings who have diverse sexual orientation and gender identity. Credit to the director for showcasing queer family representation.

The outstanding portrayals by Charlie Dizon and Carlo Aquino maintain the authenticity of their characters' struggles while also conveying a sense of happiness in their love story. The only flaw about them is that, despite being a real-life couple, their chemistry on screen seems lacking. Their companionship feels more platonic than sweet. But Charlie Dizon did an excellent job here. She's remarkable at giving the character so much depth through her expressions. Her character is relatable and human, making the audience empathize with her journey throughout the film.

Overall, this movie is well-crafted and well-acted. It will make us take a moment to ponder and see beyond the love story and appreciate the deeper messages that it conveys. In a world where materialism reigns supreme, it is easy to fall into the trap of believing that wealth is the key to happiness and fulfillment. But this film simply shows that love goes beyond materialistic desires and possessions.

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