Classic Rom Coms Fil-Ams Must Watch
Hearts race, lights dim, and laughter is in the air as classic rom coms bring us to a world of laughter, love, and tales of happily-ever-afters.
These beloved movies hold a special part in the hearts of Fil-Ams, reflecting the characters’ distinct experiences and cultural backgrounds.
Classic rom coms weave stories of humor, romance, and the victory of love. These films continue to captivate the hearts of Fil-Ams in all generations worldwide.
Timeless Rom Coms for Fil-Ams
In this article, we’ll honor the lasting charm of these movies. We’ll also explore their impact on Filipino-American cinema while delving into the classic favorites that have captured our hearts and imagination.
Let us navigate this delightful journey as we rediscover the classic Filipino rom coms that have left a mark in the movie landscape. These films entertain and mirror our experiences, weaving stories of love, family, and cultural identities.
1. That Thing Called Tadhana (2014)
Casting: Angelica Panganiban, JM de Guzman
Synopsis: This heartfelt comedy film follows the story of Anthony (JM de Guzman) and Mace (Angelica Panganiban), who meet on their way to Baguio. They are both nursing their broken hearts.
This classic rom com tackles loss, friendship, love, self-discovery, and letting go.
You may also like: 8 Filipino American Musicians Taking the Music World by Storm
2. Bride for Rent (2014)
Casting: Kim Chiu, Xian Lim
Synopsis: The mishaps in this romantic comedy movie start when a young man (Xian Lim) hires a woman (Kim Chiu) to pretend to be his bride for the sake of inheritance.
As their pretend venture unfolds, feelings will also start to develop.
3. Crazy Beautiful You (2015)
Photo Credit: Netflix.com
Casting: Daniel Padilla, Kathryn Bernardo
Synopsis: Jackie (Kathryn Bernardo) is dealing with her troubles at home. Her mom decides to take her on a medical mission so she could learn the real hardships of life. Kiko (Daniel Padilla) will be her guide as she explores life in the mountains.
Together, the two will embark on the journey of life and love.
4. You’re My Boss (2015)
Casting: Coco Martin, Toni Gonzaga
Synopsis: A woman (Toni Gonzaga) seeking acceptance and love finds a surprising connection with her assistant (Coco Martin). This undeniable chemistry will lead to a joyful journey of self-discovery.
5. She’s Dating the Gangster (2014)
Casting: Kathryn Bernardo, Daniel Padilla
Synopsis: Athena (Kathryn Bernardo), 17, agrees to pretend as school heartthrob Kenji’s (Daniel Padilla) girlfriend. The latter aims to make his ex jealous, only that one of them will fall genuinely in love in the process of pretending.
6. English Only, Please (2014)
Casting: Jennylyn Mercado, Derek Ramsay
Synopsis: This classic rom com follows the story of a charming Filipino tutor (Jennylyn Mercado) and a Fil-Am (Derek Ramsay) who grew up in New York. The hilarious narrative starts when he asks for the tutor’s help translating an angry speech for his ex-girlfriend.
The two will help each other as they surpass language barriers and cultural differences.
7. Four Sisters and a Wedding (2013)
Casting: Toni Gonzaga, Bea Alonzo, Angel Locsin, Shaina Magdayao, Enchong Dee, Coney Reyes
Synopsis: While this film is short on the romantic side, it highlights the influence of family in the lives of Filipinos. The story is about four sisters each leading a different life who go home to reunite for their only brother’s (Enchong Dee) wedding.
The hilarious twist comes mid-story when the brother discovers his sisters don’t like the bride-to-be. Timeless Filipino actress Coney Reyes playsthe loving mom who’s supportive of her offspring.
8. My Only Ü (2008)
Casting: Toni Gonzaga, Vhong Navarro
Synopsis: While you may find this classic rom com a tad confusing initially, its depth shows as the story unfolds. Toni Gonzaga plays the role of the female version of Woody Allen.
The plot revolves around her thinking that death is just around and the love of a man (Vhong Navarro) will save her from her destructive thinking.
9. Till There Was You (2003)
Casting: Piolo Pascual, Judy Ann Santos
Synopsis: Albert (Piolo Pascual) is a single father who lives with his daughter. The latter meets Joanna (Judy Ann Santos) on a bus trip, and the little girl believes that she is her mom.
Albert will then hire Joanna to pretend as her daughter’s mom. She lives with them, and this is the start of their budding relationship as partners and as a family.
You may also like: 5 Filipino Urban Legends Fil-Ams Should Know
10. A Very Special Love (2008)
Photo Credit: Netflix.com
Casting: John Lloyd Cruz, Sarah Geronimo
Synopsis: You might think it’s another average story of a wealthy man meeting an ordinary girl. But how the girl lead character (Sarah Geronimo) imposes positivity on everything is life-changing.
Laida Magtalas (Sarah Geronimo) is set to never back down, even with her grumpy boss Miggy Montenegro (John Lloyd Cruz). This adorable film will surely put its sunshine to brighten your day.
11. Kita Kita (2017)
Casting: Alessandra de Rossi, Empoy Marquez
Synopsis: Though the lead characters aren’t famous love teams in the Philippines, the plot of this rom com is superb. The film’s charming take on serendipitous love reaches new heights.
The story revolves around these two who meet in a unique way in Japan. Soon, they will embark on the journey of love while facing struggles.
12. Got 2 Believe (2002)
Casting: Claudine Barreto, Rico Yan
Synopsis: A certified classic rom com that revolves around two people (Claudine Barreto, Rico Yan) hating each other at first. While Toni (Claudine Barretto) is firm on her marriage plans, Lorenz (Rico Yan) is horrified of commitment.
The story will prove how amidst everything, with love, all can meet in the middle and compromise.
13. The Third Party (2016)
Photo Credit: Amazon.com
Casting: Angel Tocsin, Sam Milby, Zanjoe Marudo
Synopsis: With everyone embracing diversity nowadays, this classic rom com is relatable, only with a twist. An aspiring fashion designer (Angel Tocsin) aims to win back her former lover.
However, she’ll discover that he already fell in love with a man. Their journey to friendship and love will distinctly show in the film.
14. My Amnesia Girl (2010)
Casting: Toni Gonzaga, John Lloyd Cruz
Synopsis: It is similar to the “Runaway Bride,” only with a bit of an Asian twist. Irene (Toni Gonzaga) is a photographer who pretends to have amnesia.
She was forced to do so when she has an encounter with the guy (John Lloyd Cruz) who left her at the altar for their wedding.
You may also like: Top 10 Most Romantic Gestures in Rom-Com History
15. Always be My Maybe (2016)
Casting: Gerald Anderson, Arci Muñoz
Synopsis: This classic rom com boasts of a funny and witty script. The story revolves around finding love at the moment when you believe everything about it is ruined.
Watch how these lead characters embark on their process of discovery and recovery.
In an era where evolving preferences and trends rule, classic rom coms have withstood the test of time. They still remind us of our hope for connection and love. These type of movies reminds us that against all odds, love will prevail.
Fil-Ams can celebrate their vibrant heritage by observing the tapestry of these timeless movies. They speak to our collective experiences and cultural identity. You’ll understand more Filipino traits and beliefs as you explore these movies.
Bottomline
Classic rom coms have cemented a place in our hearts and minds. Their tales of laughter, love, and triumph uplift our spirits. These movies don’t just entertain. They are also somewhat a reflection of our dreams and goals.
If you’re a Filipino American seeking to dig deeper into your roots, perhaps watching these movies will bring you a sense of belonging. So, let’s grab some popcorn, sit back, and chill as we enjoy this cinematic journey into Filipino films.
For more updates on the latest news and interesting articles, stay tuned at Inquirer.net.
