Starting Over Again (2014) simplifies love in ways where one tends to complicate.
Ginny (Toni Gonzaga), an architecture student, falls in love with Marco (Piolo Pascual) a History professor. Though awkward and unlikely, she pursues him. Eventually, Marco falls in love with her because of her strong will and compassionate heart as portrayed through her unconditional love for her hopeless father.
The relationship is happy. Dreams abound the blooming lovelife. And yet, in a reason that is artistically unfolded, Ginny leaves for Spain.
In his days of confusion and loss, Marco writes an email, a love letter of hope for Ginny that is meant to be read after four years. With a masters degree and a promising career ahead, Ginny gets to read the letter on the intended date and suddenly becomes haunted by past love.
On the other (career) side of the love story, Marco is a rising chef who is in need of an architect to build his second restaurant. However, his team is challenged in finding an architect as Marco’s taste does not fit their designs. With much hope and enthusiasm, the team suggests to bring in ex-love, Ginny, to complete the project.
Are they ready to see each other again? Does past love deserve a second chance even if Marco has found new love in Patty (Iza Calzado)? Are they ready to start over again?
Multi-awarded director, Olivia M. Lamasan crafts a heartfelt and realistic love story.
The movie’s technical high is in its cinematography and brilliant acting of Toni Gonzaga and Iza Calzado. Lamasan’s careful selection of shots and lighting is impressive. The montage is one of its kind in Philippine cinema. The opening credits entices anticipation and the closing credits warms the heart.
Ginny is reckless while Patty is composed. The progressive intensity of emotions on the scene between Toni and Iza brings its viewers into a unique climactic style.
Ginny and Patty helped Marco transcend in ways he is not able to understand at first. Both made him achieve beyond what he was only willing to settle and loves him “more than his failures”.
“In love, there is no fear.” To the lover, there is only certainty. That what you believe is true, that even in his imperfections he is worth fighting for.
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© rooks 2014
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