What If? (2023) is a heartfelt and raw exploration of love, set against the tranquil yet tempestuous landscape of the Philippines’ islands. Directed by Manny Palo, this Filipino film delves deep into the intricacies of relationships, offering an unflinching look at the emotional rollercoaster that comes with being in love, especially in the early stages of marriage. Through its powerful performances and atmospheric storytelling, What If? paints a vivid portrait of two people caught between love and reality, and the unforeseen challenges that lie ahead when the honeymoon phase ends.
The film follows Billie (Alessandra de Rossi) and Jecs (JM de Guzman), two musicians who, after exchanging vows, embark on a honeymoon to a remote island. What initially appears to be the perfect escape—a serene, idyllic retreat to celebrate their new life together—quickly turns into a tense and revealing journey. A sudden storm traps them on the island, forcing the couple to face not only the physical challenges posed by the storm but also the emotional storms brewing within their relationship.
Billie and Jecs’ honeymoon becomes an allegory for the storms that all couples experience—those that emerge from miscommunication, hidden resentments, and unresolved issues. As they confront their deepest fears and desires, the characters are forced to reckon with their pasts and their expectations for the future. The isolation of the island amplifies the emotional intensity, forcing the couple to have difficult conversations they would have otherwise avoided. What begins as a romantic getaway transforms into a pivotal moment of reckoning, where the bonds of their relationship are tested in ways they had never anticipated.
What sets What If? apart from other romantic dramas is its focus on vulnerability and emotional honesty. Rather than portraying an idealized version of love, the film takes a raw approach, presenting its characters as flawed, real individuals struggling to maintain a connection while navigating the pressures of life and love. The storm that traps Billie and Jecs acts as a metaphor for the unpredictable nature of relationships, where external challenges often mirror the internal struggles faced by individuals.
The performances of Alessandra de Rossi and JM de Guzman are key to the film’s success. De Rossi, known for her ability to portray complex, layered characters, brings depth and authenticity to Billie, a woman confronting the fear of losing herself in the whirlwind of marriage. De Guzman’s portrayal of Jecs, a man grappling with his own insecurities, complements de Rossi’s performance beautifully. Together, they create a palpable chemistry that makes their emotional journey both heartbreaking and hopeful.
Visually, What If? captures the raw beauty of the island setting, using the natural environment to reflect the couple’s emotional states. The lush, serene landscapes contrast with the storm’s fury, mirroring the couple’s turbulent journey from blissful ignorance to painful reality. The cinematography skillfully captures the mood swings of the story—moments of peace interrupted by flashes of tension—creating a sense of intimacy that pulls viewers into the characters’ world.
At its core, What If? is about the choices that define a relationship. It asks the hard questions: What happens when the honeymoon phase fades? How do we navigate the aftermath of unmet expectations? Can love survive the trials of everyday life? By the end, viewers are left with a bittersweet understanding of the fragility of love, and the resilience it takes to make it work.
Released in 2023, What If? is available for streaming on Netflix, offering audiences the chance to experience this powerful emotional journey from the comfort of their own homes. For those curious about the film, the official trailer can be found on Netflix’s YouTube channel, giving a glimpse into the beautiful yet challenging narrative that unfolds on screen.
In a world where romantic films often promise perfect love stories, What If? stands out by embracing imperfection and offering an honest portrayal of love’s messier, more complicated side.
Production and Main Cast
Directed by Manny Palo and produced by Viva Films in collaboration with A World of Our Own, What If? showcases the depth and versatility of Filipino cinema. The film features a stellar cast:
- Alessandra de Rossi as Billie: A seasoned actress known for her compelling performances in films like Kita Kita and Walang KaParis.
- JM de Guzman as Jecs: An actor and musician recognized for his roles in The Iron Heart and Halik.
- Supporting roles include Chard Ocampo, Ana Abad-Santos, Nicole Omillo, Angie Castrence, Soliman Cruz, Jett Pangan, Sunshine Guimary, and Anna Luna.
Release and Viewing Platforms
What If? was released on September 7, 2023, and is currently available for streaming on Netflix. To watch the trailer, you can visit Netflix‘s official YouTube channel.
Edd’s Taskway
What If? is a film that dives deep into the real challenges of relationships. It’s both personal and relatable, capturing the messiness of love, the highs, and the lows. Billie (Alessandra de Rossi) and Jecs (JM de Guzman) play a newlywed couple on a honeymoon that quickly turns into a test of their bond. Stranded on a remote island, they face not just a physical storm but emotional ones that threaten their marriage.
The chemistry between de Rossi and de Guzman is undeniable. You can feel the tension and tenderness between them, pulling you into their journey. Their performances are raw and real, which makes their struggles hit close to home.
However, the pacing of the film might not be for everyone. The slow build-up can feel a bit drawn out, and the emotional confrontations that follow are intense. At times, these heated arguments may feel overwhelming, making it hard to connect with the characters’ choices.
Visually, What If? is beautiful. The island setting isn’t just a backdrop; it reflects the couple’s emotional state. The cinematography captures the calm before the storm, and the chaos that follows, enhancing the drama.
Overall, What If? is an honest look at the complexities of love and marriage. It may not be everyone’s cup of tea, but for those who want a film that digs deep into emotions and relationships, it’s a thought-provoking watch.