Movie Review: The Achy Breaky Hearts

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Main Cast: Ian Veneracion, Jodi Sta. Maria, Richard Yap

Director: Antoinette Jadaone

Rating: PG

Produced/Released by: Star Cinema

How can two very popular love teams outdo each other in a movie? Certainly, there’s just no way to pick one and ditch the other. The Jodi-Richard Yap  versus  Jodi-Ian Veneracion tandems have proven themselves mightily at the TV ratings game. But will they fare similarly in the movies?

Antoinette Jadaone’s  ‘The Achy Breaky Hearts’ tells the story of Chinggay (Jodi), who, in her 30’s has yet to find a man to complete her. For quite a while, Chinggay has been ‘married’ to her career and family, and by choice has remained single for seven long years. Thus it comes to a point that she desperately longs for a man who will love and inspire her.  

It was quite different during the time of our grandmothers when women were expected to get married in their 20’ s, or even earlier. Women then were not really wired to pursue careers as they are now. Today, the millennial woman is on her own - strong, independent, empowered – much like Chinggay who is a jewelry store manager. Yet, what makes it difficult for her is the pressure to get married.  

Years before, Chinggay had had a failed relationship that left her hurt and traumatized. Understandably, she becomes paranoid (and picky) with men after that. But certain situations can get strange and playful at times.

By a twist of fate, Chinggay crosses paths with two irresistible men. Ryan (Ian), a customer at the jewelry store and her ex, Frank (Richard) whom she meets accidentally at an event. Both are begging to be with her. She’s torn.

The ensuing clashes between Ryan and Frank over Chinggay are some of the movie’s entertaining highlights. Fans will agree that Ian delivers effortlessly, especially in the ‘looks’ department. The two handsome men, both bedimpled are a sight to behold, to say the least. 

Antoinette Jadaone’s  film is generally wholesome although it gets dragging and monotonous at times. Fortunately, the magic and performance that Ian, Jodi and Richard bring to the film somewhat compensate for its shortcomings. Undeniably, their charm and chemistry give that ‘kilig’ factor and appeal.   

The film, however, could have expounded a little on the depth of the subject matter, notably on the challenges that every single woman faces. It would have been a breather to the movie’s lightness, instead of the painfully annoying question repeatedly asked of Chinggay: “Kelan ka mag-aasawa?”

The director could have made use of Jodi’s versatility by injecting a bit of relationship issues that matter to the hearts of the singles out there, particularly the fears that confront them. Do happy singles really exist? What are their goals? Do singles long for a soul mate or just someone to hold hands with? 

At any rate, ‘The Achy Breaky Hearts’ is not a major disappointment. One thing that leaves a mark is Chinggay’s realization that in any relationship, love is not enough. What is enough is the openness to accept each other, the timing that is perfectly wired for two people in love. 

The movie also stars Beauty Gonzalez, Desiree Del Valle, Erika Padilla, and Sarah Lahbati. Catch it in cinemas.