Movie Review: The Third Party

Image courtesy of Instagram: starcinema

Director: Jason Paul Laxamana
MTRCB Rating: R13
Released by: Star Cinema

For the first time, a gay-themed movie tackles gay relationship in a different light, more humane, with no unnecessary hysterics and over drama that often seek to exploit their unique relationship.

Andi (Angel Locsin) and Max (Sam Milby) were college sweethearts who eventually broke up when Max decided to pursue medical studies abroad. Lost and heartbroken, Andi gets on with her life doing events while leveling up as an aspiring fashion designer.

Years after, Andi excitedly reconnects with Max, now a doctor, who introduces her to a fellow doctor, Christian (Zanjo Marudo), Max’s boyfriend. Andi was crashed and devastated. The Third Party revolves around these characters and the travails and humor in the lives of a freshly-minted gay couple.

Max and Christian live together as a couple, looking like ordinary man-woman who have deep love and respect for each other. But their resolve gets tested when they unwittingly invite Andi into their lives, forming an odd set-up like never before.

The arrangement, ’though indeed awkward, is made light in the way director Jason Paul Laxamana presented it. The scenes, as casual as the ones at the dining room and as delicate as those in the bedroom, are presented tastefully, careful not to offend the senses. There are tons of laughter and humor without necessarily negating the essence of the story and what it hopes to achieve.

The scenes are cute and downright funny, enough to excite the audience while roar with laughter at the same time. In particular, that scene of Andi and Christian having a good time at a karaoke bar was a riot. How Andi gets into Christian and Max’s lives and the utter confusion (and chaos) that follow will definitely keep the viewers in stitches.

Alongside the humor and funny antics, the characters have their share of emotional outbursts, too, as they deal with the complexities of their situation and family issues.

In terms of acting, the three lead stars did not disappoint. Without a doubt - Angel, Sam and Zanjo proved their mettle in this movie. Drama actress Angel pulled in a pleasant surprise as a natural in comedy. Zanjo is slowly but surely evolving into a versatile young actor. As the controlling gay Christian, he calls the shots, even to the sensitive decisions that his indecisive partner Max cannot handle.

Director Jason Paul Laxamana’s indie background is seen in his prudent approach into the lives of gays, their relationships and family.  It is heartwarming how crucial the family’s role is in the midst of the characters’ major conflicts. Andi’s odd relationship with her mom (Cherrypie Picache), along with their emotional confrontation quite illustrate the fact.

The movie’s screenplay likewise deserves credit for its originality and modern, crisp dialogues that give it more credibility. Indeed, words have power.

In the end, how the protagonists will deal with their issues and the truth in between bring excitement as the story takes a few surprising turns. Therefore, be prepared to be (pleasantly) shocked.

Also starring in the movie are Beauty Gonzalez, Matet de Leon, Al Tantay, Alma Moreno, Carla Martinez, Chung Sa Jung, Maris Racal, Odette Khan, Trina Legaspi. The Third Party is showing simultaneously in cinemas nationwide. Catch it!