Movie Review: Gameboys: The Movie

Kokoy de Santos and Elijah Canlas in Gameboys: the movie

Jump to the good stuff: The Story | Some Thoughts | The Final Verdict

Rating: 3.5 out of 5.

The Story:

Gameboys: The Movie is the continuing story of Gavreel (Kokoy de Santos) and Cairo (Elijah Canlas), the two boys who became lovers after meeting during a live stream of an online game.

The film takes place with Cairo spending time at Gavreel’s house for a few weeks before having to go back to the province. During this time, their friends Terrence (Kyle Velino) and Wesley (Miggy Jimenez), who once dated, have also come to stay with them. And since Terrence arrives unannounced, he and Wesley must share a room. As you can imagine, this makes for a slightly uncomfortable situation.

But tensions mount even more when Susan (Angie Castrence), Gavreel’s homophobic aunt who does not know that he is gay, drops in unannounced and decides to stay for an unknown period of time. And while she’s staying, both Cairo and Gavreel have to keep their love a secret and endure her rudeness and head games. Is their relationship strong enough to withstand Susan?

Some Thoughts:

Gameboys: The Movie is a delightful light romance that will leave you with a smile. De Santos and Canlas play Gavreel and Cairo with a heartwarming innocence that will pull you in. If you enjoyed Gameboys (Level-Up Edition), you’ll enjoy Gameboys: The Movie.

Like Gameboys (Level-Up Edition), this one also has a lot of texting, video chats, and vlogging. COVID is still a part of the story, although it’s not quite as pervasive. People are able to travel a bit more freely, but masks are often worn and there’s still talk of being tested and social distancing.

Aside from its charm–which it has in spades–there is nothing special about the film. There is an extra romance thrown in for fun, that of Terrence and Wesley. Also, Gavreel’s gal pal, Pearl (Adrianna So), makes an appearance.

Since this is a romance, there needs to be some turmoil, which is why Gavreel’s aunt shows up. Castrence does a good job with the role, bringing Susan to life and making the situation believable. She’s also a good villain, which the movie needs.

The Final Verdict:

If you’re in the mood for some light, fluffy romance, Gameboys: The Movie delivers. The cast has chemistry and knows how to sell what would otherwise be an unbelievable film.

You can read my review of Gameboys (Level-Up Edition) here.