Jump to the good stuff: The Story | Some Thoughts | The Final Verdict
The Story:
Lovebirds (2008) is about Mario (Joseph Ison), a closeted man living with his parents in the Philippines. With the help of his best friend, Ton Ton (Adrian Ramirez), he meets Alexis (Andrés Alexis) on the internet and the two begin chatting and exchanging pictures. Because Alexis lives in Spain and Mario in the Philippines, they haven’t met in person.
After some texting and email exchanges, Mario invites Alexis to visit and stay with him. The problem is, he’s not out to his family. And every attempt he makes to do so prior to Alexis’s arrival does not go well. What follows is a romantic comedy full of surprises.
Some Thoughts:
Lovebirds is a foolish story that works despite its somewhat unbelievable plot. Mario is old enough to know that he would have to come out to his parents or tell them that Alexis is a friend for the situation to work. What makes the film easy to swallow is that the characters are lovable, Mario comes across as innocent, and the mother is somewhat ridiculous.
Although the acting has a lot to be desired and the direction and cinematography are nothing special, the film has a sweetness that holds it together. The story is never dull, and the events that follow once Alexis arrives are realistic, even if the premise isn’t. The plot also chugs along at a decent pace.
This film would have been better with a bigger budget, but it was made with heart, and it shows. There’s not a lot to Lovebirds, but what there is will keep you entertained.
The Final Verdict:
Lovebirds is a sweet romantic comedy that works despite its many flaws.
