Regal Entertainment and Project 8 Projects bring together the breakout “Pinoy Big Brother: Gen 11” tandem, Fyang Smith and JM Ibarra, for their first big-screen pairing in “Almost Us.” Helmed by acclaimed director Dan Villegas, this romantic comedy doesn’t just bank on the popularity of the “JMFyang” love team—it delivers a heartfelt, youthful spin on the classic “best friends in love” trope.
Plot That Hits Close to Home
“Almost Us” centers on RR (JM Ibarra), who’s harbored feelings for his best friend Janine (Fyang Smith) for as long as he can remember. The twist? Janine is head-over-heels for Kenzo, the dreamy lead of her own fan fiction. When RR finds a way for Janine to meet her crush, he’s torn between risking his own happiness or selflessly ensuring hers.
While the storyline feels familiar, the film’s honest portrayal of unspoken love and selflessness resonates. Almost everyone has had an “almost” love—a story that could’ve been—and this movie captures that bittersweet feeling perfectly.
Chemistry That Sparks
What truly sets “Almost Us” apart is the palpable chemistry between Fyang Smith and JM Ibarra. Their performances are nuanced, raw, and relatable, elevating the film beyond its formulaic structure. They don’t just play their roles—they live them, making audiences root for their journey every step of the way.
Director Dan Villegas expertly balances nostalgic romcom vibes with a refreshing, Gen Z perspective. The film takes you back to a time when love was overwhelming and all-consuming, yet it also feels current—reflecting today’s youth and their ways of navigating relationships and heartbreak.
“Almost Us” isn’t just a treat for the “JMFyang” fandom. It’s a showcase for two rising stars with undeniable potential, earning praise from industry heavyweights:
“I’M A MAJOR FAN OF JM AND FYANG, JM AND FYANG, FOREVER!” – Direk Jose Javier Reyes
“THE BIRTH OF TWO GREAT ACTORS"—Direk Kip Oebanda
Final Verdict
“Almost Us” may tread familiar territory, but it does so with sincerity, charm, and standout performances from JM Ibarra and Fyang Smith. If you’re craving a feel-good romantic comedy that reminds you of the thrill and ache of young love—Gen Z-ified for today—this film is absolutely worth a watch.
