Romantic comedies have long served as a beloved staple of Philippine cinema, shaping pop culture trends, defining screen pairings, and capturing hearts across generations. Yet, as contemporary cinema evolves, so too does the lens through which actors and audiences view traditional storytelling formulas.
In a candid retrospective featured on the TigerBelly podcast, actress Liza Soberano looked back at her 2017 blockbuster film My Ex and Whys, starring alongside her former onscreen partner Enrique Gil. While expressing genuine appreciation for the movie’s overarching narrative, Soberano openly shared her critique of the underlying gender dynamics embedded within the plot.
The actress pointed out the misogynistic undertones that framed her character’s journey. In the film, she plays a blogger who publicly addresses her ex-partner’s past infidelity—an act of vulnerability and self-expression that ultimately results in her character being vilified. Rather than allowing space for accountability and genuine healing, the narrative places societal pressure on her to forgive and reconcile simply to prove that everything is fine.
Soberano’s reflections highlight a growing shift among modern Filipino artists who advocate for nuanced, authentic storytelling. By questioning outdated character arcs, her perspective invites a broader conversation on how local cinema can celebrate romance while portraying balanced, respectful, and self-respecting relationships on screen.
