"IF ONLY" starts having its run in the Philippines......

By Rito P. Asilo
Inquirer News Service

In Gil Junger's mystical love story, businessman Ian Wyndham (Paul Nicholls) is given a second chance to take stock of his life, and his love for musician-girlfriend Samantha (Jennifer Love Hewitt)-after she dies in an accident.

One morning, as he wakes up, he finds his impetuous, loving girlfriend beside him in bed-alive and kicking! Fate plays a trick on him and gives him a chance to relive the day when she lost her life. Ian grabs at the opportunity to cheat fate and change the course of destiny. But, is love enough? -And, at what price?

Junger's bittersweet romance may not be everybody's cup of cinematic tea, but it serves as a cautionary reminder for people to appreciate the blessings that come their way. It also dispenses lessons about loving and taking chances in life. As the film puts it succinctly: Death doesn't put an end to love!

The movie showcases Hewitt's thespic chops-as well as her vocal pipes, in a scene that demonstrates the former TV star's impressive singing ability. But, what the movie really showcases is the considerable talent of British heartthrob Nicholls. We have been predicting a lucrative film career for Nicholls ever since we caught his remarkable thespic turn in Nicholas Wright's brilliant play on Van Gogh, "Vincent at Brixton," at the Wyndham on London's West End. In this film, he realizes that promise with his unique combination of dramatic skill and charisma.

Story: © 2005 The Philippines Daily Inquirer. All Rights Reserved.
Image: © 2004 If Only Production Services Limited. All Rights Reserved.
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