Name: Missed Connections
Genre: Romance, Comedy, Drama
Released: 2023-06-02T00:00:00+00:00
Cast: Miles Ocampo, Kelvin Miranda, Chie Filomeno, JC Santos, Matet De Leon

The opening scene of Jelise Chung’s Missed Connections (2023) is a masterclass in romantic comedy setup: Mae (Miles Ocampo), our hopelessly idealistic protagonist, locks eyes with Norman (Kelvin Miranda) on a crowded subway platform, their moment fleeting as the train doors slide shut between them. It’s a simple premise—one that leans heavily on the urban mythos of Craigslist’s “Missed Connections”—but Chung frames it with such specificity that the scenario feels fresh.

The film follows Mae’s determined quest to track down Norman using an app designed for reconnecting with strangers, and here Chung demonstrates a keen understanding of digital-era dating culture. The screenplay, while occasionally meandering, excels in small, sharp observations: Mae’s frantic scrolling through profiles, her friends’ (Chie Filomeno as Julia and JC Santos as Mark) exasperated but supportive reactions, even the way her grandmother (Matet De Leon) casually dismisses modern dating as “too complicated.” These moments ground the film in a reality that feels lived-in rather than staged.

Where Missed Connections falters is in its pacing. The first act zips along with palpable energy, but once Mae locates Norman, the story stalls. Their initial meetings are charming—Ocampo and Miranda share an easy chemistry—but the film struggles to sustain momentum as it shifts into a more conventional rom-com structure. Scenes that should crackle with tension or humor instead linger too long, and Chung’s direction becomes overly reliant on broad comedic beats rather than the subtle wit that defined the film’s opening.

The performances are another mixed bag. Ocampo shines as Mae, balancing vulnerability and determination with ease. Her emotional range is impressive, particularly in quieter moments where she grapples with self-doubt. Miranda, however, feels underutilized; Norman remains an enigma for too long, and when he finally opens up, it’s hard to shake the sense that his character could have benefited from more depth earlier on.

Chung’s originality lies in her ability to mine humor and heart from a premise that could easily devolve into clichés. The film’s exploration of modern romance—its pitfalls, its absurdities, and its occasional moments of genuine connection—feels authentic. Yet the genre fit is where Missed Connections stumbles most. While it occasionally veers into dramatic territory, the tonal shifts feel uneven, leaving the audience unsure whether to laugh or empathize.

The film’s strongest asset is its commitment to exploring the nuances of modern dating. Mae’s journey isn’t just about finding love; it’s about understanding herself and what she truly wants. This introspection sets Missed Connections apart from more superficial rom-coms, but it also makes the film feel slower and more deliberate than its genre counterparts. For viewers who appreciate a romantic comedy with depth and substance, this approach is refreshing. However, those looking for a lightweight, breezy escape might find the pacing frustrating.

Chung’s direction is generally assured, though she occasionally struggles to balance humor and drama. The film’s visual style is unremarkable but serviceable, relying on standard rom-com tropes like montages of Mae scrolling through dating profiles or awkward first dates. The soundtrack, however, is a standout, featuring a mix of upbeat pop songs and more introspective tracks that perfectly complement the film’s emotional beats.

The supporting cast adds depth to the story. Chie Filomeno as Julia brings a grounded energy to her role as Mae’s best friend, offering both comedic relief and heartfelt advice. JC Santos as Mark provides a welcome dose of humor, while Matet De Leon as Tita Dess delivers some of the film’s most memorable lines with dry wit. Jericho Arceo as Jeric and Aloysius Noroña as Dad round out the cast, adding layers to Mae’s personal life.

Thematically, Missed Connections explores the idea of second chances and the persistence required to find love in a digital age. It’s a timely exploration, given the prevalence of dating apps and the way they’ve changed how people connect. The film also touches on the loneliness that can come with modern living, particularly in bustling cities where people are surrounded by strangers yet often feel isolated.

However, the film’s reliance on the “missed connection” trope means it sometimes feels derivative. While Chung puts her own spin on the concept, the story doesn’t break enough new ground to feel truly original. The pacing issues also hold the film back from reaching its full potential. A tighter script and more focused direction could have elevated Missed Connections into something truly special.

In the end, Missed Connections is a charming but flawed romantic comedy that will resonate most with viewers who appreciate introspection and authenticity in their love stories.