It is the reunion that is not on anybody’s bingo cards this year.

Former sweethearts Joshua Garcia and Julia Barretto are proof that old flames can work together as they collaborate for a Star Cinema and Viva Films movie titled, “Un/Happy For You,” that will take viewers on an intense emotional rollercoaster this 2024.

In Star Cinema’s new movie alert showcase, Joshua and Julia said that they are both excited to be working together since they have both matured and grown individually.

“At some point, you know, when a good material comes along with a great team, it is such an exciting idea. It is already the right time. We are both in a good place in our lives,” she said. Julia then looked at Joshua and added, “I am happy na magtatrabaho tayo ulit.”

Julia also shared that after their reunion via Moira dela Torre’s “Paubaya” music video three years ago, there have been several attempts to bring her and Joshua together for a project.

For his part, Joshua explained that he immediately agreed to do the movie. “Noong nalaman ko ang project, sabi ko yes agad kasi ang tagal na rin ng agwat noong panahon na nag-work kami. Before kasi, mga teenager pa kami. Ngayon I can say na medyo nag-mature na rin kami. Ang exciting lang na may kanya-kanya kaming journey at magbabalikan kami sa pelikula.”

According to writers Kookai Labayen, Crystal San Miguel, and Jen Chuaunsu, “Un/Happy For You” is not a typical tale about exes coming together again, but is a relatable story about how ex-lovers navigate feelings of anguish and deep affection with someone who once held a special place in their hearts. The writers are also hopeful that the casting of Joshua and Julia will lend an authenticity to the story.

“‘Di ba sinasabi natin sa isang tao na ‘I’m happy for you,’ pero sa totoong buhay, kung hindi tayo magpapaka-mature at magpapakatotoo tayo, sometimes unhappy din naman tayo sa mga taong nanakit sa atin or sa mga taong may atraso sa atin. Doon nangagaling ‘yung title. Kaya naka-slash ‘yung ‘un’ kasi pwede rin namang happy ka sa taong ‘yun,” Kookai explained when asked about the title of the film.

Meanwhile, director Petersen Vargas shared that he is honored to be at the helm of a movie starring Joshua and Julia.

“I am privileged enough to put my own stamp on a JoshLia film just because I have seen all their films together. When they offered to make a JoshLia movie, the inspiration was just overflowing. As their viewer over the years, I feel like this film that we are going to release is the film that I want to see the both of them to be making this year. Kumbaga as an audience, ito ‘yung gusto kong papanooring Joshlia.”

Don’t miss Joshua Garcia and Julia Barretto’s movie comeback in “Un/Happy For You” soon in cinemas nationwide. For more details, watch the new movie alert on Star Cinema’s Facebook and YouTube accounts.