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Manila Bulletin devider Entertainment devider Movies and TV devider 'Almost Us': Fyang Smith proves she's more than hype in delightful, heartfelt rom-com

'Almost Us': Fyang Smith proves she's more than hype in delightful, heartfelt rom-com

Published May 8, 2026 05:59 pm

At A Glance

  • 'Almost Us' delivers kilig, humor, and emotional honesty, while Fyang Smith silences doubters with a breakout performance opposite JM Ibarra.

Against expectations, “Almost Us” ended up being one of the year’s most pleasant surprises, and a big part of that credit goes to Fyang Smith.

Like many, I’ll admit I initially dismissed Fyang as just another overnight reality show breakout whose fame felt more tied to controversy than craft.

So when respected industry veterans like Michael de Mesa and Dina Bonnevie started praising her acting, and producer Roselle Monteverde even floated the idea of her being a possible heir apparent to Maricel Soriano, I got curious.

Curious enough to actually sit down and watch “Almost Us.”

Fyang proves she is far more than hype. She owns every scene with confidence, charm, and surprising emotional intelligence.

Whether delivering comedy, kilig-filled romantic moments, or emotionally vulnerable scenes, she transitions effortlessly with nuance and control rarely seen from someone relatively new to acting.
Her portrayal of Janine, better known as Bulots, feels lived-in and natural.

That said, her chemistry with JM Ibarra is the film’s emotional center.

As RR or Pip, JM serves as the perfect counterbalance to Fyang’s energy. Where she is fiery and impulsive, he is grounded and restrained. Their connection never feels manufactured.

Directed by Dan Villegas and written by Miguel Sevilla, “Almost Us” breathes fresh life into the overused best-friends-to-lovers formula. It is paced just right, with enough energy and bounce to maintain a youthful vibe that feels real: messy, awkward, vulnerable.

Supporting performances also elevate the film.

Dustin Yu brings undeniable charisma as Kenzo, while Yukii Takahashi perfectly embodies Sue as someone who could easily steal RR or Pip’s attention—and possibly his heart. 
The side dynamics involving Sam Samarita and JM Salvador add even more charm to the proceedings.
More than just an entertaining rom-com, “Almost Us” is reflective of a generation that’s brave enough to flirt and kiss, yet still terrified to say what truly matters.
It’s funny, touching, and unexpectedly affecting, leaving a wistful smile on your face long after the credits roll.
"Almost Us" is now in cinemas.

Related Tags

Almost Us Fyang Smith JM Ibarra Dan Villegas Miguel Sevilla Dustin Yu Yukii Takahashi Filipino rom-coms movie review
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