DON’T EXPECT TOO much from ‘I Love You, Hater’ — that’s the mindset that will actually let you enjoy it, largely thanks to its leads, Joshua Garcia and Julia Barretto.

Zoey (Barretto) and Joko (Garcia) are competing for the same job, assistant to media magnate Sasha (Kris Aquino), and the story unfolds from there. Joko pretends to be gay to win Zoey over, needing the money to support his family in the province after leading them to believe he’s working a good job in New York.

Giselle Andres’ direction is uneven, but ‘I Love You, Hater’ still has several strong moments, mostly courtesy of Barretto and Garcia — cliché scenes aside. Their chemistry and performances carried real kilig moments, and a few tearful ones too, this reviewer included.

The peak of the film, a confrontation between Zoey and Joko, best showcases Barretto’s acting and how well she works on screen with Garcia. It’s the scene that gives Andres the most credit, even if it could have been sharper still.

Kris Aquino, for her part, plays a version of herself but never quite makes it feel natural or effective. Still, the film isn’t as much of a mess as some others this season (see: MMLF), even with some obvious ad placements. Iflix. Enervon.

Still, ‘I Love You, Hater’ proves Joshua and Julia are a tandem to beat — and to love, if moviegoers are any indication. Given better material, these two could conquer even bigger territory in Philippine cinema. And if we heard it right, they’re up next with director Mikhail Red for ‘Block Z’ in 2019. Fans can only get excited.

Joshua and Julia (Joshlia) first won us over during MMFF 2016’s ‘Vince and Kath and James’ [Read Review Here], followed by ‘I Love You to the Stars and Back’ and ‘Unexpectedly Yours.’

Movie Rating: 6/10.

Should you watch it? Why not?

Disclaimer: I watched it along with JoshLia Squad at Fishermall. And yes, I support Joshua Garcia.