TV & Film
In a sea of romantic comedies with seemingly perfect protagonists, a few movies such as Silver Linings Playbook (2012) or Kita Kita (2017) have attempted to revitalize the genre with a common denominator: Genuinely flawed characters who live life in the real world. Rod Marmol’s Cuddle Weather puts itself alongside these gems by daring to show another complex, unconventional relationship. Having two sex workers as romantic leads may be a seemingly unusual set-up, but the final result is an authentic, funny, and heartwarming story.
This narrative follows Adela Johnson (Sue Ramirez), a longtime prostitute in Metro Manila’s Poblacion area. Despite her job’s high financial returns, she struggles with her desire to quit the game and the loneliness she endures from it. However, things change when she takes neophyte Ram (RK Bagatsing) under her wing as an apprentice. Eventually, their relationship becomes more complex as they become cuddle buddies who slowly develop intimate feelings for one another.
Despite its explicit premise, the film does not exploit sexual themes. Rather, Cuddle Weather pays more attention to the humanity of its characters and their everyday hardships as sex workers. Several scenes deal with discrimination against them, given the poor perception of their night jobs. Through the sensitive narrative, viewers develop empathy for the characters as they provide a glimpse into the harsh realities that we don’t talk about enough.
Ramirez as Adela is particularly intriguing, as she effortlessly conveys both the magnetism and vulnerability of her character. She embodies her role with a certain charisma that amplifies her onscreen presence. Ramirez gamely captures the daring aspects of the wily Adela with bold swagger, emphasizing how her character is a shrewd, learned, but jaded industry expert. In complementing Ramirez’ outward sass, Bagatsing portrays Ram with earnest intensity. No less sensitive in his performance, he brings a wide-eyed levity to Ram which helps every quirky hugot line and witty one-liner land with authenticity.
To better frame the leads’ chemistry, Cuddle Weather’s visual style strategically uses wide-angles, close-ups, and tracking shots. High-contrast hues highlight the neon-lit nightlife of Poblacion in a hyper realistic fashion akin to the aesthetic of Blade Runner (1982) or Nerve (2016). With this, the bustling setting captivates, even when scenes are set in the evening. The film’s overall look draws viewers in and keeps them engaged long enough to tell a moving story underneath all the eye candy.
As a refreshing romcom, Cuddle Weather is a genuine portrayal of life and finding love where you’d least expect it. The solid performances, eye-catching visuals, and unorthodox story make this an addition to the genre that audiences shouldn’t miss—this sweet flick is sure to make its mark, whatever the weather.
