TV & Film
Starring real-life couple Khalil Ramos and Gabbi Garcia, Jade Castro’s LSS (Last Song Syndrome) is a musical force to be reckoned with. The film focuses on two fans of the rising folk pop band Ben&Ben and how their mutual love for the group’s music eventually connects their vastly different lives. With dynamic acting, the leads’ authentic chemistry, and a nostalgic soundtrack, LSS surely stands out as an appealing, unconventional romantic comedy.
Contrary to others in the genre, this film establishes how romance doesn’t always start with falling in love. According to LSS, romance can also be about finding a significant other to grow with amid the chaos of one’s personal life. With a narrative that spans three years, LSS gives enough screen time to the leads’ individuality before introducing them as a pair: Sarah (Garcia) is an aspiring musician still trying to support her brother’s education and Zack (Ramos) is a heartbroken software engineer who has constantly failed at pursuing his female best friend. The audience then discovers the root of their relationship: The characters’ hopelessness, remedied by the solace they found in each other’s touch.
Sarah and Zack find each other because of Ben&Ben’s music, and LSS’ intelligent use of the band’s discography takes the spotlight. Ben&Ben’s wistful, soaring lyrics build the atmosphere of longing that supports Ramos and Garcia’s undeniable chemistry. As an additional treat, the two leads perform their own renditions of classic Ben&Ben hits during key points of the film—tugging at heartstrings and making audiences swoon.
Alongside the score, it’s Garcia and Ramos’ heart-wrenching performances that help sell this story. In one striking scene, they ultimately collide with each other, both speechless and in tears, as music fills the sequence. The regret and longing is palpable as they slowly face each other, seemingly finding comfort in the other—all without the use of dialogue.
When it comes to cinematography, however, the film slightly loses its rhythm. Certain scenes had the leads off-focus due to awkward framing and jerky panning. There are some moments where the camera does not concentrate on the character speaking, and so the editing appears somewhat choppy. Fortunately, the film isn’t dragged down in spite of this and LSS continues to charm with its story and sound.
This is a heartwarming take on a couple’s journey to find their place in the world and in each other’s hearts. With Ramos and Garcia hitting the right notes, LSS proves to be a strong contender in musical romance. And just like the best of Ben&Ben’s songs, it ends with a firm clasp of hands and a melody that seems to fade—only to linger in the audience’s thoughts after the credits roll.
