Is The Manila Lover Worth Watching?
Answer: Maybe not, The Manila Lover is likely a skip if you enjoy Drama movies.
It features a runtime of 26 minutes and offers a standard storyline that appeals to general audiences.
The Manila Lover Review
Last updated: January 10, 2026
The Premise
Released in 2019, The Manila Lover enters the Drama genre with a narrative focused on During a trip to the Philippines, middle-aged Norwegian Lars has met the Filipina he wants to share his life with, but to his surprise she turns him down. Under the direction of Johanna Pyykkö, the film attempts to weave detailed character arcs with visual storytelling.
Cast & Performance
The film is anchored by performances from Øyvind Brandtzæg, Angeli Bayani, Dolly de Leon. While the cast delivers competent performances, the script occasionally limits their range.
Technical Mastery & Style
From a technical standpoint, The Manila Lover offers a competent presentation. The cinematography uses a distinct visual palette that aligns well with the tone. The sharp editing keeps the narrative moving at a brisk pace, maximizing the impact of the key sequences.
Social Impact & Cultural Context
Beyond the narrative, The Manila Lover resonates with current cultural themes in the Drama space. It stays within the established boundaries of its genre, providing exactly what core fans expect without reinventing the wheel.
Where to Watch & Streaming Info
As of January 2026, The Manila Lover is available in theaters worldwide. For streaming audiences in the US, UK, and India, look for availability on major platforms roughly 45-60 days after the theatrical release. Don't miss the high-definition experience provided by premium large format (PLF) screenings.
Narrative Arc & Plot Breakdown
The plot of The Manila Lover centers on a unique premise within the Drama landscape. During a trip to the Philippines, middle-aged Norwegian Lars has met the Filipina he wants to share his life with, but to his surprise she turns him down. Lars now has to face his own prejudices and deal with this uncomfortable situation. The second act serves as a major turning point, leading to a climax that fans of 2019 cinema will find fairly predictable.
Ending Explained & Sequel Potential
The ending of The Manila Lover has sparked significant debate on social media. It signifies the ambiguous resolution of the main plot thread. Given the current box office momentum, discussions of a The Manila Lover sequel or a wider cinematic universe are already gaining traction.
Final Editorial Verdict
Final verdict for The Manila Lover (2019): with an audience rating of 3.2/10, the reception has been negative. It is a recommended for fans of Drama cinema who appreciate attention to detail.
The Manila Lover Box Office Collection
| Metric / Region | Collection (Approx) |
|---|---|
| Production Budget | $138,800 |
| Trade Verdict | FINANCIAL DISAPPOINTMENT |
The Manila Lover Budget
The estimated production budget for The Manila Lover is $138,800. This figure covers principal photography, talent acquisitions, and visual effects. When accounting for global marketing and distribution, the break-even point is typically 2x the base production cost.
Parents Guide & Age Rating
The Manila Lover has not been officially rated yet.
Final Verdict
Analyzing the audience sentiment, IMDb rating of 3.2/10, and global collection metrics, The Manila Lover stands as a challenging project for the creators. It remains an essential piece of the 2019 cinematic year.
Official Trailer
Frequently Asked Questions
Is The Manila Lover movie hit or flop?
The Manila Lover is considered a flop based on audience ratings of 3.2/10 and lower collections.
Is The Manila Lover worth watching?
Based on the low rating of 3.2/10, The Manila Lover may not be worth watching unless you are a die-hard fan.
What genre is The Manila Lover?
The Manila Lover is a Drama movie that During a trip to the Philippines, middle-aged Norwegian Lars has met the Filipina he wants to share his life with, but to his surprise she turns him d...
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People Also Ask (FAQs)
Is The Manila Lover movie hit or flop?
The Manila Lover is considered a flop based on audience ratings of 3.2/10 and lower collections.
Is The Manila Lover worth watching?
Based on the low rating of 3.2/10, The Manila Lover may not be worth watching unless you are a die-hard fan.
What genre is The Manila Lover?
The Manila Lover is a Drama movie that During a trip to the Philippines, middle-aged Norwegian Lars has met the Filipina he wants to share his life with, but to his surprise she turns him d...
Is The Manila Lover family friendly?
The Manila Lover is a Drama movie. Please check the content rating before watching with family.
Where can I watch The Manila Lover?
You can find streaming options and availability for The Manila Lover on popular platforms. Check movieMx for the latest updates and reviews.
Who is the main cast of The Manila Lover?
The Manila Lover features a talented cast. Check our "Top Cast" section to see the full list of actors and the characters they play in this film.
How long is the movie The Manila Lover?
The runtime and duration of The Manila Lover are available in the movie details section. It's a gripping story that keeps you engaged from start to finish.
Critic Reviews
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