Hello, Love Again attempts to rekindle the charm of heartfelt romance but falters with slow pacing and a storyline that leans too heavily on predictable tropes. This engaging film beautifully explores the complexities of long-distance relationships while highlighting the unique struggles couples face as they embark on their career journeys together.
The story begins in the spring of 2020 when Ethan visits Joy in Calgary, where she works as a domestic helper. Eager to solidify their relationship, Ethan proposes marriage. However, the unexpected lockdown forces him to stay in Canada, and as months pass, their relationship begins to crack. Ethan, who once managed a bar in Hong Kong, struggles with his new reality—taking on menial jobs while his business collapses in his absence.
A year later, tragedy strikes when Ethan’s father contracts COVID-19. Rushing back to Hong Kong, Ethan arrives too late, his father having passed away before he could say goodbye. Overcome with grief and frustration, Ethan makes a reckless decision—one that shatters Joy’s trust. During a video call, she catches him with another woman, leading her to call off their engagement.
Three years later, Joy has moved on, working at a nursing home while preparing to apply for a U.S. visa. A chance encounter at the airport brings her face-to-face with Ethan, who has now come to Canada with their mutual friend Jhim in search of better opportunities. Joy now goes by the name Marie claiming that she no longer associates herself with her past life. Their meetings are awkward at first, but circumstances keep pulling them together. When a colleague, Baby, openly pursues Ethan with hopes of securing her own future. This obviously makes Jot jealous. Ethan's feelings are visible even after the breakup. But will Joy be able to bury the past and accept Ethan back?
The film excels in portraying the emotional weight of long-distance relationships, financial struggles, and the impact of the pandemic on personal and professional lives. The chemistry between the leads brings authenticity to their journey, making their pain and lingering connection feel genuine. The cinematography beautifully captures the contrast between the bustling streets of Hong Kong and the quieter, snow-covered landscapes of Canada, reinforcing the themes of displacement and longing.
While the emotional core is strong, Hello, Love Again suffers from sluggish pacing, especially in the middle act. Scenes tend to drag, making the film feel longer than necessary. Additionally, the plot treads familiar ground, relying on overused romantic tropes—misunderstandings, accidental encounters, and last-minute confessions—without offering a fresh perspective. The subplot involving Ethan’s one-night stand feels rushed and underdeveloped, making it hard to grasp his motivations fully or redemption arc.
The film’s resolution, though satisfying in some aspects, feels somewhat forced, as if tying up loose ends rather than allowing the characters to evolve naturally. Joy’s sudden proposal to have Ethan move in feels out of character, given her earlier heartbreak, making it difficult to fully invest in their renewed relationship.
For fans of sentimental love stories, Hello, Love Again offers moments of genuine emotion and beautifully shot sequences. However, its slow pacing and reliance on predictable plot points prevent it from being truly memorable. While the performances are commendable, the narrative could have benefitted from tighter editing and more originality.
Final Score- [6/10]
Reviewed by - Neerja Choudhuri
Follow @NeerjaCH on Twitter
Publisher at Midgard Times