Under Parallel Skies brings a story that feels both familiar and bittersweet. At its core, it tells the tale of a classic "opposites attract" romance—an arrogant, emotionally disconnected man meets a spirited woman who teaches him the true meaning of happiness. While the premise may not be ground-breaking, the film carries enough warmth and charm to resonate with viewers who enjoy heartfelt romances tinged with melancholy.
The film follows Iris, a Filipino receptionist working at a five-star hotel in Hong Kong. She’s full of life, bringing positivity to her surroundings despite her own hidden struggles. Enter Parin, a wealthy, spoiled young man who’s lost his way in life. After a night of heavy drinking, he stumbles into Iris’ hotel, and she compassionately takes care of him. This chance encounter sparks something in Parin, who quickly develops a fondness for Iris and convinces her boss to let her be his caretaker.
What begins as an unlikely friendship soon turns into an intimate bond. Together, they explore Hong Kong’s vibrant streets, trying exotic Thai and Indian cuisine, and sharing their dreams and personal stories. Iris dreams of opening her own café, but her financial struggles make it seem impossible. Parin, who comes from wealth, offers to help her fulfill this dream—a gesture that reveals his growing affection and transformation under her influence.
Alongside their romantic escapades, Parin embarks on a personal quest to reconnect with his estranged mother, who left his family in Thailand to be with her first love. When Parin finally tracks her down and sees the joy she has found in her new life, he begins to understand the true meaning of happiness—something his wealth had never given him.
However, beneath the light-heartedness of their budding romance, a shadow looms: Iris is suffering from a terminal illness. This revelation adds a poignant layer to the story, as the characters’ joy is now tinged with the knowledge that their time together is limited.
The film excels in its portrayal of Hong Kong as a cultural melting pot, with beautiful visuals of the city and its cuisine, but its strength lies in the heartfelt performances of its leads. Iris, in particular, is a standout character, embodying a resilient optimism that lights up every scene.
Under Parallel Skies is a gentle reminder of love’s power to heal, but also of life’s fragility, making it a touching, albeit melancholic, watch. However, it is nothing new. The movie treads familiar ground with its romantic tropes and predictable storyline. Chances are that we have seen this plot before many times in different languages.
The acting, unfortunately, falls short of elevating the film’s emotional depth. While the story has the potential for moving performances, the actors deliver largely average portrayals that lack the nuance needed to connect with the audience truly. The chemistry between the leads feels somewhat forced at times, preventing the relationship from feeling as natural or profound as it could be. Lastly. The movie feels more like a Hong Kong Tourism and a food vlog.
Final Score- [5/10]
Reviewed by - Neerja Choudhuri
Follow @NeerjaCH on Twitter
Publisher at Midgard Times