"UnMarry": A Thoughtful Exploration of Annulment and New Beginnings

In the film "UnMarry," director Jeffrey Jeturian delves into the complex and often painful process of annulment within the cultural context of the Philippines, a predominantly Catholic country where ending a marriage is viewed as a last resort. The story centers on Celine (Angelica Panganiban) and Ivan (Zanjoe Marudo), two individuals navigating the dissolution of their marriages through annulment procedures.

The narrative unfolds with a chance meeting in the law office of their attorney, Jacqueline (Eugene Domingo), whose double-booked appointments lead to an unexpected connection. This moment sparks a bond between Celine and Ivan as they confront their shared struggles. The screenplay, crafted by Chris Martinez and Therese Cayaba, skillfully combines elements of courtroom drama and romantic comedy, providing both insightful commentary and engaging entertainment.

"UnMarry" opens with Atty. Jackie explaining the annulment process via her law-focused YouTube channel, setting a practical tone before transitioning into the emotional territory of the legal battles and personal conflicts the characters face. The film vividly portrays the pressures couples endure, the trauma of reliving painful memories, and the impact on children caught in custody disputes.

Angelica Panganiban delivers a compelling performance as Celine, a determined entrepreneur from Cavite seeking freedom from her controlling husband, portrayed by Tom Rodriguez. Zanjoe Marudo embodies Ivan, a struggling artist grappling with his career setbacks and personal demons, including alcoholism. Their nuanced portrayals anchor the film, with Panganiban’s character offering a particularly resonant exploration of empowerment and healing.

Eugene Domingo provides a grounded and comedic presence as the couple’s attorney, guiding viewers through the complexities of annulment law while maintaining the film’s lighthearted undertones. Additional performances, such as Shamaine Buencamino’s portrayal of Celine’s supportive mother, add emotional depth to the story.

Through its deft balance of humor and gravity, "UnMarry" examines the painful realities of ending a marriage in the Philippines, highlighting the emotional toll on everyone involved. The film’s honest depiction and relatable characters make it a standout entry in recent cinematic offerings, earning recognition as the second-best picture in the Metro Manila Film Festival (MMFF). Jeffrey Jeturian’s direction ensures the film resonates even with audiences unfamiliar with annulment proceedings, making "UnMarry" both an enlightening and moving experience.