Angel & Richard in "The Promise'

THE most redundant phrase we heard Angel Locsin and Richard Gutierrez said about their Valentine movie “The Promise” is, “maganda po ang pelikula at sobrang pinaghirapan namin ito,” or something to that effect.

We discovered the truth and the fruits of their labor during the elaborate press preview of the nth retelling of an adaptation of the romantic classic “Wuthering Heights” held at the Podium last Friday night.

And our verdict? Well, never mind the French line briefly uttered by the lead characters on the seashore, “The Promise” will captivate and enthrall you just as “The Notebook” did. For one, the cinematography is simply breathtaking and the music is absorbing and powerful. It is like a magnificent painting coming to life before your very eyes.

The youthful and wonderful cast did their homework well from Rhian Ramos (her first movie appearance in a major role) who is more than just a ravishing beauty to TJ Trinidad who absorbed his character well. Angel Locsin was so right when she said that she would not be able to enact those passionate scenes if Richard Gutierrez was not her leading man. They are a sight to behold and so comfortable with one another. Even the love-team of Mark Herras and Jennylyn Mercado would pale in comparison with what Angel and Richard showed in “The Promise.” Their chemistry smoulders and it is hard to duplicate.

The biggest revelation, of course, is the transformation of Richard Gutierrez from a teen heartthrob into an actor. He came out with an intense portrayal of Gabriel from whose point of view “The Promise” revolves. He is definitely on his way to tackling a new phase in his movie career which will bring him favorable results.

What better gift to treat your love one than to bring her to the nearest theater this Valentine to watch The Promise. It won’t even hurt your pocket.

Kudos to Mike Tuviera for a splendid job like “The Promise” and promise us you will give us more in the near future, Valentine or not.