Once Upon a Time... Happily Never After (2022)

Review Team

4/5

Once Upon a Time... Happily Never After, directed by Manolo Caro, presents a charming yet poignant exploration of love's endurance against the backdrop of a fantastical curse. The film revolves around a couple tragically separated by fate, their journey through time and different lives to reunite is ... Show more >> Once Upon a Time... Happily Never After, directed by Manolo Caro, presents a charming yet poignant exploration of love's endurance against the backdrop of a fantastical curse. The film revolves around a couple tragically separated by fate, their journey through time and different lives to reunite is both heartwarming and thought-provoking. Caro's direction shines in the way he balances the whimsical elements with the emotional weight of the story. The cinematography beautifully captures the contrasting moods of the narrative, from the enchanting landscapes to the intimate moments shared between the leads. The performances are compelling, particularly from the leads, who bring depth and nuance to their characters. While the pacing might falter slightly in the middle, the film ultimately delivers a satisfying conclusion that resonates with its audience. Overall, this film is a delightful watch for anyone who appreciates a blend of fantasy and romance. Show less

Editor Team

3/5

Once Upon a Time... Happily Never After offers an interesting premise but stumbles in execution. While the idea of a couple trying to break a curse is engaging, the film’s pacing feels uneven, often dragging when it should be building tension. The performances are decent, but they lack the spark nee ... Show more >> Once Upon a Time... Happily Never After offers an interesting premise but stumbles in execution. While the idea of a couple trying to break a curse is engaging, the film’s pacing feels uneven, often dragging when it should be building tension. The performances are decent, but they lack the spark needed to fully engage the audience. The tourists introduced in the story add some conflict, but their presence feels like an unnecessary distraction rather than a meaningful addition. Caro's direction has moments of brilliance, particularly in visual storytelling, yet it sometimes falls short of creating a cohesive narrative. The emotional highs are there, but they are often overshadowed by pacing issues and underdeveloped subplots. For those looking for a light fantasy romance, it may still be worth a watch, but it doesn’t quite hit the mark. Show less