A gentle throwback to first love — “With Love” Movie Review
Some memories never fade, especially those of first love. “With Love” builds its narrative around this universal emotion, presenting a soft romantic drama that explores how early relationships shape our lives long after they end. What begins as a simple arranged-marriage meeting between a young man and woman gradually unfolds into an emotional journey through their pasts, where both revisit their first experiences of love and heartbreak.
The film takes a nostalgic route, diving into the innocence of school-age romance and the bittersweet feeling of separation that often follows. Instead of relying on dramatic twists or commercial elements, the story chooses a more realistic and relatable path. Through a series of conversations and flashbacks, the narrative gently examines whether one can truly move on from their first love or if those memories continue to influence future relationships.
Abishan Jeevinth delivers a sincere performance, portraying the emotional vulnerability of a young man reflecting on his past. His expressions and body language add authenticity to the character’s journey. Anaswara Rajan complements him well with a composed and natural performance, bringing grace and emotional depth to her role. Their on-screen chemistry forms the emotional backbone of the film and keeps the narrative engaging.
The film’s music plays a crucial role in enhancing its mood. Soft melodies and a subtle background score help sustain the emotional tone without overpowering the scenes. Visually, the film maintains a pleasant aesthetic, with neat cinematography that captures both the freshness of young love and the reflective mood of the present timeline.
While the pacing may feel slow at times, it suits the film’s intention of telling a calm, emotion-driven story. “With Love” does not aim to be a high-energy entertainer; instead, it functions as a gentle reminder of the sweetness and pain associated with first love. Audiences who appreciate soft romantic dramas and nostalgic storytelling are likely to find this film relatable and heartfelt.
Rating: 3.5/5