Carlo Aquino and Charlie Dizon star as blue-collared workers determined to find bliss in “Third World Romance,” showing in cinemas nationwide beginning August 16 (Wednesday).

Britney (Charlie), an outspoken grocery cashier, and Alvin (Carlo), a laid-back grocery bagger, strive to be content and happy together despite the harsh realities of life.

But when Britney faces a tough choice between family and her own happiness, she realizes that nothing in life comes for free.

Can Alvin and Britney’s love thrive in a world where happiness continues to be a luxury?

“'Yung mensahe ng movie namin, mahirap man maging masaya pero hangga’t may kasama ka na dadamay sa’yo magiging magaan ang buhay,” shared Charlie.

Meanwhile, Carlo described his character as laid-back but knows when to fight for survival. He said, “Chill lang siya pero lumalaban pa rin sa buhay.”

“Third World Romance” is directed by Dwein Ruedas Baltazar, the movie director behind “Oda sa Wala” and “Hello Stranger: The Movie.” The project is a co-production of Black Sheep and Anima.

When asked how the ‘hugot of raket’ plays in the film, Direk Dwein stressed that it is at the core of the story. “Mahalaga kasi ang raket ‘survival’ siya. Nakasentro dun ang conflict ng istorya, kung paano sila mabubuhay araw-araw,” she said.

“Ifo-front natin ang pag-ibig habang dini-discuss ang social issues, trabaho, at iba pang bagay na kinakaharap ng ordinaryong mamamayan,” she added.

The film also stars Ana Abad Santos, Gardo Versoza, Arachie Adamos, Iyah Mina, Esnyr Ranollo, Xilhouette, Brian Black, Lady Morgana, and Junjun Quintana.

Before its theatrical release, “Third World Romance” will be featured as Cinemalaya 2023’s closing film.

Witness the unfolding of Alvin and Britney’s “Third World Romance,” showing in cinemas starting August 16 (Wednesday).