Kim Chiu and Paulo Avelino Share the Magic of Love and Community Worldwide in “My Love Will Make You Disappear“
A new on-screen duo emerges this spring as Star Cinema follows the global success of Hello, Love, Again (2024) with another must-watch romance. The studio pairs two of the most beloved names in Philippine entertainment — Kim Chiu and Paulo Avelino — in My Love Will Make You Disappear. After captivating audiences in hit TV dramas Linlang (2023) and the Filipino rendition of What’s Wrong With Secretary Kim (2024), the duo reunites for their first big-screen collaboration.
Premiering in U.S. and Canadian theaters on March 28, 2025, the film promises to capture hearts worldwide while delivering the uniquely Filipino kilig: the giddy thrill of romantic excitement. Haunted by a mysterious curse that binds their fates, My Love Will Make You Disappear blends humor, heartfelt moments, and a touch of magic, making it a potential global sensation for Filipino cinema.
During their North American tour, EnVi sat down with Chiu and Avelino for an exclusive interview, where they shared their excitement and their behind-the-scenes insights about the upcoming film.
Stepping into Rom-com and Kilig with KimPau
The film is a notably kilig-filled romance, a stark contrast to the heavy dramas and intense roles that both Kim Chiu and Paulo Avelino have previously taken on. The story follows Sari (Chiu), a woman cursed so that any man she falls in love with vanishes, and Jolo (Avelino), a brooding yet charming landlord who challenges her decision to swear off romance. As Sari and Jolo develop their relationship within the tight-knit community of Tahanan Homes, My Love Will Make You Disappear brings a cinematic experience that will leave audiences wondering whether love can conquer their fears.
“It’s very different from what I’ve been doing in the past,” Avelino admitted. “It’s just a breath of fresh air to do a rom-com and to see everyone actually happy on the set, smiling on the set. No one’s too serious aside from me. I’m hoping that our viewers, or the people who watch our movie in cinemas, I hope that feeling transcends to them — the happiness, those smiles, that feeling of kilig.”
Avelino, who built his career on complex roles in indie films, primetime dramas like Walang Hanggan (2012) his renowned role in historical epics like Heneral Luna (2015), is stepping into a new charm through Jolo and proving his versatility.
Chiu, on the other hand, is no stranger to rom-coms, having led box-office hits like Bride for Rent (2014) and Bakit Hindi Ka Crush ng Crush Mo? (2013). However, her ability to switch seamlessly between genres from drama (Etiquette for Mistresses) to horror (The Healing) has made her one of the most adaptable actresses in the industry.
“I think the genre of romantic comedy is needed nowadays,” Chiu shared. “Sometimes, with all the problems that we’re facing, we forget how to laugh and how to love and how to be kind. So I think with this movie, after watching this, everyone will be reminded about love, and will be reminded that love can make you happy. And we want to share the healing all over the world,” she added.
A Star-Studded Cast
Besides Chiu and Avelino, the star-studded ensemble of My Love Will Make You Disappear brings Tahanan Homes to life with unforgettable characters. From the dramatic Aling Nida, played by Wilma Doesnt, to the playful and loving couple Jesse and Rom, portrayed by Martin Escudero and Migs Almendras, the cast delivers performances that sprinkle heart and humor into the film. Also adding to the film’s charm is Cookie the guinea pig, the story’s quirky narrator voiced by Melai Cantiveros who instantly became a beloved presence on set.
Director Chad Vidanes also served as the glue that kept the cast close as his calm demeanor and ability to lead with playfulness created an environment where everyone could bring their best to the set.
As Avelino notes, the dynamics between the cast were electric. “One thing I learned about doing rom-coms and having a big cast, I mean, a very interesting cast like this, is how rowdy it gets,” he said with a laugh. “Everyone just laughing, everyone’s just loud, just celebrating everything. Everyone saying their own opinions, and it’s just fun chaos.”
Chiu agrees, highlighting the significance of the Tahanan Homes community in enriching the film’s portrayal of love. “Having this community in the film added spice, it’s like the icing of the cupcake,” she explained. “Without them, it’s just a plain love story, but with them, it becomes something deeper, something more meaningful. Love is not just about two people. It’s about everyone, and sharing the kilig of Joli and Sari with the Tahanan Homes community [also] shares it with people watching the film.”
Bringing a Sense of Tahanan Worldwide
Beyond the magical romance, My Love Will Make You Disappear underscores the strength and resilience of Filipino communities, both in the Philippines and abroad. The film’s setting reflects the sense of familial support that is central to Filipino culture. As Sari seeks comfort in the quirky tenants of the building, their shared bond becomes a symbol of unity and togetherness as a theme that resonates with the film’s audience.
“As Filipinos, family is everything,” Avelino shared. “Filipinos abroad feel homesick and miss their loved ones. But the good thing about Filipinos is also the community they’ve built … wherever they are. It’s that community that becomes family — a family away from home.”
This powerful theme of community and connection is not just central to the film but also the film’s promotions. Chiu and Avelino have been engaging with their overseas Filipino audiences through an exclusive fan meet and upcoming special screenings in California on March 28, 29, and 30.
Chiu agrees, reflecting back to Sari’s story and the importance of having people to rely on. “I think family is not just about blood,” she said. “It’s about the bond you create, whether you’re Filipino, American, Canadian, or from anywhere. Because your emotions, you don’t have to keep them to yourself. You need to share them for you to get through it”
A Love That Won’t Disappear
As the countdown to its March 28, 2025 release begins, My Love Will Make You Disappear is already creating buzz as one of the most anticipated Filipino films of the year. With Kim Chiu and Paulo Avelino as a long-awaited tandem, the movie promises a perfect mix of laughter, romance, and heart-warming moments.
Want to read more exclusive interviews with Filipino movie stars? Check out EnVi’s exclusive interview with Kathryn and Alden here!
