I thought Our Yesterday’s Escape would be boring. However, the longer I watched Episode 1, the more curious I became about the story.
Starring Nicole Omillo and Jairus Aquino, the series introduces Kierra and Shan, who meet at a restaurant and end up having a one-night stand. Kierra thinks it will be the first and last time she sees Shan. But as it turns out, their story does not end there.
A Different Kind of University Romance
The story of Our Yesterday’s Escape is much heavier than I expected. I haven’t read the book, so my reaction is based entirely on what I watched in the first episode. The only thing I knew about the story beforehand was that Shan dies.
Based on what I’ve seen so far, this series has a very different feel from other university dramas. You can sense the seriousness of the story right away. It feels urgent, and it is clearly more than just a romance designed to give viewers butterflies.
I also liked how the series transitioned between the past and the present. The pacing was fast, yet the story never felt rushed. Instead, these transitions effectively captured the weight of Kierra’s struggles.
Even the love scene between Nicole and Jairus felt cinematic and tastefully done. When you look at the episode as a whole, the scene feels like just one element of a much bigger story. More importantly, the focus remains on what Kierra is going through.
A Story About Pain, Trauma, and Healing
Overall, I didn’t feel any romantic excitement while watching Episode 1. Instead, I appreciated how the series was made and how it presented its story.
Of course, this is only on the first episode. Since this is a love story, I’m sure we will see more romantic moments between the characters in the coming episodes.
Furthermore, I have a feeling that Kierra and Shan might help each other heal from their respective traumas. I’m curious to see how their relationship develops and whether they can find comfort in each other despite their personal struggles.
Nicole Omillo and Jairus Aquino Deliver Strong Performances
When it comes to acting, both Nicole and Jairus did a great job. However, Nicole stood out because Episode 1 focused primarily on her character.
This is the first time I’ve seen Nicole portray such a serious role. I’m more familiar with her cheerful side in Golden Scenery of Tomorrow, so watching her take on a character like Kierra was an interesting change.
Kierra was once a happy person. She grew up with a happy childhood and loving parents. However, something happened that completely changed her.
As you watch her struggle, you can’t help but feel sorry for her.
One of my favorite scenes was when Kierra explained that she felt like she couldn’t breathe whenever she was at home, yet she became anxious whenever she was outside.
That scene was powerful because it conveyed the weight of her struggles in just a few words. It also gave viewers a glimpse into the emotional turmoil she was experiencing.
Final Thoughts
My first impression of Our Yesterday’s Escape is that it offers more than the usual university romance. The first episode impressed me with its storytelling, emotional depth, and acting rather than its romantic moments.
Nicole Omillo delivered a compelling performance as Kierra, while the series established a serious tone that sets it apart from other university dramas.
Although I didn’t feel the romantic excitement just yet, I’m interested in seeing where Kierra and Shan’s story goes. I also want to find out how their individual experiences will shape their relationship in the coming episodes.
For now, Our Yesterday’s Escape has made me curious enough to keep watching. And sometimes, that is exactly what a first episode needs to do.
Jairus Aquino also stars in the comedy-horror film Pee Mak PH. Read my Pee Mak PH movie review for my thoughts on the film.
Want to hear more of my thoughts on Our Yesterday Escape Episode 1? Watch my full review below.