Category: Rom-Com

“Anyone But You”

8.6

There’s a thin line between love and hate…

In the running for Best rom-com of the year for me… This was WAY better than I expected it to be. And not just because of Sydney Sweeney. Or because it’s cuffing season and I’m a hopeless romantic.

The chemistry within the perfectly assembled cast is off the charts, and really takes an already great story to the next level. There’s an authenticity in this one that is missing from so many romantic comedies that cause them to fall flat. Even the steamier scenes have a surprising silliness and playfulness that permeates the rest of the film. No matter how cheesy the scene, the cast is bought in 110%, and that comes across on the big screen. Not me getting misty-eyed from laughter and “jeez, movie… I didn’t need to be attacked like that” moments. And the credits montage… Chef’s kiss*

Now if you’ll excuse me, I’ll be doing sit-ups until my next movie review in an attempt to match Glen Powell’s 8 pack. Looking to also get “hot girl fit.”

“How Do You Know?”

7.3

In one word – adorable. A bit on the nose, but adorable.

A situation that hits a little close to home for a lot of us out here on the battlefield of love. “Not from my perspective.” is a comeback for the ages! Owen Wilson playing the heel is a fun twist in this one. I enjoyed watching him play against his usual, while Paul Rudd does Paul Rudd things and brings a strong adorable puppy dog love to the equation. Jack Nicholson really seemed sparse, but plays a great bad guy and sells the finale of the film. A traditional, by the numbers rom-com that won’t let you down.

“What Happens Later”

7.6

Don’t let this inspire you to reach out to your ex. I had to hold strong, so… so do you! (Even if I get to hang out with the old friend I bicker with like an old married couple for the next couple of months)

The charm radiating from these two is infectious, and the story incredibly relatable. The premise of the film is so simple, yet so effective. I initially worried that it would be a bit dry, but I’ll admit I got a little misty-eyed by the time the credits rolled, even with the multiple fake out endings threatening to make me yell at the screen. It’s an “awe…” inducing rom-com that really packs a punch, and I thoroughly enjoyed the emotional roller coaster!

“My Big Fat Greek Wedding 3”

7.4

One thing I can say about this trilogy is that they never fail on the feel good front. It was the perfect way to round out a triple feature at the cinema today after two heavier films.

The Portokalos’s never fail to restore one’s faith in love and family. This film may have changed locale, but the heart of the story is as strong as ever, building off of the strengths of the first two films. Of course there is a forbidden romance, a wedding, and a relationship blossoming in time to launch the possibility of a fourth installment. I wouldn’t be upset with that, and will be one of the first in line if and when they do.

“No Hard Feelings”

8.1

This was definitely one of those “I can’t believe they made this” movies. I will also say that I don’t think it works with anyone else as the leads. It’s perfectly cast.

The story, the music, the surprisingly touching love story… all culminated to leave me flabbergasted by the time the credits rolled. I honestly did not see this movie being this good. Funny? Sure. But actually substantive? No way. But, here we are…

Definitely not a kid’s movie and probably not a great first date movie, but the couple I met in my showing thoroughly enjoyed it as a date night. Romantically raunchy… that’s what we’ll call it. And the piano accompaniment serenade of “Maneater” is *chef’s kiss*