A Nice Girl Like You (2020) Movie Review: A Lighthearted but Predictable Rom-Com
Overview
Directed by Chris and Nick Riedell, “A Nice Girl Like You” (2020) is a romantic comedy starring Lucy Hale, Leonidas Gulaptis, and Mindy Cohn. The film is based on the memoir “Pornology” by Ayn Carrillo Gailey and follows a prudish violinist who embarks on a journey of sexual self-discovery after a breakup. Despite its engaging premise and charming lead performance, the film struggles with a predictable plot and lackluster humor.
Plot Summary
Lucy Neal (Lucy Hale) is a tightly wound, conservative violinist who is dumped by her boyfriend Jeff (Stephen Friedrich) for being too inhibited in the bedroom. Devastated by the breakup, Lucy stumbles upon a checklist of bold, sexual activities designed to push her boundaries and broaden her experiences. Determined to prove she can be adventurous, Lucy decides to complete the list.
With the help of her quirky friends Priscilla (Mindy Cohn), Nessa (Jackie Cruz), and Paul (Adhir Kalyan), Lucy dives into a series of misadventures that include visiting sex shops, attending pole dancing classes, and exploring the world of adult entertainment. Along the way, she meets Grant (Leonidas Gulaptis), a charming and supportive man who helps her navigate her journey of self-discovery.
As Lucy grows more comfortable with her sexuality, she also learns important lessons about confidence, self-acceptance, and what it means to truly know oneself. The film culminates in a romantic and feel-good ending that ties up Lucy’s journey neatly.
Performance and Direction
Lucy Hale delivers a delightful performance as Lucy Neal, bringing a sense of innocence and relatability to the character. Hale’s comedic timing and expressive acting make her a compelling lead, even when the script falls short. Her portrayal of Lucy’s transformation from a repressed, insecure woman to a more confident and open individual is both charming and believable.
Leonidas Gulaptis provides solid support as Grant, adding warmth and sincerity to his role as Lucy’s love interest. The chemistry between Hale and Gulaptis is natural and engaging, driving the romantic subplot effectively.
Mindy Cohn, Jackie Cruz, and Adhir Kalyan offer enjoyable performances as Lucy’s supportive and humorous friends, though their characters often rely on clichéd tropes. Their interactions with Lucy provide some of the film’s more entertaining moments.
Chris and Nick Riedell’s direction is competent but lacks the innovative touch needed to elevate the film beyond a standard romantic comedy. The pacing is brisk, and the film maintains a lighthearted tone throughout, but it often feels formulaic and predictable. The directors manage to create a fun and breezy atmosphere, yet they miss opportunities to delve deeper into the film’s themes of sexual exploration and self-acceptance.
Visuals and Cinematography
The cinematography by Nico van den Berg is bright and polished, effectively capturing the film’s upbeat and playful tone. The use of colorful and vibrant settings enhances the film’s lighthearted feel, making it visually appealing.
The film’s visual style is straightforward and functional, focusing on the characters and their interactions rather than trying to impress with innovative techniques or elaborate set pieces. This approach keeps the film grounded but also contributes to its predictability.
Themes and Relevance
“A Nice Girl Like You” explores themes of self-discovery, sexual liberation, and personal growth. The film emphasizes the importance of stepping out of one’s comfort zone and challenging societal norms to find true happiness and self-acceptance. Lucy’s journey serves as a reminder that self-discovery is a personal and ongoing process, and that it’s never too late to redefine oneself.
The narrative also touches on the significance of supportive friendships and the role they play in helping individuals navigate life’s challenges. While the film’s exploration of these themes is light and comedic, it provides a positive message about empowerment and confidence.
Streaming and Availability
For viewers in the United States, “A Nice Girl Like You” is available for streaming on various platforms. You can watch it on Amazon Prime Video, Hulu, and other streaming services. The film is also available for rent or purchase on digital platforms such as Apple iTunes, Google Play Movies, Vudu, and YouTube Movies.
Conclusion
“A Nice Girl Like You” is a lighthearted and charming romantic comedy that benefits from Lucy Hale’s engaging performance and a playful premise. However, the film’s predictable plot and reliance on clichéd humor prevent it from standing out in a crowded genre.
Fans of romantic comedies and those looking for a feel-good, breezy film will likely enjoy “A Nice Girl Like You.” While it may not offer any groundbreaking insights or innovative storytelling, it provides a fun and entertaining escape. Its positive message about self-discovery and confidence makes it a worthwhile watch for those in need of a light and uplifting movie experience.
