Isn’t It Romantic (2019) Movie Review: A Whimsical Rom-Com Twist
Isn’t It Romantic, directed by Todd Strauss-Schulson and released in 2019, is a refreshing and comedic take on the romantic comedy genre that playfully subverts the conventions that have defined it for decades. Starring Rebel Wilson, Liam Hemsworth, Adam Devine, and Priyanka Chopra, this film offers a unique blend of humor, self-reflection, and a touch of fantasy. In this review, we will explore the plot, performances, themes, visual style, and the overall reception of this delightful rom-com.
Plot Summary: A Romantic Awakening
The film follows Natalie (Rebel Wilson), a cynical architect who has long dismissed the notion of love and the tropes of romantic comedies. After a series of unfortunate events, including a mugging that leads to her getting knocked unconscious, Natalie wakes up to find herself in a parallel universe where her life resembles the clichés of a rom-com.
In this whimsical world, Natalie is pursued by a charming billionaire, Blake (Liam Hemsworth), and surrounded by supportive friends who embody the characteristics of classic rom-com sidekicks. However, Natalie must navigate the absurdity of her new reality, questioning her beliefs about love and happiness while trying to find her way back to her true self.
Key Performances: A Stellar Cast
Rebel Wilson as Natalie
Rebel Wilson shines as Natalie, delivering a charismatic and relatable performance that perfectly captures her character’s journey from cynicism to self-discovery. Wilson’s comedic timing and physicality add a layer of humor to the film, making her transformation believable and engaging. Her ability to balance humor with vulnerability allows audiences to connect with Natalie’s struggles and growth.
Liam Hemsworth as Blake
Liam Hemsworth brings charm and charisma to his role as Blake, the romantic interest who embodies the typical dashing billionaire trope. Hemsworth’s performance is playful and light-hearted, providing a nice contrast to Wilson’s more grounded portrayal. His chemistry with Wilson adds to the film’s charm, making their romantic moments feel genuine amidst the absurdity.
Adam Devine as Josh
Adam Devine plays Josh, Natalie’s best friend, who harbors unspoken feelings for her. Devine’s comedic talents shine as he navigates the friend zone while supporting Natalie through her romantic misadventures. His likable and goofy persona adds a layer of warmth to the film, enhancing the overall dynamic between the characters.
Priyanka Chopra as Isabella
Priyanka Chopra portrays Isabella, a glamorous and supportive friend who embraces the rom-com tropes with enthusiasm. Chopra’s performance is both delightful and playful, adding a touch of star power to the film. Her character serves as a perfect foil to Natalie, embodying the romantic ideals that Natalie initially rejects.
Themes: Self-Discovery, Love, and the Power of Belief
1. Self-Acceptance and Identity
At its core, Isn’t It Romantic explores themes of self-acceptance and identity. Natalie’s journey challenges her cynical views about love and encourages her to embrace her true self. The film emphasizes the importance of believing in oneself and recognizing the value of personal happiness beyond societal expectations.
2. The Nature of Love
The film playfully critiques traditional romantic comedy tropes, highlighting the unrealistic portrayals of love often seen in these films. By exaggerating these clichés, Isn’t It Romantic invites audiences to reflect on the nature of love and relationships, promoting the idea that true love involves authenticity and mutual respect rather than fairy-tale fantasies.
3. Friendship and Support
Friendship plays a significant role in the film, illustrating the importance of having supportive people in one’s life. Natalie’s relationships with Josh and Isabella showcase the power of friendship in navigating personal challenges and the quest for love. The film highlights that true companions encourage growth and self-discovery.
Visual Style: A Colorful and Playful Aesthetic
The visual style of Isn’t It Romantic is vibrant and whimsical, effectively capturing the essence of a romantic comedy. The colorful cinematography and playful set designs immerse viewers in a fantastical world that mirrors the absurdity of Natalie’s experiences. The film’s aesthetic reflects its light-hearted tone, enhancing the comedic elements and romantic moments.
The use of musical numbers and choreographed sequences adds to the film’s charm, giving it a Broadway-like feel that further emphasizes the rom-com genre’s theatricality. These moments provide comic relief and a sense of fun, making the film a delightful viewing experience.
Strengths and Weaknesses: A Charming Rom-Com
Strengths:
- Humorous and Relatable Performances: Rebel Wilson’s standout performance, along with a talented supporting cast, brings humor and relatability to the film, engaging audiences from start to finish.
- Clever Subversion of Tropes: The film cleverly critiques and subverts traditional rom-com tropes, inviting viewers to rethink their expectations of love and relationships.
- Visual Appeal: The colorful cinematography and playful aesthetic create a charming atmosphere that enhances the film’s light-hearted tone.
Weaknesses:
- Predictable Plot: Some viewers may find the plot predictable, as it follows familiar narrative beats common in romantic comedies. However, the film’s self-awareness helps mitigate this aspect.
- Underdeveloped Side Characters: While the main characters are well-developed, some supporting characters may feel underexplored, leaving audiences wanting more depth in their storylines.
Where to Watch Isn’t It Romantic Online
If you’re interested in watching Isn’t It Romantic, here are some platforms where it is available in the U.S.:
Streaming Services:
- Netflix – The film is available for streaming on Netflix, making it easily accessible for viewers looking for a light-hearted rom-com.
- Amazon Prime Video – Viewers can find Isn’t It Romantic available for rent or purchase on Amazon.
Rental and Purchase Options:
- Apple TV – Available for rent or purchase in various formats.
- Google Play Movies & TV – You can rent or buy the film on Google Play.
- Vudu – Rental and purchase options are available for this charming romantic comedy.
Final Verdict: A Fun and Whimsical Rom-Com
Isn’t It Romantic (2019) is a delightful and clever romantic comedy that successfully blends humor, fantasy, and self-discovery. With standout performances from Rebel Wilson and a talented cast, the film invites audiences to reflect on the nature of love and the importance of being true to oneself.
While it may tread familiar ground in terms of plot, the film’s witty subversion of romantic tropes and its vibrant visual style make it a fun and engaging experience. Whether you’re a fan of romantic comedies or simply looking for a lighthearted film to enjoy, Isn’t It Romantic offers a refreshing twist on the genre, leaving viewers with a smile long after the credits roll.
