Swiped (2018) – Movie Review
Introduction
“Swiped” is a 2018 comedy film directed by Ann Deborah Fishman. Starring Noah Centineo, Kendall Ryan Sanders, and Kristen Johnston, the movie explores the world of online dating through the eyes of college students who create a revolutionary dating app. With its timely subject matter and youthful cast, “Swiped” aims to offer a humorous take on modern relationships and technology. This review examines the film’s plot, performances, and overall reception, and provides information on where to watch it in the United States.
Plot Summary
“Swiped” follows the story of James Singer (Kendall Ryan Sanders), a tech-savvy but socially awkward college freshman. James is a brilliant coder who teams up with his charismatic roommate, Lance Black (Noah Centineo), to create a new dating app that allows users to effortlessly hook up without the complications of traditional dating.
Lance, a notorious ladies’ man, sees the app as a way to increase his romantic conquests, while James views it as an intriguing coding challenge. As the app gains popularity, it creates unexpected consequences for both creators. James grapples with the ethical implications of his invention and its impact on real relationships, while Lance faces the shallow and empty nature of his numerous hook-ups.
The film navigates the complexities of modern dating, the superficiality of app culture, and the eventual realization that genuine connections are more valuable than fleeting encounters. Along the way, it provides a satirical commentary on how technology influences human relationships.
Performances
Noah Centineo, known for his roles in teen rom-coms, plays Lance Black with charm and charisma, embodying the typical college playboy. Centineo’s performance captures the superficial allure of his character, while also hinting at deeper insecurities and a yearning for genuine connection.
Kendall Ryan Sanders stars as James Singer, delivering a performance that highlights the character’s awkwardness and intelligence. Sanders effectively portrays James’s internal conflict between his technical achievements and moral values, adding depth to the film’s narrative.
Kristen Johnston, as James’s overbearing mother Leah Singer, provides comedic relief and adds a layer of familial pressure to James’s life. Johnston’s performance is both humorous and relatable, contributing to the film’s overall charm.
The supporting cast, including Nathan Gamble as Daniel and Shelby Wulfert as Hannah, complements the main characters, adding variety and additional perspectives on the dating app phenomenon.
Visual Style and Direction
Directed by Ann Deborah Fishman, “Swiped” features a straightforward visual style that focuses on the characters and their interactions. The film’s cinematography, by Jordi Ruiz Masó, utilizes bright and colorful settings typical of college campuses and parties, reflecting the youthful energy of the characters.
The direction prioritizes comedic timing and character-driven scenes, aiming to deliver humor through dialogue and situational comedy. While the visual style is not particularly groundbreaking, it effectively supports the film’s narrative and comedic elements.
Reception and Legacy
“Swiped” received mixed to negative reviews from critics and audiences. While some viewers appreciated its light-hearted take on modern dating and the performances of the young cast, others criticized the film for its predictable plot and lack of depth. The film’s portrayal of college life and dating app culture was seen as both relatable and overly simplified.
Despite its reception, “Swiped” holds some appeal for fans of Noah Centineo and those interested in a comedic exploration of dating apps and technology’s impact on relationships. Its themes resonate with a generation familiar with the ups and downs of online dating.
Streaming and Purchase Options in the U.S.
For those interested in watching “Swiped,” several streaming and purchase options are available in the United States:
- Netflix: Available for streaming.
- Amazon Prime Video: Available for rental or purchase.
- Apple iTunes: Available for rental or purchase.
- Google Play Movies: Available for rental or purchase.
- Vudu: Available for rental or purchase.
- YouTube Movies: Available for rental or purchase.
Conclusion
“Swiped” offers a comedic look at modern dating through the lens of a college startup. Featuring performances from Noah Centineo and Kendall Ryan Sanders, the film navigates the world of online dating apps with humor and a light-hearted approach. While it received mixed reviews for its execution and depth, it remains a relevant exploration of how technology shapes contemporary relationships.
