They Came Together (2014) Movie Review: A Hilarious Parody of Romantic Comedies
Introduction
“They Came Together,” directed by David Wain and starring Paul Rudd and Amy Poehler, is a 2014 romantic comedy that serves as a clever and hilarious parody of the genre. The film, written by Wain and Michael Showalter, takes aim at the clichés and tropes commonly found in romantic comedies, offering a fresh and entertaining take on the formula. With its talented cast and witty script, “They Came Together” delivers laughs and charm in equal measure.
Plot Summary
The film follows the story of Joel (Paul Rudd) and Molly (Amy Poehler), who recount their quirky and unconventional romance to friends over dinner. Joel, a corporate executive at a candy company, and Molly, the owner of a small, independent candy store, initially meet under less-than-ideal circumstances. Joel’s company is trying to put Molly’s store out of business, setting up a classic enemies-to-lovers scenario.
As their story unfolds, the film playfully exaggerates and deconstructs various rom-com staples, including meet-cutes, misunderstandings, and grand romantic gestures. From their serendipitous first meeting to their inevitable breakup and reconciliation, Joel and Molly’s relationship is a whirlwind of comedic events and over-the-top situations that lampoon the conventions of romantic comedies.
Performance and Direction
Paul Rudd and Amy Poehler are perfectly cast as the leads, bringing their comedic prowess and impeccable timing to the roles of Joel and Molly. Their chemistry is undeniable, and they fully commit to the film’s satirical tone, making even the most absurd moments feel genuine and engaging. The supporting cast, including Bill Hader, Ellie Kemper, Cobie Smulders, and Max Greenfield, add to the film’s humor with their own standout performances.
Director David Wain, known for his work on “Wet Hot American Summer” and “Role Models,” effectively balances satire with affection for the genre. The film’s screenplay, co-written by Wain and Michael Showalter, is filled with sharp dialogue, clever jokes, and numerous references to classic romantic comedies. The direction and writing ensure that the film is not just a spoof but also a loving homage to the genre.
Critical Reception
“They Came Together” received generally positive reviews from critics. On Rotten Tomatoes, the film holds a rating of 69%, indicating favorable responses. Critics praised the film’s sharp wit, the performances of Rudd and Poehler, and its successful parody of romantic comedy tropes. Some noted that the film’s humor might be too niche for viewers unfamiliar with the genre it lampoons, but overall, it was appreciated for its clever and entertaining approach.
Streaming Availability
As of now, “They Came Together” is available for streaming on several platforms in the United States:
- Amazon Prime Video – Available for rent or purchase.
- Apple TV – Available for rent or purchase.
- Google Play Movies & TV – Available for rent or purchase.
- Vudu – Available for rent or purchase.
- YouTube Movies – Available for rent or purchase.
- Netflix – Available for subscribers.
These streaming services offer convenient options for viewers to watch “They Came Together” from the comfort of their homes.
Conclusion
“They Came Together” is a hilarious and smart parody that lovingly skewers the conventions of romantic comedies. With stellar performances from Paul Rudd and Amy Poehler and sharp direction from David Wain, the film provides a refreshing take on the genre. Whether you’re a fan of romantic comedies or simply enjoy a good comedy, “They Came Together” is sure to entertain and amuse. For those looking for a lighthearted and clever film, it is readily available on multiple streaming platforms.
