When We First Met (2018) Movie Review: Where to Watch Online
When We First Met (2018), directed by Ari Sandel, is a romantic comedy that explores the concept of time travel and second chances in love. Starring Adam Devine, Alexandra Daddario, and Shelley Hennig, the film offers a humorous and heartwarming take on the classic “what if” scenario. With its charming cast and inventive plot, When We First Met provides an entertaining escape into a story about love, regret, and the possibility of rewriting the past.
In this review, we’ll examine the film’s plot, performances, and thematic elements. We’ll also provide information on where you can stream or rent When We First Met online in the U.S.
Plot Summary
When We First Met follows Noah Ashby (Adam Devine), a hopeless romantic who finds himself stuck in the friend zone with the woman he loves, Avery Martin (Alexandra Daddario). After a memorable first date that Noah believes could have been the start of something special, he is devastated when Avery starts dating someone else.
Noah’s life takes a turn when he discovers a time-travel photo booth that allows him to revisit and alter past events. Determined to win Avery’s heart, Noah uses the time-traveling device to repeatedly relive the night of their first meeting, attempting to change the course of their relationship. However, his well-intentioned efforts lead to unexpected consequences and comedic mishaps.
As Noah tries to fix his mistakes and navigate the complexities of love, he learns valuable lessons about himself, his relationships, and the true nature of romance.
Key Characters and Performances
- Adam Devine as Noah Ashby
Adam Devine stars as Noah Ashby, delivering a comedic and relatable performance as a man who is willing to go to great lengths for love. Devine’s energetic and humorous portrayal adds charm and humor to the film. - Alexandra Daddario as Avery Martin
Alexandra Daddario plays Avery Martin, the object of Noah’s affections. Daddario’s performance brings warmth and depth to Avery’s character, providing a balance to the film’s comedic elements with her portrayal of a woman who is both charming and complex. - Shelley Hennig as Carrie
Shelley Hennig portrays Carrie, Noah’s friend and confidante who provides support and perspective throughout his time-traveling adventures. Hennig’s performance adds an additional layer of humor and insight to the film. - Robbie Amell as Ethan
Robbie Amell plays Ethan, Avery’s boyfriend, who becomes an obstacle in Noah’s attempts to win Avery back. Amell’s role adds to the film’s comedic tension and provides a foil to Noah’s character.
What to Expect from When We First Met
Strengths
- Humor and Charm: The film’s comedic approach and charming cast make it an entertaining and enjoyable experience. Adam Devine’s comedic timing and the film’s lighthearted tone contribute to its appeal.
- Creative Concept: The time-traveling photo booth provides a unique and inventive twist on the romantic comedy genre. The film’s exploration of alternate realities and the consequences of changing the past adds an engaging element to the story.
- Romantic and Heartfelt Moments: Despite its comedic nature, the film includes genuine and heartfelt moments that explore themes of love, regret, and personal growth. The emotional depth adds a layer of sincerity to the story.
- Strong Performances: The cast delivers strong performances that enhance the film’s humor and emotional impact. Adam Devine and Alexandra Daddario, in particular, bring charisma and chemistry to their roles.
Weaknesses
- Predictable Plot: The film’s narrative follows a familiar romantic comedy formula, and some viewers may find the plot predictable. The concept of time travel is used to explore conventional themes of love and second chances.
- Surface-Level Exploration: While the film offers a creative premise, it may not delve deeply into the complexities of its characters or themes. The focus on comedy and time-travel antics can overshadow more nuanced character development.
- Pacing Issues: Some viewers may find the film’s pacing uneven, with certain scenes feeling drawn-out or repetitive. The film’s structure may affect its overall flow and engagement.
Direction and Cinematography
Ari Sandel’s direction brings a lively and humorous tone to the film, effectively balancing comedic moments with romantic and heartfelt scenes. His approach ensures that the film remains engaging and entertaining throughout.
The cinematography, by Brett Pawlak, complements the film’s lighthearted and whimsical atmosphere. The visual style enhances the film’s comedic elements and supports the time-traveling concept with creative and playful imagery.
Where to Watch When We First Met Online in the U.S.
Streaming Services
When We First Met is available for streaming on several platforms:
- Netflix
- The film is available to stream on Netflix. As of the latest update, it is included with a Netflix subscription.
- Amazon Prime Video
- The film can be rented or purchased on Amazon Prime Video. Renting typically costs around $3.99, while purchasing ranges from $9.99 to $12.99.
- Apple iTunes
- You can rent or purchase When We First Met on Apple iTunes, with rentals priced around $3.99 and purchase options starting at $9.99.
- Google Play Movies
- The film is available for rent or purchase on Google Play Movies, with similar pricing: rentals at $3.99 and purchases ranging from $9.99 to $12.99.
- Vudu
- When We First Met can be rented or purchased on Vudu, with rentals typically costing around $2.99 to $4.99 and purchases ranging from $9.99 to $12.99.
Rental and Purchase Options
For additional rental and purchase options, you can also check:
- YouTube Movies
- Microsoft Store
Rental prices generally range from $2.99 to $4.99, with purchase options typically falling between $9.99 and $12.99.
Physical Media
When We First Met is available on DVD and Blu-ray, which can be purchased through major retailers such as Amazon and Walmart. Physical copies may include special features like deleted scenes and behind-the-scenes content.
Conclusion
When We First Met (2018) is a delightful romantic comedy that combines humor, charm, and a creative twist on time travel. With strong performances from Adam Devine and Alexandra Daddario, and an engaging plot that explores the possibility of changing the past, the film offers an entertaining and heartwarming experience. Available for streaming on Netflix and for digital rental and purchase, When We First Met is a fun choice for those looking for a lighthearted and romantic escape.
