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REVIEW
Feb. 14, 2023
Somebody I Used to Know
If you're looking for a light-hearted and refreshing romcom to watch, 'Somebody I Used To Know' will definitely pique your interest. Its main cast Alison Brie and Jay Ellis are real life husband and wife.
Story: Following some professional difficulties, Ally (Alison Brie) returns to her hometown, where she accidentally runs into her former lover-cum-friend, Sean (Jay Ellis). They still have some sort of connection, as evidenced by their time spent exploring places they used to visit in the past, which makes Ally question her life choices. Will a smouldering ember be rekindled?
Review: 'Somebody I Used to Know' is Alison Brie's latest collaboration with her real-life husband Dave Franco. They co-wrote the script, and Franco serves as director. This rom-com appears like a toned-down remake of the classic Julia Roberts's 'My Best Friend's Wedding,' with the exception that this 107-minute drama has a little more sadness. It does, however, have enough wit and charm to keep things light and breezy. The upside of the film is its sharp writing which emphasises individual choices rather than putting things together for the couples to make up for.
The plot revolves around Ally, a workaholic TV producer who visits her hometown after her show goes off air. There, by chance, she ran into Sean, her former and first love, whom she had left behind when she left her hometown for a career. Because the two still have a spark, Ally begins to question everything she has done in the past, as well as whether her current priorities are in order.
But, things get even more complicated and confusing for Ally, when she learns that Sean is marrying Cassidy (Kiersey Clemons), whose confidence and conviction to pursue what she enjoys—her music band and travelling the world—reminds her of whom she used to be in her twenties. Will Ally now become a desperate girl trying to ruin a wedding in order to get Sean back? And if she does, how far will she go?
This comedy-centric flick lacks the substance to stand out or win the award for the most innovative rom-com. Though there are some nice touches in the film, such as Ally and Cassi's bonding together and self-discovery of what they want out of life. Above all, the odd situations in which Ally frequently finds herself will keep you invested in her journey. The overall narrative, however, is just above average: a predictable first half, a surprisingly different middle and a conclusion that is slightly better than how it all started.
In terms of performances, 'Somebody I Used To Know' is also a character-driven movie that relies heavily on Alison Brie and Jay Ellis to take it to its shore. They add much-needed zing to this rom-com while maintaining realism and relatability. Kiersey Clemons is mostly second wheeling though.
To sum it up, if you're looking for a light-hearted and refreshing romcom to watch this Valentine's week, 'Somebody I Used To Know' will definitely pique your interest.
From Entertainment Times.
