(spoiler free)
As much as us film fans love a great romantic-comedy we also love complaining about how cliched and predictable the genre has become too. The same can be said for Natalie, portrayed here by Rebel Wilson, as she rants about the countless shortcomings of the rom-com to a work colleague. ‘Isn’t It Romantic’ goes on to spoof this much cherished genre as Natalie experiences a bump to the head seemingly knocking her whole world out of sync!
The concept for this narrative is a fun one, and the execution of it fully taps into its potential for comedy. The end result is a playful parody of all things rom-com. The film is very creative with the way in which it pokes fun at the ever expanding amount of tropes this genre has employed over the years. This satirical comedy will easily strike a chord with audiences as they relate it to their previous viewing experiences. Whilst clearly taking the piss of the genre the film doesn’t do so in a spiteful way as it also pays tribute and references several of the films that it mocks. What’s even more impressive though is that the film is self-aware enough to realise that to a certain degree it also falls victim to these tired cliches that it so profusely makes fun of. However, in being able to laugh at itself too ‘Isn’t It Romantic’ gets away with using the very structure that it’s spoofing.
Rebel Wilson is a fantastic choice to front this film, her energy and screen presence carries this concept effortlessly. Wilson has slightly tailored her more brash persona here which should appease those previously irritated by her performances but not so much as to take away from her comedic brilliance and acting ability. Liam Hemsworth is the other big named cast member involved, playing love interest, millionaire businessman Blake. Hemsworth is a blast to watch here portraying an eye roll inducing stereotype from the genre with a strong flare for humour. The unlikely duo have a fun chemistry and bring about a lot of laughs. This is a similar story with pretty much every supporting character, somewhat a rarity for modern rom-coms. The characterisation and subsequent performances here take full advantage of the films concept with hysterical stereotypes coming at audiences thick and fast.
Speaking of fast, the ninety minute runtime goes by in what feels like an instant, never experiencing that second act lull that many rom-coms are guilty of. Whether you’re a fan of the classics or the more modern entries into the genre ‘Isn’t It Romantic’ will have you entertained to no end with its clever, humourous and joyous satire of one of the most over-saturated genres in cinema – no rom-com is safe!
Written by Hamish Calvert
Rating – 8/10
Question: What is your favourite Rebel Wilson film?
(Leave your answers in the comments section below!)
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