Lovebirds
I realize that this movie is basically Date Night (2010) in many, many ways, however, the jokes are distinct enough to leave me satisfied and give the movie its own legs to stand on. Kumail Nanjiani and Issa Rae arguing with each other as a veteran couple is something I could listen to for hours. ’The odd couple’s dynamic and banter gets them out of dire situations throughout the movie, injecting heart-felt comedy in an otherwise bleak situation. I also enjoyed how many of characters in the film were just as ridiculous than our protagonist couple.
I have been seeing Kumail Nanjiani’s picture a lot lately. Yes, partly because I am interested in seeing how he obtained that bodacious bod, but also because he’s a genuinely talented guy who deserves the spotlight he has been getting. He’s a hilarious comedian and it’s admiring to see his comedy developing topped off with the occasional dramatic performances. I could not stop laughing at him screaming “JUSTICE!” as he and his co-star mistakenly aid a murderer during his bloodlust.
I also feel like this movie would be completely different if it weren’t for the style and kind face of Issa Rae. I have admittedly never seen her in anything before this movie, but if this flick is any indication of her comedic abilities, I’m a fan. She hits the comedic beats perfectly and plays off Kumail with such spunk. You kind of fall in love with her in a way. She’s a hoot to watch.
The two actors carried this movie with their chemistry. Although I did enjoy the movie a lot, there was plenty of moments where I thought the characters acted completely ridiculous and unconvincingly dumb. I mean, he’s a talented documentary director from what we’ve heard, but he didn’t have the foresight to answer his phone at least once to see what the police wanted. Also, if he had just stayed put instead of bolting unreasonably away from the crime scene, this movie could’ve been concluded much earlier. Sorry, I’m nitpicky like that, but it still didn’t stop me from thoroughly enjoying the movie.
7/10
Best,
Frank
