The Idea of You: Anne Hathaway Resurrects the Rom-Com

Is it possible? A romantic comedy that is not outdated and is truly enjoyable? Do not be fooled by appearances – The Idea of You has accomplished the seemingly impossible.

Despite the genre’s steady decline since the mid-2000s, there have been some attempts to revive the rom-com, such as Prime Video’s Red, White, & Royal Blue last year. However, these attempts have either been seen as outdated or too cheesy. Nonetheless, The Idea of You has emerged as a shining hope for the genre.

The film, adapted from Robinne Lee’s novel of the same title, centers around Solène, a newly single mother who takes her daughter to Coachella when her ex-husband backs out at the last minute. Armed with meet and greet passes for her daughter’s former favorite boyband, Solène unexpectedly meets Hayes (Nicholas Galitzine), the lead singer, and they form a connection despite the odds.

Despite the many plot points that could have led The Idea of You to be a cheesy disaster, the movie surprisingly offers both entertainment and thought-provoking moments. By tackling taboo topics such as age-gap relationships, single motherhood, and broken families, Anne Hathaway successfully portrays a realistic message that women over a certain age can indeed find happiness.

The Rom-Com on the Right Side of Trashy

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=V8i6PB0gGOA

Hayes’ serious delivery of “We met in Coachella”in The Idea of You trailer is undeniably one of the funniest moments of the year. The line perfectly sets the tone for the film, which strikes a delicate balance between self-awareness and lightheartedness. On the surface, the plot may seem absurd – a woman meets a heartthrob from a boyband, her children remain oblivious, and she embarks on a summer-long European adventure before her bikini body is exposed to the world. However, the movie manages to pull it off with its witty and clever execution.

Despite being an unlikely pairing, Hathaway and Galitzine’s chemistry is so strong that even watching them read a phone book together would be captivating. The plot could have easily succumbed to common pitfalls, especially considering the way previous movies have portrayed “older women pursuing what they desire”. However, The Idea of You remains sharp and clever, utilizing traditional elements to drive meaningful discussions as Solène and Hayes navigate their seemingly doomed romance.

To add to the excitement, Hayes’ made-up boyband August Moon is filled with hit songs. If One Direction were to unexpectedly reunite for a tour in North America, the throngs of devoted August Moon supporters would likely bear a striking resemblance. Solène and Hayes’ romance is appropriately accompanied by music at every stage of their development, using songs from different eras to demonstrate that an age difference can be nurtured under the right conditions, rather than being a one-dimensional obstacle.

Actress Anne Hathaway leads the charge for forty-somethings

Anne Hathaway deserves the most praise in The Idea of You for single-handedly reviving the rom-com genre. While the film focuses on a couple in love, it is our leading lady who captivates our attention. By breaking the stereotype that women in their 40s can’t have fun, Solène’s real-life struggles bring depth to the lighthearted comedy. Not only does she allow herself to grow, but she also brings out the best in Hayes.

According to Solène’s friend, it’s a well-known fact that people don’t like to see women happy. This is further proven in The Idea of You, where the main character faces immense suffering in pursuit of happiness. In many romantic comedies, the female protagonist sacrifices everything to win the love of a charming man, even if he ultimately chooses someone else. However, Solène refuses to compromise her own personal and familial priorities for the sake of a relationship, always putting herself and her loved ones first.

For those who grew up during a certain era, Hathway’s performance will evoke nostalgia for the beloved films The Princess Diaries and The Devil Wears Prada. In a recent interview with the press, she revealed that she accepted the role because it promised to be a light-hearted and enjoyable experience. This demonstrates that The Idea of You serves as evidence that there is still a place for feel-good entertainment as long as it is accompanied by strong storytelling.

Review of The Idea of You – Score: 4/5

While it may not have been groundbreaking, The Idea of You has undoubtedly shifted the rom-com landscape for the better. It’s a film that evokes thoughts, love, laughter, and tears, but above all, it’s a highly enjoyable experience.

Discover an abundance of incredible movies, TV shows, and true crime documentaries to stream this month. And if that’s not sufficient, stay updated on the upcoming K-drama releases for the year.