The Story:
Kumail Nanjiani and Issa Rae play the roles of the couple Jibran and Leilani in this romcom flick with a murder mystery spin, The Lovebirds. Four years into their relationship, Jibran and Leilani’s constant disagreements finally made them decide to break up. But even before they could split ways, they find themselves caught up in a more pressing trouble.
A man who introduced himself as a cop, took over their car and ran over a fleeing biker. Afraid of being tagged as murderers after the cyclist dies, the couple goes into hiding. With only the victim’s phone in their possession, Jibran and Leilani decide to solve the crime themselves. But since they can’t even agree on the smallest things, they both know that such feat won’t be easy for the two of them.
The film is directed Michael Showalter and was originally set for a theatrical release after a premiere at the South by Southwest Conference & Festival. But since the pandemic left theaters in a limbo, the movie has now landed on Netflix.
Watch this if you:
Are looking for a good romcom film that is easy to enjoy. As it navigates a mystery-strewn storyline, the film goes heavier on the humor than the romance, thus, pulling strength from its entertainment factor. Also watch this if you are a fan of Kumail Nanjiani or Issa Rae, or the both of them. Their surprising on-screen chemistry in this film is really worth seeing.
What I think:
The Lovebirds took flight with a lot of potential. Kumail Nanjiani and Issa Rae showed great chemistry together, from the romantic opening sequence to the comedic chaos that ensued in the film. Seeing them flirt and squabble as the couple Jibran and Leilani felt authentic and entertaining all throughout the movie’s runtime.
However, despite the effective dynamic between the two lead stars, I felt like the film’s premise fell flat in full view. It built upon a mystery that didn’t amount to much, even after using the ‘shady cult conspiracy’ card. Then it all goes away with a swift unraveling in the final act. In combining the humor and mystery, it felt as if the latter became an excuse for the former to cut loose from the conventional; but not without repercussions. While its comic aspect thrived, the story it follows hung at mid-air with no defining quirks that viewers can look up to.
All things considered, The Lovebirds is a fun ride that is better consumed without overthinking the details. By doing so, it can provide for an hour-and-a-half of our much needed comic relief during these trying times. So tap it on the app, sit back, relax, and enjoy.
Watch it here.
My Rating: