Finding Emily the latest rom-com to hit the screens, stars Angourie Rice and Spike Fearn in a tale of love, obsession, and the complexities of modern relationships. Set in the vibrant city of Manchester, the film follows Owen, a struggling musician, and Emily, a psychology student with a skeptical view of love. Directed by Alicia MacDonald and written by Rachel Hirons the movie aims to explore the nuances of romance in the digital age.
The film opens with a classic meet-cute at a party where Owen strikes a connection with a mysterious woman dressed as a fairy. However, the magic fades when Owen realizes the number she left him is incomplete. Undeterred, Owen embarks on a quest to find his mystery woman, leading him to Emily Raine, played by Rice. Emily, working on a thesis that love is a form of psychosis, sees Owen as the perfect case study for her research.
The Characters and Their Quirks
Spike Fearn as Owen brings a sense of earnestness and vulnerability to the role. His character is a romantic at heart, reminiscent of Ted Mosby from How I Met Your Mother, but with a modern twist. Owen’s relentless pursuit of Emily, despite the ethical dilemmas it presents, is both endearing and unsettling. Fearn’s performance makes Owen feel authentic, even as the circumstances surrounding him grow increasingly contrived.
Angourie Rice delivers a compelling performance as Emily Raine. Her character is a complex mix of skepticism and curiosity, making her both relatable and frustrating. Rice’s portrayal of Emily’s manipulation of Owen for her thesis is a highlight of the film. Despite her devious actions, Rice infuses Emily with enough brightness to make her hard to completely hate.
The Ethical Dilemmas
The film delves into ethical questions about consent, boundaries, and male entitlement. Owen’s actions, while driven by genuine sentiment, cross lines that raise valid concerns. Emily’s manipulation of Owen for her thesis adds another layer of complexity. The film attempts to address these issues but ultimately falls short by dismissing them as hysterical. This approach undermines the very conversations it aims to start.
The fallout for Owen is depicted with a modern flavor, complete with social media buzzwords and viral trends. However, the film’s take on these issues remains stubbornly old-fashioned. The dean, played by Minnie Driver dismisses feminist activists’ concerns, reinforcing the film’s one-sided perspective. This approach alienates viewers who might otherwise root for the characters.
The Performances and Chemistry
Despite the film’s shortcomings, the performances by Rice and Fearn are noteworthy. Their chemistry is palpable, making their interactions feel natural and authentic. The two share a shaggy, laid-back ease that suggests a deep friendship rather than a romantic connection. This dynamic adds a layer of complexity to their relationship, making it more intriguing than the typical rom-com trope.
The supporting cast, including Prasanna Puwanarajah as Professor Westlake and Timothy Innes as Owen’s ex, add depth to the film. Puwanarajah’s portrayal of the grumpy professor is particularly amusing, providing some of the film’s best moments. However, the tertiary characters often feel like caricatures, detracting from the
Finding Emily is a film that aims high but ultimately misses the mark. While the performances by Rice and Fearn are commendable, the film’s self-awareness and ethical dilemmas are not fully realized. The result is a rom-com that feels more cynical than charming, leaving viewers wanting more. Despite its flaws, the film offers moments of sweetness and genuine emotion, making it a worthwhile watch for fans of the genre.
