"The Romantics"

The Romantics (Image courtesy of Image.net)

(USA, 2010, 95 mins)

"The Romantics" by Galt Niederhoffer takes place over the course of a day and a half, as seven best friends from college reunite several years later for the wedding of Lila and Tom.  The film includes a star studded cast, with future bride and groom played by Anna Paquin (Lila) and Josh Duhamel (Tom).  Katie Holmes plays the role of Laura, the maid of honor, and  other well-known cast members include Adam Brody, Malin Akerman, Elijah Wood, and Dianna Agron (Quinn Fabray of Glee), who plays Paquin's younger sister.  

Despite the star studded cast, the film itself is a disappointment.  The film, which is categorized as a romantic comedy, is filled with drama that is almost too much to handle.  Holmes' character had previously dated the groom for four years  and has a history of "friendly competition" with the bride, which sets up the tension that lingers throughout the course of the film.  Duhamel's character has the case of pre-wedding day jitters which is sparked by his true feelings for Laura.  After the rehearsal dinner, the drunken friends minus the bride, all go swimming and then discover that the groom has gone missing.  The friends split up and spend the entire night looking for the missing groom. 

Ultimately "The Romantics" ends up being a mess in which everyone has their own struggles and no one knows what to do with their lives.  The love triangle is never quite resolved and the ending leaves us unsure of their futures.  With such potential from all the young talent going to waste, it's quite shame that the film is so mediocre.

The best part about the film was the wardrobe.  As a fashion aficionado, I was pleased with all the stylish outfits that had very much a J.Crew vibe with an "indie" touch.  The fashion in the movie almost made the film worth while along with the overall aesthetic of the film. 

For the most part, I wouldn't recommend paying to watch "The Romantics" in theatres, but I wouldn't discourage renting the film once it's released on DVD.  Something about the film is intriguing enough for those that may still be interested.  And I have to admit that the film has its funny moments.

Verdict: When it comes down to it, "The Romantics" is not a must-see film.

Rating: 3/5  

To see the trailer, click here.

To reach reporter Misha Yim, click here.

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