Someone Great

2019 6.4 1h 32m
Someone Great

Movie Overview & Analysis

Someone Great tries to capture the essence of heartbreak and friendship but often stumbles along the way. While the premise feels relatable, the execution leaves much to be desired.

Film Director: Jennifer Kaytin Robinson
Duration: 92 min
Genre: Comedy, Romance
Year: 2019

An Enjoyable Flick, Not Profound

Someone Great is an entertaining but flawed film that offers a few laughs and relatable moments. While it captures the spirit of friendship against the backdrop of heartbreak, it fails to fully explore the emotional depths it hints at. Not a bad way to spend an hour and a half, but don’t expect to be profoundly moved.

6.4/10

Film DNA

The scores reflect a film that is visually appealing and entertaining but lacks depth and emotional resonance. It's a decent light watch but not one that will stay with you.

Pros

  • Strong performances from the leads
  • Vibrant visuals capturing New York

Cons

  • Weak character development for supporting roles
  • Uneven pacing and tonal shifts

Who Will Enjoy This Film

This film is primarily aimed at a younger audience, particularly those interested in romantic comedies and stories about friendship. Fans of Gina Rodriguez will likely enjoy her performance, as well as the film's blend of humor and heart. However, those seeking depth or realism in their narratives may find this film lacking. Older viewers or those who prefer more dramatic storytelling might find themselves rolling their eyes at the film's lighter, more superficial moments. Overall, it's a casual watch best suited for a lazy afternoon rather than a cinematic masterpiece.

Adventures in Heartbreak

The film revolves around Jenny (Gina Rodriguez), a music journalist poised to take on her dream job in San Francisco. Just as she gears up for this new chapter, her long-term boyfriend abruptly ends their nine-year relationship. Devastated, Jenny enlists her two best friends, Blair (Brittany Snow) and Erin (DeWanda Wise), for one last adventurous day in New York City to help her heal. Amidst spontaneous escapades, emotional confrontations, and comedic interludes, the trio navigates the ups and downs of love, friendship, and self-discovery in a city that feels as vibrant as they are.

Strengths and Weaknesses

Gina Rodriguez carries the film with a solid performance as Jenny, effectively conveying the struggles of a woman grappling with heartbreak. Brittany Snow and DeWanda Wise offer commendable support as her friends, with Wise particularly shining in her comedic moments. However, the characters of Nate (LaKeith Stanfield) and Matt (Peter Vack) feel underdeveloped, leaving their arcs lacking depth. The film tries to highlight the importance of friendship, but some character interactions feel forced, diluting their emotional weight. Overall, while the chemistry among the leads is apparent, not every character gets the attention they deserve.

Visuals with a New York Pulse

Jennifer Kaytin Robinson's direction embraces the dynamic cityscape of New York while trying to blend heart with humor. The visuals are colorful and energetic, reflecting the film’s overall vibe. However, the pacing is uneven; some scenes drag on longer than necessary, while others feel rushed, leading to tonal inconsistencies. The cinematography captures the essence of the city well, but occasional overuse of quick cuts and flashy transitions detracts from the emotional moments. The film's reliance on vibrant aesthetics does not always translate into substantive storytelling, leaving it feeling somewhat superficial.

A Mixed Emotional Palette

Watching Someone Great is a mixed bag of emotions. There are moments that genuinely resonate, particularly those that reflect the pain of a breakup and the strength of friendship. However, the film's attempts at humor can feel jarring, interrupting more serious moments and leading to a disjointed viewing experience. At times, the emotional beats seem overshadowed by the comedic elements, resulting in moments of frustration where the viewer might yearn for a deeper exploration of its themes. The film can feel like a light-hearted distraction, but it occasionally falls short of delivering a satisfying emotional arc.

Watch if you liked: Crazy, Stupid, Love, The Break-Up