Viewers looking for a fun, easy-going film are likely to be wary of selecting a small-budget independent film. Will it be too "arty?" Too obscure? Just plain lousy? At a screening I recently attended, Paul Lazarus, the director of Seven Girlfriends, noted that this film was consciously produced to be a commercial movie: accessible and enjoyable. On both counts, it succeeds admirably.
Tim Daly is charming as Jesse, the protagonist who is so frustrated with unsuccessful relationships that he decides to seek out, one by one, each his ex-girlfriends and figure out what went wrong. Laura Leighton is a pleasure, too, as the most meaningful of Jesse's loves, despite spending the majority of her screen time in flashbacks. Melora Hardin has a somewhat smaller role, but she shines while onscreen, making each of her scenes count. And yes, that's really her singing. All in all, despite a lack of marquee names, nary a weak performance is to be found.
The film is by no means a masterpiece, nor it does it ever aspire to be one. Yes, there are themes of maturity, loss, and forgiveness, and all these are treated respectfully and tenderly, but they never weigh down upon the energy and sweetness that the movie exudes. There is a wonderful blend of true emotional significance, clever plot surprises, and outright hilarious scenes.
Some "been-there-done-that's" pop into the film from time to time, and it's true that Seven Girlfriends won't change your life or leave you deeply moved. But as romantic comedies go, it far outclasses most of the lifeless schlock churned out by bigger studios. It will take you on a delightful ride, perhaps toss a few insights your way, and leave you with a smile on your face.
Tim Daly is charming as Jesse, the protagonist who is so frustrated with unsuccessful relationships that he decides to seek out, one by one, each his ex-girlfriends and figure out what went wrong. Laura Leighton is a pleasure, too, as the most meaningful of Jesse's loves, despite spending the majority of her screen time in flashbacks. Melora Hardin has a somewhat smaller role, but she shines while onscreen, making each of her scenes count. And yes, that's really her singing. All in all, despite a lack of marquee names, nary a weak performance is to be found.
The film is by no means a masterpiece, nor it does it ever aspire to be one. Yes, there are themes of maturity, loss, and forgiveness, and all these are treated respectfully and tenderly, but they never weigh down upon the energy and sweetness that the movie exudes. There is a wonderful blend of true emotional significance, clever plot surprises, and outright hilarious scenes.
Some "been-there-done-that's" pop into the film from time to time, and it's true that Seven Girlfriends won't change your life or leave you deeply moved. But as romantic comedies go, it far outclasses most of the lifeless schlock churned out by bigger studios. It will take you on a delightful ride, perhaps toss a few insights your way, and leave you with a smile on your face.