KWEI’S MOVIE REVIEWS--“SINGLE ALL THE WAY"

 Kwei-- Wed

In my film reviews, I start with the benchmark of five stars and then deduct half or one point if the film falls short in any of the following categories:
· Storyline
· Screenplay
· Acting 
· Direction 
· Character Arcs

The reviews are my opinions alone.

Single All The Way, with Michael Urie and Philemon Chambers (Image: DALL-E)

Plot Overview

"Single All The Way" is a charming, Canadian, holiday-themed film that navigates the complexities of relationships and family expectations. The story centers around Peter, portrayed by Michael Urie, who is tired of his family's constant remarks about his single status. In a twist of holiday desperation, Peter convinces his best friend, Nick, played by Philemon Chambers, to accompany him for the holidays and pretend they are in a romantic relationship. This faux romance leads to a series of comedic and heartfelt moments, offering a fresh take on the classic holiday rom-com genre.

Cast Highlights

• Michael Urie as Peter: Urie brings a blend of humor and vulnerability to the role, making the character's journey relatable and engaging. His character is a somewhat Hollywood-esque stereotypical portrayal of a gay man.
• Philemon Chambers as Nick: Chambers delivers a more nuanced and tender performance, showcasing great chemistry with Urie and adding depth to the narrative.
• Luke Macfarlane as James: Macfarlane's portrayal of James adds an intriguing dynamic to the plot with a somewhat surprising result, further complicating the relationship between Peter and Nick.

 

Behind the Scenes

The movie was filmed predominantly in the Canadian city of Montréal in Québec.

With the film’s narrative set in Bridgewater, New Hampshire, Montréal was virtually used as Bridgewater’s on-location stand-in. 

Commentary

While "Single All The Way" excels in its light-hearted approach and holiday charm, the storyline involving the protagonists realizing their love after years of friendship does stretch credibility. This aspect, although somewhat predictable and a common trope in romantic comedies, might not resonate with those seeking more realistic portrayals of relationship development. However, it falls within the acceptable norms for a light romantic comedy of this type, where the focus is more on the journey and emotional payoff rather than the plausibility of the plot's evolution.

Wrap-Up and Rating

With its engaging plot, talented cast, and heartwarming moments, "Single All The Way" is a delightful addition to the holiday movie lineup. It manages to deliver both laughs and a meaningful message, making it a good choice for a cozy, festive watch.

Storyline: 3/5

The plot, while charming and fitting for the genre, relies on familiar tropes and predictable turns that might not appeal to everyone. The concept of friends turning lovers is well-trodden, yet the film manages to keep it engaging.

Screenplay: 3.5/5

The screenplay is witty and well-paced, with dialogues that add to the comedic and emotional elements of the film. It effectively balances humor with more tender moments.

Acting: 4/5

The performances by Michael Urie, Philemon Chambers, and Luke Macfarlane are commendable. They bring depth to their characters, making them relatable and endearing.

Direction: 3.5/5

The direction is solid, with a good sense of timing and emotional resonance. The director successfully creates a festive atmosphere that complements the narrative.

Character Arcs: 3.5/5

The character development is one of the stronger aspects of the film. The journey of the main characters is well-executed, showing growth and a realistic portrayal of their evolving relationships.

Overall Rating: 3.5 out of 5

Bottom Line

"Single All The Way" is a feel-good film that offers more than just holiday cheer. It's a well-crafted story about love, friendship, and the importance of being true to oneself. Most importantly, the person you love might be right in front of you without you realizing it.

Bottom Line

"Single All The Way" offers a familiar yet enjoyable experience typical of holiday romantic comedies. Its strengths lie in its engaging performances and the sweet, heartwarming journey of its characters, making it a pleasant watch for those who enjoy the genre.