By: Lana K. Wilson-Combs
Anne Hathaway ("Mother's Instinct") and
Nicholas Galitzine ("Red, White & Royal Blue") truly shine in the romantic dramedy,
"The Idea of You" directed by
Michael Showalter ("Spoiler Alert").
Inspired by actress/author
Robinne Lee's acclaimed 2017 novel of the same name, the film weaves a mesmerizing and tasteful tale of love and desire that, although fictional, resonates with such authenticity it almost blurs the line between fantasy and reality.
Hathaway plays Solene, a 40-year-old divorced art gallery owner trying to deal with her ex-husband Daniel (a terrific Reid Scott, TV's "Law & Order") and his younger and very attractive new girlfriend Eva (Perry Mattfeld, “A Little White Lie”). It’s complicated because Solene and Daniel share custody of their 12-year-old daughter Izzy (Ella Rubin, TV's Masters of Air"). So, they really have to be the adults about the situation which sometimes gets a bit sticky.
In a serendipitous turn of events, Solene takes the high road when Daniel, at the eleventh hour, finds himself unable to escort Izzy and her friends to Coachella. This festival is not just any event—it’s where August Moon, the UK boy band that has long captured Izzy's heart, is set to perform. The thrill of attending is one thing, but having VIP tickets for an exclusive meet and greet is the cherry on top for Izzy.
Yet, the festival proves to be an even more exhilarating experience for Solene than she could have ever anticipated. Amidst the vibrant chaos, she mistakes an outdoor bathroom for something else entirely and stumbles into the trailer of none other than Hayes (Galitzine), the charismatic frontman of August Moon. The chance encounter is as startling as it is fateful, and the connection between them is undeniable.
Despite the age gap—with Solene in her 40s and Hayes in his 20s—they share an instant, magnetic attraction. It’s reminiscent of the unexpected romance between Stella Payne (Angela Bassett) and Winston Shakespeare (Taye Diggs) in "How Stella Got Her Groove Back." One can't help but feel that similar sparks are about to ignite between Hayes and Solene.
Hayes is enchanted by Solene's self-assured aura and her nonchalance towards his celebrity status is a refreshing change. Solene, too, is drawn to Hayes' genuine warmth. His impromptu visit to her gallery, results in him buying just about everything in it. The real kicker comes when he's on stage with August Moon performing and he dedicates a slow jam to Solene. It's too late to turn back now. But Solene has to know that this is just a passing thing they are going through. This couldn't possibly be serious or last. Or can it?
Hayes sure seems as if he's not looking to merely add another notch on his belt. Their budding romance, while genuine, isn’t free from the glare of the public eye. Their increasing visibility invites paparazzi attention, and the ensuing social media frenzy brings unforeseen challenges, particularly for Izzy, who feels betrayed by her mother's initial deception. Daniel's astonishment at Solene's actions adds another layer of tension. Although he is in no position to give relationship advice.
As Solene contemplates ending their liaison, Hayes remains undeterred, hopeful for a future reunion. The film's conclusion delivers an unexpected and gratifying resolution.
“The Idea of You” is elevated by Hathaway and Galitzine's remarkable chemistry. The narrative transcends the conventional rom-com arc. The script explores themes of ageism, love, relationships, and second chances and they are all woven into a tapestry of drama and wit.
It’s easy to fall in love with “The Idea of You.” It’s a heartfelt, cinematic delight.
"The Idea of You" is available on
Prime Video May 2.
Editor's Note: Be sure to catch my N2Entertainment.net movie talk segment on the Kitty O'Neal Show Fridays now at 5:17 p.m. and 6:47 p.m. on radio station KFBK 93.1 FM and 1530 AM.
Look At This Trailer For
"THE IDEA OF YOU"
Lana K. Wilson-Combs is a member of the Broadcast Film Critics Association (BFCA), The American Film Institute (AFI), and a Nominating Committee Voting Member for the NAACP Image Awards.
