Rhapsody of Love

It is refreshing to go to the cinema and watch a rom-com with such charm and character, and one that acknowledges and represents contemporary Australia in the storytelling. The story begins with a wedding, and follows the lives and loves of four very different couples. While the couples all face different challenges, their stories come together beautifully in Hopwood's script to present resolutions that are meaningful as well as happy. The movie is billed as the first Asian-Australian rom-com; it is the first Australian movie to have Asian-Australian leads. The challenges are not necessarily unique to Asian-Australians - we see the characters in relatable situations, and are drawn into their stories. I like that the story included a short film competition, the realities of living with anxiety, someone madly trying to finish their PhD and wanting to become a writer, and finding success with dreams of careers in the creative sector. Beautifully written and with great talent, I highly recommend it.

Rhapsody of Love tries to position itself as a feel-good, culturally inclusive rom-com, but unfortunately, it stumbles at almost every turn. While the intention behind the film is admirable-promoting Asian-Australian representation in a genre that sorely lacks it-the execution is flat and uninspired.

The biggest issue? The romantic chemistry between the leads is a complete misfire. For a film centered around love and longing, there's an awkwardness between the main couple that never quite goes away. Their interactions feel forced, the dialogue is stiff, and the emotional beats fail to land. It's hard to root for a couple when you don't believe they even like each other.

The pacing drags, the humor rarely hits, and the direction lacks energy. While some of the supporting cast members add charm and a bit of levity, they're not enough to carry the film through its sluggish runtime.

Rhapsody of Love has its heart in the right place, but a romantic comedy without believable romance or compelling leads ends up being more frustrating than sweet. A missed opportunity.

I had the chance to see Rhapsody of Love at The Gold Coast Film Festival screening this weekend and I was in for such a wonderful surprise. This film is what true romance is about and I have not seen a film like this in more than 10 years. I am 68 and an old softy who loves a romantic comedy. Kathy Luu and Damien Sato are both new to me. Both leads were outstanding in this film and you feel their chemistry, love and their journey. For laughs, there are other fun characters - Joy Hopwood (who wrote and directed the film) and Khan Chittenden are like an old Hollywood slapstick pair. The other supporting characters are also excellent actors and I enjoyed their performance and love stories. But the heart of the film really is with the Kathy Luu who is an extraordinary rare actress - her heart and joy lit up every scene for me and I felt very happy leaving the cinema. On the way out, I heard a young man tell his girlfriend "That was a really good movie, I'm so glad we got to see it. I'd go see it again." So would I. Thank you for making this film Joy Hopwood and team, and thank you for screening this Gold Coast Film Festival.

A wonderfully intimate, emotionally honest and buoyant Australian film that features some refreshing, new local talents. A fun film with a lot of heart. Looking forward to seeing what this team comes up with next.

You'd never think this film was shot amidst Covid and in only a couple of weeks. Refreshing to see rom-coms featuring Asians and 'mixed race' couples with an entertaining cast and script and makes this movie realistic. The photography, directing and acting is outstanding. I look forward to seeing more productions from Joy House.