'A Lesson in Romance' was one of those films where this reviewer was very unsure as to whether she would like it. Have always liked comedy, and there are many great ones (some being favourites), and do like it when it revolves around family. The premise was potentially cute and amusing, though it was also one of those it could go either way ones. Have seen Kristy Swanson in a lot of things and have liked much of it, whether in comedy or in drama.
Was quite surprised, pleasantly so, by 'A Lesson in Romance'. The premise was not as cheesy as feared in hindsight, and while not as good as the positive reviews here suggest with it falling short of great, it is much better than the too low rating indicates. It is easy to expect something terrible looking at it, having seen films with similar ratings actually being that bad or worse, but while there are far better comedies out there 'A Lesson in Romance' was nice inoffensive fun taking it for what it is.
The acting is better than average, with Swanson bringing a lot of zest to her role. The chemistry between the cast is very easy going, full of charm and wit, and never looks stiff. The characters are strongly written, with strengths and also flaws without either extreme being exaggerated.
Moreover, the various relationships are on the whole done well with nothing being far fetched or too silly, and did appreciate that the film took its time exploring them. There is lots of comedy here and a lot of it is very funny and laugh out loud in quality, not subtle but the silliness doesn't go too far and there isn't anything crass or vulgar. The film is nicely made and the music fits well enough.
However, 'A Lesson in Romance' could have been a good deal better. The story is often very predictable, especially the easily telegraphed and too neat ending, and some of the pacing is a bit too leisurely. Especially when the story got thinner, which it did in the second half. Not all the writing hits either, the comedy is mostly just right apart from moments where it goes a touch too over the top. The more serious moments are a little too on the saccharine side.
Plus that first work dedicated to the Spanish language goof is pretty facepalm inducing and pretty unforgivable in a film centered around education.
Overall, fun and better than expected if unexceptional. 6/10.
