I Love You Forever

Greetings again from the darkness. So, may we interest you in a Valentine's Day movie about an abusive relationship doomed to failure? What if I told you that it's meant to be funny, but it's actually quite depressing and dark? Cazzie David (Larry David's daughter) and Elisa Kalani are co-writers and co-directors on this film rumored to be 'inspired' by Ms. David's relationship with a certain former SNL comedian (the one known for dating a steady stream of beautiful women).

MacKenzie (Sofia Black-D'Elia, "Your Honor", "The Night Of") is a law student, and when the film opens, she's in bed with Jake (Raymond Cham Jr, THE IDEA OF YOU, 2024). We quickly realize this is a booty call ... although it doesn't appear that MacKenzie recognizes it as such. Or perhaps, more accurately, she hopes for more from Jake. This is merely the first painful example - and there are many more to come - of MacKenzie displaying very little self-confidence or self-worth, despite being lovely, intelligent, and quite capable of participating in flirty and witty banter.

Rounding out the trio of good friends are Ally (the film's writer/director Cazzie David) and Lucas (Jon Rudnitsky, HOME AGAIN, 2017). When together, these buds have a strong bond and whip-smart dialogue. The movie is at its best during these times. Things shift quickly when MacKenzie meets Finn (Ray Nicholson, Jack's son) at Ally's birthday bash. Finn seems like the perfect guy for her. He's a news reporter who can match her flirtatious ways, and delivers the most romantic first date one could imagine. The early stages go smoothly, and the weeks click by as they grow closer.

Of course, things (and men) are never as perfect as they seem. Finn begins to throw these manipulative tantrums that, frankly, are quite frightening. MacKenzie recognizes the behavior as unacceptable, yet is so intent on keeping 'Mr. Right', that she continues to work through his wicked (and bipolar) ways. Ally and Lucas try to be supportive for her, but Finn demands so much attention, that friendships and law school become after thoughts. It's infuriating to watch, and it's likely that I'm simply too old to understand why anyone would put up with Finn. Sure, partners are never as perfect as they initially seem, but hopefully few turn out to be as psychotic as Finn. The filmmakers have delivered a masterclass on what not to subject yourself to in a relationship ... it's just questionable whether this is the right message to deliver on Valentine's Day. On second thought, maybe that's the perfect time.

Opening in theaters on February 14, 2025.

And, unfortunately, it is because I have firsthand experience in this. I had to walk away a few times to gather myself. Also, I know he's a nepo baby but I really like Ray Nicholson's acting overall. He has that sinister look that mirrors his dad's and it works well for him.

Hope to see him in more movies.

I don't normally watch these type of movies, but I just wanted to give something random a try and I think because I have had very similar experiences it spoke to me, and because of that I loved it. It's definitely an Indie vibe, but it is funny, dramatic, and although some things are definitely made more dramatic for movie purposes it is still realistic. I think for especially millennials and younger it's incredibly relatable. I believe it will touch a lot of people's hearts in an unexpected way. It was really well done.

The "dark comedy" aspect did not work and was, frankly, inappropriate considering the subject matter. Low production value. Would have been better as an after-school special - shooter and without the graphic sex references. Feel bad for the actors, who I'm sure did their best with an awful script and overall vision. Just terrible.

This was a happy find for me and not at all what I expected. The first scene, I was like, oh no, not another one of those movies. Then the tone shifted and I started to chuckle. I laughed through a lot of the film, and was insanely annoyed through a good bit of it. The parts with Finn. Arrrgggh! I loved the friends and thought the writing was top notch. Many of us have been in this type of relationship, but to a much lesser degree. I decided to go to IMDb and review it, which I rarely do unless I am really impressed. Finding out who the writers were and that is was based on a true story sent me on another search. I can totally see PD having this personality trait. Cazzie what a ride it must have been. I will end with the old cliche "what doesn't kill you makes you stronger" (although sometimes you wish it had.) Great film girl!!