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David Duchovny and Meg Ryan in What Happens Later (2023)

Review by AfricanBro

What Happens Later

5/10

Trip or journey?

The movie is mostly about two actors just talking. It doesn't have the strongest start, but it turns into a little magical gem of a film. It's not your typical cute romcom; you probably need to be more of a romance movie fan than a romcom enthusiast. It didn't make me feel too mushy inside, which is basically how I judge romance movies, but I still very much enjoyed it.

The writers were important for this. It's essentially watching two ex-married individuals, everything else very much in the background. Their interactions felt genuine, showing a sense of maturity. Wasn't loudly bitter and bickering. The airport voice added a humorous touch, slyly responding to their conversation. The Instacart line made me giggle, and the movie had many little quips like that.

The dialogue-heavy approach allows us to get to know the characters while also letting Willa and Bill catch up as they relive moments from their past, which is the plot. Some of it is painful, and some provides clarity. As the movie progresses, the chemistry between the two characters gets better, and the conversations become deeper. It even imparts some life lessons. I initially thought it might be a wannabe version of Richard Linklater's "Before" Trilogy movies or Chris Evan's "Before We Go," but it offers a sensible twist, portraying an older couple reminiscing about their younger selves. I enjoyed it, and it also reminded me of "Destination Wedding."

The writers did a pretty good job. Of course, it's not a film for everyone, as many may not want to spend over an hour watching just two people talk. The budget seems noticeably low, particularly in the outside views of the snowstorm, resembling flakes in a snow globe. But that doesn't detract from what the movie aimed to achieve.

The movie isn't entirely grounded in reality; it incorporates elements like the universe working in mysterious ways, adding a touch of magic. It brought back memories of when I got stuck at the airport in Germany, where they powered down everything at night; I didn't expect airports to do that either lol. The story has some twists and turns, but it's more about the chemistry between the two characters and their connections to other people in their lives.
  • AfricanBro
  • Nov 3, 2023

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