The Lovebirds Synopsis: A couple experiences a defining moment in their relationship when they are unintentionally embroiled in a murder mystery.
Leilani and Jibran have just come to the painful realization that their relationship is over when they unexpectedly become prime suspects in a murder case. Driven to uncover the true killer and clear their names, they embark on a thrilling chase across New Orleans, following a trail of clues. Along the way, they begin to reassess their feelings for each other and rediscover what initially brought them together.
The Lovebirds is a prime example of stale material made fresh by its talent. Michael Showalter has already proven himself to be a more than capable director in this genre, and I feel like he excels even further when given an incredible script to work with, like The Big Sick.
Unfortunately, there’s nothing incredible or even original about The Lovebirds. Instead, it feels like a hodgepodge of other movies, and I came away from it calling it Date Night-lite with a touch of Eyes Wide Shut. It’s a very by-the-book romantic comedy that clearly yearns to be more but just falls short.
As Jibran and Leilani begin to unravel the murder mystery, which eventually includes a sex cult and Congressmen, the movie feels like it is building up to what will undoubtedly be a hilarious climax that will tie up all of the crazy loose ends. All I can say is lower your expectations. The last twenty minutes felt like the screenwriters had no idea how to wrap up the movie, so it felt rushed and lacking. I wanted more and perhaps something not so easy.
That being said, I still enjoyed the hell out of (most of) it. Why? Because of its stars, Issa Rae and Kumail Nanjiani. They are perfectly matched for this kind of movie, and Showalter is the perfect choice to direct them. Not all jokes land, but Rae and Nanjiani exude enough chemistry and comedic timing to make even the more forced situations work.
The rest of the cast are nothing more than stock characters that don’t really add much to The Lovebirds, and to be honest, there’s nothing overly interesting about Jibran and Leilani either, other than the fact that Rae and Nanjiani play them. They’re two of the more exciting and talented actors out there today, and I hope to see them in more leading roles, preferably with a stronger script that will showcase what they can do.
Watched: 05/04/2020
Notable Song: Firework by Katy Perry
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