Weekenders begins with the sort of situation that will immediately turn some people off. Four twenty somethings all end up together at an Airbnb after a scheduling mix up. This leads to a weekend of introspection and realizations that will change lives. In the wrong hands, it is the stuff of melodramatic moments and tedious conversations.
Erik Bloomquist (who stars in the film along with being the writer and director) avoids the normal pratfalls of romantic comedies. Nothing is ever too neat or over the top. Instead, Weekenders has a laid back feel to it. The film comes off as very realistic. This is a character study and not just another love story. Audiences are let into a world instead of watching lives play out in front of them.
Weekenders is able to pull this off thanks to its excellent writing. The premise invites a lazy script. The character driven story is left entirely in the hands of its cast. Each is well developed and never falls into stereotypical characterization. The film remains enjoyable the whole time. There is some predictability to it, but it works in the confines of the story.
Things do move a little fast early on. The scheduling mishap is an accepted way to bring the group together. How quickly they are willing to accept certain situations is a little less understandable. Weekenders is able to make this a moot point thanks to some great moments. The stand out scene involves a drinking game that gets more hectic as things progress. By the end of the scene, the audience is as worn out as the four new friends.
Romantic dramedies are more difficult than they seem. The stories are simple enough. There are certain expectations from the audience that are usually catered to. It is creating interest that goes beyond familiarity that is the hard part. Weekenders is able to work thanks to its great script and relatable cast.
Weekenders comes to VOD May 18
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