One movie that might be overlooked in the dog days of summer and the beginning of autumn is the new indie romantic comedy “Celeste and Jesse Forever.” So far, it has preformed decently in a limited release roll out platform grossing $1 million at the box office. However, this charming, quick-witted comedy is begging for a more mainstream audience and could post some solid numbers and devout fans thanks for quality film traits. Starring and co-written by Rashida Jones (“The Office,” “The Social Network”), “Celeste and Jesse Forever” is a drama-comedy about the fallout of a dissolving relationship and the struggle to move on from it. Many people have been in a similar situation and could relate being in a complicated friendship. The chemistry between Rashida Jones and Andy Samberg was infectious and a lot of fun. You believed that they cared for one another and mutually agree it wasn’t going to work out for the both of them. They support the film through the weaknesses of pacing and moments of believability. Reading reviews from critics on Rotten Tomatoes, a majority of critics are polarized. They either love it or hate it. I really liked it a lot.
The genuine and witty screenplay reminded me of a low-key, indie version of a Will Gluck, (“Easy A,” “Friends with Benefits”), movie full of numerous zingers about pop culture, celebrities, and mocking trends. At times, this movie was too hip for its own good, which I still enjoyed. And out of nowhere is Emma Roberts, best known as Julia Roberts niece, who steals many of the scenes as a media savvy pop star; part Ke$ha, part bad girl version of Miley Cyrus. At times, this screenplay could elevate and transcend Rashida Jones into a different career similar to the Tina Fey caliber style of sarcastic, media-savvy, feminist comedy. Though other than the serious conversations between Jones and Samberg, most of the movie isn’t very deep and has a lightweight tone showcasing Yuppies solving their relational problems. While so many movies dealing with the fake, one-dimensional drama of relationships balancing a comedic tone, ‘Celeste and Jesse’ will probably be better then 95% of romantic comedies released this year.
