The Other Zoey Review: A Decently Charming Rom-Com

When it comes to romantic comedies, finding a fresh and inventive angle is a challenge. The Other Zoey, directed by Sara Zandieh and penned by Matt Tabak, ventures into this well-trodden territory with a unique premise that promises to deliver both laughs and heartwarming moments. While the film manages to hit some high notes, it doesn’t quite score the huge goal it aims for, even if it is a mostly enjoyable time.

The Good:

At the heart of the film is Josephine Langford, who delivers a solid performance as Zoey Miller, a brilliant computer major with no interest in romantic entanglements. Langford portrays Zoey’s intelligence and quirkiness with a charming sincerity, grounding the film in reality even as the plot takes a whimsical turn. Drew Starkey as Zack MacLaren, the amnesiac soccer star, brings a likable blend of vulnerability and confusion to his character. The chemistry between Langford and Starkey is palpable, adding authenticity to the evolving dynamic between Zoey and Zack.

The supporting cast, including Archie Renaux as Miles and the veteran actors Heather Graham and Andie MacDowell respectively, add depth to the film. Graham and MacDowell particularly shine in their roles, injecting humor and wisdom into the narrative. Patrick Fabian also delivers a commendable performance as the ambitious university dean, adding a layer of complexity to the story.

The film’s premise, though seemingly outlandish, provides a delightful setup for comedic moments and heartfelt interactions. Zoey’s journey from an emotionally reserved computer whiz to a hesitant participant in a romantic charade is portrayed with sensitivity and humor. The film explores themes of identity, self-discovery, and the unexpected nature of love, weaving these elements into the narrative fabric.

Sara Zandieh’s direction brings a light touch to the film, allowing the humor to shine through without becoming overbearing. The pacing is generally well-maintained, keeping the audience engaged throughout. The cinematography, especially in the scenes set on the university campus, captures the youthful energy and vibrancy of college life, enhancing the overall viewing experience.

The Bad:

Where The Other Zoey falters, however, is in its predictability. While romantic comedies often follow a formulaic structure, the film leans heavily into clichés and tropes, missing opportunities to subvert audience expectations. Certain plot developments can be anticipated from a mile away, robbing the film of some of its potential impact. The narrative occasionally feels formulaic, relying on familiar beats that have been explored in countless romantic comedies before.

Additionally, some characters lack depth, falling into stereotypical roles without much exploration. Miles, Zoey’s best friend, is a prime example, serving primarily as a supportive sidekick without his own significant character arc. More nuanced character development for secondary characters could have added layers to the story, elevating it beyond the standard rom-com fare.

Despite these shortcomings, The Other Zoey manages to elicit genuine laughter and heartfelt moments. The film’s dialogue, while occasionally cheesy, contains witty one-liners and amusing exchanges that keep the audience entertained. The performances, especially by Langford and Starkey, carry the emotional weight of the story, making it easy for viewers to invest in the characters’ journeys.

Overall:

The Other Zoey is a charming romantic comedy that, while not groundbreaking, offers an enjoyable viewing experience. Josephine Langford’s endearing portrayal of Zoey and the film’s lighthearted approach make it a pleasant watch for fans of the genre. While it doesn’t break new ground, it succeeds in delivering the expected romantic comedy tropes with sincerity and humor. If you’re in the mood for a sweet, predictable rom-com with a sprinkle of clever humor, The Other Zoey might just hit the spot.