A Charmingly Clichéd Rom-Com: When Friendship Blurs into Love
This is a refreshingly predictable, yet undeniably charming and funny romantic comedy about that age-old story: friendship blossoming into something more.
A year after walking in on his girlfriend with her professor, Wallace (Daniel Radcliffe) is stuck in a rut of depression. He’s dropped out of medical school, moved in with his sister, and become a recluse. But his college buddy Allan (Adam Driver) manages to drag him to a party where Wallace meets the captivating Chantry (Zoe Kazan). They hit it off instantly, but Wallace’s hopes are dashed when he discovers Chantry has been with her boyfriend for years and isn’t looking for romance. Initially disheartened, Wallace tries to move on. However, a chance encounter at a revival movie theater reignites their connection, and Wallace decides he can handle just being friends with a girl who shares his love for “The Princess Bride.”
Fun Fact: Although the film is based on a Canadian play called “Toothpaste and Cigars,” neither toothpaste nor cigars are ever mentioned in the movie.
The Rom-Com Renaissance?
In recent years, there’s been much discussion about the supposed death of the romantic comedy. Critics argue that the genre has become so formulaic that it struggles to surprise or impress audiences. In an era where finding a partner (or breaking up) is easier than ever, the search for love has lost the dramatic weight it once held. Why make a movie about choosing a restaurant when you can always go somewhere else if you don’t like the food?
While finding love might be more complex than ordering a steak, rom-com creators can no longer rely on tired tropes. These clichés are so overused that they become irritating, even when the film is otherwise enjoyable. “What If” is a prime example of this.
Predictable, Yet Endearing
Directed by Michael Dowse (“Take Me Home Tonight,” “Goon”), “What If” is undeniably traditional. Boy likes girl, girl likes boy, but they can’t be together because she has a boyfriend. So, they become close friends – so close that Wallace helps Chantry try on dresses – which torments him. Eventually, he confesses his love, leading to a predictable climax and a saccharine happy ending that would make even classic Hollywood blush. While films like “No Strings Attached” and “Friends with Benefits” at least attempted to subvert the formula by prioritizing sex over romance, Dowse sticks to the textbook.
Originally conceived as a Hollywood project, Casey Affleck and Mary Elizabeth Winstead were initially slated to play the lead roles.
The Saving Grace: Chemistry and Charm
Despite its predictability, the film manages to win you over. The awkward charm of Radcliffe and Kazan, their undeniable chemistry, and their perfect pairing (they’re even the same height!) make you root for them as if they were Romeo and Juliet. Add to that witty dialogue (aside from the Elvis Presley fecal matter discussions), excellent supporting performances from Adam Driver and Mackenzie Davis, and some genuinely funny scenes, and you have a rom-com that feels surprisingly real.
If “What If” had just one unexpected plot twist, it would be a must-see. As it stands, it’s a charming, sentimental, funny, romantic, and optimistic date movie. However, watching it alone might leave you clenching your fists, evaluating it as a work of art rather than an excuse for kisses.