Not Since You

In the aftermath of 9/11, a tight-knit group of college friends from New York University (NYU) had to navigate the complexities of life, death, and the ever-changing world around them. Five years after their tumultuous graduation, a reunion weekend unfolds in Georgia, brought about by the upcoming nuptials of one of their own, Max. As the group comes together, old flames and unresolved emotions resurface, threatening to disrupt the tranquility of the weekend. At the forefront of the story is Max's fiancée, Claire, played by Christy Carlson Romano, who has grown from a carefree college student to a poised and confident young woman. Her engagement serves as a catalyst for the reunion, bringing together her closest friends, including Jamie (played by Jesse Metcalfe), the charming and charismatic member of their group. Max's wedding to Claire also sparks a rekindling of Jamie's long-held feelings for her. Meanwhile, Rachel, played by Hill Harper's wife, Princess, is struggling to come to terms with her own unfulfilled desires. The film delves into the intricacies of their college romance, which ended abruptly due to circumstances beyond their control. Now, as Rachel tries to find closure, she grapples with the guilt of her past and the uncertainty of her present. Her on-again, off-again relationship with Michael, a quiet but introspective member of their group, is a recurring theme in the narrative. In addition to Jamie and Rachel's unresolved love story, another thread of the reunion is woven around Jamie's best friend, Max, and his fiancée's complicated history. The weekend's festivities become a backdrop for the group's collective exploration of their past and their future together. Throughout the film, director Steven Cantamessa masterfully explores the complexities of these characters, capturing their nuanced emotions, the unspoken tensions, and the delicate dance between friendship and romance. As the group navigates the challenges of adulthood, they are forced to confront their own insecurities and confront the reality of their lives post-college. Not Since You's narrative is a poignant reflection on the consequences of lost youth and the fragility of relationships. As the characters confront their past mistakes, they begin to understand the true value of their friendships and the beauty of human connection. Through this journey, the film ultimately conveys a powerful message about the importance of embracing love, forgiveness, and the complexity of human emotions. The film's supporting cast, including April Matson, Logan Marshall-Green, and Paul Marantz, each bring their own depth and authenticity to the narrative, further enriching the portrayal of the characters and their struggles. The ensemble performance adds a richness and nuance to the story, making it feel authentic and relatable to the audience. Ultimately, Not Since You leaves audiences with a profound appreciation for the bonds that unite us and the challenges that test our relationships. The film's narrative serves as a testament to the transformative power of human connection, love, and the importance of embracing our true selves. As the weekend comes to a close, and the characters disperse, we are reminded that the bonds formed during our college years can have a lasting impact on our lives long after graduation.