A Nice Girl Like You

A Nice Girl Like You is a romantic comedy of self-discovery, sexual awakening, and unorthodox advice from unexpected sources. Released in 2020 and directed by the duo of Chris Riedell and Nick Riedell, the film is a refreshing and relatable exploration of modern relationships and the fear of stepping outside one's comfort zone.

The movie stars Lucy Hale in the lead role as Lucy Neal, an endearing classical violinist. Lucy Hale is known for her compelling performances in TV series like Pretty Little Liars and her role in this movie is no different. She depicts the journey of Lucy Neal, a girl enmeshed in her comfort zone, to a woman embracing her own desires with grace, humor and a palpable awkwardness befitting the scenario.

Leonidas Gulaptis debuts as the charismatic love interest, Grant. Gulaptis' portrayal of the instantly likable Grant is refreshing and offers a balance of charm, wit, and gentle patience. The chemistry between Hale and Gulaptis adds depth to the story giving a defining backbone to the plot.

The talented Mindy Cohn plays the supportive and frank best friend, Nessa Jennings. Through Nessa, Cohn provides not only comic relief but also occasionally delivers bold, offbeat wisdom that shakes Lucy from her usual state. Both the performances from Cohn and other supporting roles provide a strong framework enhancing Lucy's transformation throughout the movie.

The narrative kicks off with Lucy being accused of being 'pornophobic' by her long-term boyfriend, leading to an unexpected breakup. Hurt and bewildered, Lucy stumbles on an unconventional way to confront her fears and reservations about intimacy. With a "sex to do list" in hand, she decides to step out of her comfort zone and understand her own inhibitions and desires. Hale’s melodious violin performances layered with her journey of self-discovery through the film set a unique emotional rhythm and an unusually candid arc for the story.

The movie tastefully portrays the theme of sexual exploration from a feminine perspective. It underscores the idea that it's okay to be unfamiliar or uncomfortable with some aspects of one's sexuality, and it's never too late to self-examine and learn. It sheds light on the fact that self-discovery is not only about the physical act of love but also about emotional vulnerability and personal liberation.

While A Nice Girl Like You does have strong undertones of sexuality, it predominantly employs humor as a tool to address the topic in a light-hearted yet impactful manner, making it a movie you can enjoy without feeling overwhelmingly confronted. Beyond its generous laughs and dating escapades, the film also showcases strong female friendship, further adding to its charm, and making it even more relatable.

The screenplay by Andrea Marcellus based on a true story orbits around the theme of being true to oneself in the face of societal or personal inhibitions. The heartwarming journey of self-acceptance and self-love that the protagonist embarks upon after her heartbreak leaves the audience rooting for her.

Moreover, the film beautifully uses music as a metaphorical element throughout the narrative. Lucy’s passion for her violin symbolizes her journey towards accepting her own desires and passion for life. And to top it off, Hale's live violin performance adds a layer of authenticity and charm to her character, making it even more compelling.

In conclusion, A Nice Girl Like You is not just a typical romantic comedy, it is a bold narrative of self-expploration and acceptance. It commendably breaks down prudish stereotypes while serving a feast of laughter and feel-good romance. The spirited performances of Lucy Hale, Leonidas Gulaptis, and Mindy Cohn are the heart of this light-hearted film. It's a movie that champions self-love, self-acceptance, and discovering personal liberation all wrapped up in a journey filled with humor, love, and music.