According to Spencer

According to Spencer is an American romantic comedy film directed by Shane Edelman and released in 2001. The film stars notable actors such as Jesse Bradford, Mia Kirshner, David Krumholtz, Adam Goldberg, and Brad Rowe. The movie portrays the life of an aspiring Los Angeles-based film director, Spencer, played by Jesse Bradford.

Spencer’s story begins as a young man living a typical monotonous life. His job as a mail sorter in a corporate office doesn’t amount to the excitement and creativity he craves, a far cry from the glamour he initially associated with being in Los Angeles. Surrounded by sky-scrappers but unable to touch the sky, Spencer's dreams of pursuing a career in directing seem distant, and his personal life matches his professional blues.

This all changes when Spencer crosses paths with his high school crush, a beautiful, enigmatic woman named Melora, portrayed by Mia Kirshner. He has adored Melora from afar since their teenage years, yet he never found the courage to approach her. Now, finding themselves living in the same city, Spencer embarks on a journey to win over Melora.

The film goes beyond the usual boy-meets-girl storyline and introduces an unexpected turn. Melora is already in a failing relationship with an inconsiderate boyfriend, played by Brad Rowe. But what complicates matters further is the presence of Spencer's best friend, played by David Krumholtz, who too has romantic feelings towards Melora. This dramatic love triangle adds a layer of complexity to Spencer's romantic pursuit.

Jesse Bradford’s character, Spencer, is a likeable, traditional protagonist who the audience can root for. He’s an underdog character who is stuck in a job he doesn’t enjoy and longing for more adventurous and exciting experiences which most can resonate with. He’s awkward yet charming, entangled in the throes of love, and daring to chase after his dreams.

Mia Kirshner takes on the role of Melora quite brilliantly. She portrays a woman who’s independent and sure of herself. Yet, she’s in a relationship that doesn’t seem to align with her. The title giving importance to the character of Spencer may lead you to believe that the story revolves solemnly around him, but Kirshner’s character and her journey of self-discovery find its own space in the narrative.

David Krumholtz, as Spencer's best friend, adds a sharp contrast to Spencer’s character. He is portrayed as a proactive, self-assured individual who, unlike the hesitant and endearing Spencer, knows what he wants and isn’t afraid to chase after it.

The city of Los Angeles is a character in its own right in the movie. The city with its vibrant arts scene, the Hollywood undercurrent and the churning ambition of its dwellers provides a fantastic backdrop to the unfolding drama.

Director Shane Edelman gives us a thoughtful romantic comedy with According to Spencer. While being light-hearted and entertaining, the film also explores deeper themes such as the uncertainty of adulthood, the whims of passion and ambition, and the intricacies of romantic relationships. There’s a balance of humor, romance, and drama that keeps the audience engaged.

The screenwriting efforts in According to Spencer excel at crafting nuanced characters and engaging dialogue, while also successfully injecting comedic elements that never feel forced or out of place. The well-constructed scriptbreathe life into the characters, making them relatable and their journey compelling.

On the whole, According to Spencer is an engaging romantic comedy that captures the struggles of chasing dreams and navigating around love while facing the reality of adulthood. The film offers an enjoyable odyssey of love, friendship and ambitions in the fast-paced city of Los Angeles amid compelling performances and a well-written script. The film is both light-hearted and profound, providing the punch of an engaging romantic comedy while also making the sometime complex nature of human relationships and dreams resonate with the viewers. It's a worthwhile watch for those craving a blend of humor, romance, and a dash of drama that reflects the realities of adulthood.