All's Faire in Love

All's Faire in Love is a reigning rom-com from 2009 starring prominent actors like Owen Benjamin, Christina Ricci, and Blake Friedman, whose performances take center stage in this unique blend of medieval amusement and modern humor. Set against the backdrop of a Renaissance Faire, this light-hearted movie intertwines romance, comedy and high-spirited action, with its captivating charm engaging audiences of all ages.

The story chiefly focusses on two characters, Will (played by Owen Benjamin), a former college football star, and Kate (portrayed by Christina Ricci), a fervent actress. Will encounters issues when his coach demands he join a ragtag theater troupe performing at a locally organized Renaissance Faire so he doesn't fail his literature class. This is where he crosses paths with Kate, a committed actress who takes her role in the Renaissance Faire very seriously.

Will, advantaged by his suave and athletic build but handicapped by his familiar normalcy and lack of passion for the theatrical arts, and Kate, a young woman with a strong devotion to her craft but jaded by the micro-politics that pervade the Faire workers, make an unlikely but captivating pair. Their parallel paths soon intersect and a love story begins to kindle.

The charm of the movie lies particularly in its setting; a world full of jesters, jousters, minstrels, and the merry crowd immerses the audiences in the enchanting aura of the Renaissance era that feels almost escapist. The Renaissance Faire is portrayed as a world within the world, a time where modern people can step out of their everyday lives and transport themselves back to the middle ages for pure fun and amusement.

Owen Benjamin, with his robust comedic timing, makes Will an appealing character. He delivers a convincing portrayal of a laid-back jock unwillingly thrust into an unfamiliar territory which is inherently comic and coupled with Christina Ricci's passionate and serious Kate, it makes for an engaging and captivating watch.

Christina Ricci's performance as Kate is both intense and endearing. She brings sincerity to her role as a young actress committed to her craft, attempting to perform in earnest against a backdrop of playful farce. Kate’s passions, frustrations, and desires are palpable, giving the character depth and believability.

Blake Friedman makes his mark as the villainous Rank, adding an interesting twist to the plot. His character thrives on power dynamics and control within the endearing chaos of the Renaissance Faire - stirring trouble and tension as he attempts to manipulate the narrative to his liking. His performance adds an interesting dimension to the comic undertone of the film.

All's Faire in Love is a comedy that leans heavily into the sheer friction between the modern world and the historical past - finding humor in this cultural clash - adding a twist to the tried and true love story that is central to the plot. With it’s contemporary take on an archaic setting, the movie cleverly plays with contrasts - a jock amidst the jesters, a genuine actress amidst merry-makers - presenting a playful, amusing, and heartwarming tale of unlikely romance.

Director Scott Marshall, widely appreciated for his knack for crafting humor in unexpected places, successfully infuses All's Faire in Love with both slapstick and situational comedy, ensuring the laughs flow freely amidst the captivating romance, the spirited action, and the colorful milieu. The screenplay by Robert A. White seamlessly mingles romance with comedy while cleverly injecting a dash of drama.

In conclusion, All's Faire in Love is a treat for rom-com lovers looking for a unique spin on the genre. Featuring amazing performances from its lead and supporting cast, a storyline that effortlessly mingles love, laughter, and nostalgia for a bygone era, this film definitely deserves a watch. Whether you're a seasoned attendee of Renaissance Faires, an admirer of the period, or someone who simply enjoys a good, light-hearted comedy, All's Faire in Love might just be the movie for you.