Choosing Signs

Choosing Signs is a magically unconventional romantic comedy that revolves around an intricate combination of love, culture, and fate, suitably sprinkled with a pinch of Irish charm. Written and directed by Owen Dara, this 2013 film stars Jessica Lancaster as the protagonist alongside the director himself and Betsy Douds.

At the core of the plot, we find Jennifer, an American woman in her thirties, portrayed brilliantly by Jessica Lancaster. Jennifer represents every woman's struggle to find balance amidst the storm of life, career, and love. Her intricate personality is defined by her acute attachment towards signs and symbolism, which she relies on to navigate her life's decisions. What sets Jennifer apart is her vibrant life led by these signs from the universe that she believes are guiding her destiny.

The charm of the old world meets the rush of the new when Jennifer falls in love with Matt, an Irish man portrayed by Owen Dara. His character, etched out as the typical average Joe for most parts, holds a quirkiness that is unmistakably Irish. His struggles with language and cultural differences add a layer of humor to the plot.

As love blossoms between Jennifer and Matt, viewers are taken on an enchanting journey of their relationship. The movie plays out the differences between the couple in a light-hearted manner, leaving the audience laughing and empathizing with their relatable struggles. From clashes over superstitions and signals, to Matt's eccentric Irish family who don't quite understand Jennifer's obsession with signs, their relationship is a hilarious roller-coaster ride of emotions.

The third pillar of the story is Renee played by Betsy Douds who forms a sarcastic yet emotional bond as Jennifer's supportive best friend. Renee, as the voice of reason, provides much-needed logical interjections to Jennifer's whimsical world beleaguered by signs and signals.

Choosing Signs excels in exploring the scenario of two unlikely and culturally diverse individuals who walk into a maze of compromising love, personal quirks, and their own interpretation of the world around them. The movie's magic lies in the essence of unpredictability and the ludicrousness that cloth a simple love story, making it an enjoyable watch.

Creating a beautifully harmonic melange of American and Irish cultures, the film emphasizes the role of fate and signs in leading the course of our lives. Swooping shots of Cork, Ireland's picturesque landscapes form an eye-pleasing backdrop to the unlikely couple's story, setting the scene for this transatlantic romance.

The script is intelligent and witty, filled with comical digs at cultural misunderstanding and the human obsession with signs and fate. However, the film goes beyond the laughs, subtly questioning the way we let signs, superstitions, and so-called fate dictate our lives and decisions. It makes us contemplate whether we are controlled by signs or if we are, subconsciously or not, choosing the signs that govern our lives.

Choosing Signs is a true romantic comedy, but it breaks away from traditional norms with its fresh take on the genre by adding elements of cultural comedy, magical realism, and a sweetly philosophical edge. The film finds a beautiful balance between playful humor and thought-provoking notions, maintaining its charm throughout. The characters are realistic and flawed, making them easy to identify with, and their relationships with each other are accurately and genuinely depicted.

The charm of the Irish countryside, the eccentricity of the characters, and the great on-screen chemistry between the leads make Choosing Signs a unique and enthralling watch. Despite occasionally slipping into stereotypical humor, it provides a noteworthy perspective on love, culture, and destiny that stays with you long after the film ends.

Choosing Signs is a delightful movie that effortlessly combines romance, humor, and a touch of magic to present an enchanting tale of love, choice, and destiny. It is an intelligent exploration of faith in fate and self-determination, making it an entertaining and insightful experience.