Someone Great

Someone Great is a hilarious yet heart-tugging 2019 romantic comedy-drama flick directed and written by Jennifer Kaytin Robinson. The movie boasts an ensemble cast of talented actors such as Gina Rodriguez, LaKeith Stanfield, and Brittany Snow.

The film takes the viewers on a journey with the protagonist, Jenny Young, portrayed by the incredibly talented Gina Rodriguez best known for her role in the popular tv series, 'Jane the Virgin'. Jenny is an aspiring music journalist based in New York City, who has just landed her dream job at a renowned music magazine in San Francisco. Although this is a massive breakthrough in her career, it also puts her in a predicament concerning her romantic relationship with Nate Davis, heartily played by LaKeith Stanfield, as they both grapple with the conundrum of maintaining a long-distance relationship.

Their nine-year-long love story comes to an end and we see Jenny grappling with heartbreak in one of the most relatable and real ways. Instead of healing in solitude, Jenny decides to cope with her heartbreak by having a last hurrah with her two best friends, Erin Kennedy and Blair Helms, played by DeWanda Wise and Brittany Snow, respectively.

Erin is a lively and fun-loving character who lives life spontaneously, avoiding long-term commitments, especially in relationships. This trait is depicted through her reluctance to make her relationship with Leah official. On the other hand, Blair is the epitome of organization and orderly conduct. She's stuck in an unfulfilled relationship with her long-term boyfriend Will, seeking perfection, yet missing the essence of a true relationship.

The movie works its magic through the camaraderie between these three friends, their shared laughs, cries, and experiences give the movie an authentic and relatable flavor. It highlights female friendships in the most refreshing and supportive manner, which adds a new layer of depth to the storyline.

Throughout the film, the audience is taken through flashbacks that portray Jenny and Nate’s love story, unfolding their romance, their struggles, and ultimately their breakup. Stanfield brilliantly captures the nuances of a partner caught up in the whirlpool of love and career choices.

The movie's strength lies not only in its authentic portrayal of relationships and friendships but also in its depiction of individual growth and self-discovery. As Jenny deals with the aftermath of her breakup, we see her evolve from a heartbroken woman to an individual who starts prioritizing her dreams and ambitions. We witness a journey of personal growth and self-love that sets a positive example for the viewers.

Furthermore, Someone Great benefits from its perfect balance of comedy and drama. While it beautifully paints the heartache that breakups bring about, it counteracts the intensity of these emotions with moments of laughter, fun, and light-heartedness. It is refreshingly poignant, and vibrantly funny, creating a blend that will have you shedding tears one moment and laughing the next.

Director Jennifer Kaytin Robinson has done a splendid job of capturing the essence of relationships and friendships of the millennial age. Her storytelling, when combined with amazing performances by Gina Rodriguez, LaKeith Stanfield, and Brittany Snow, transforms Someone Great into an incredible rom-com that leaves a lasting impression. It’s a film that lends a substantial voice to women, treating them not as mere characters but human beings with intricate emotions and powerful dreams.

The movie is further enlivened by its lively soundtrack that plays a crucial role in highlighting the narrative's mood and tone. Pop, hip-hop, and indie music make up a diverse sonic palette that adds emotional depth to the narrative, and in several moments, the music speaks louder than words.

In conclusion, Someone Great is a contemporary exploration of relationships, friendships, heartbreaks, and the path to self-love. It’s bold, funny, and genuine. It’s a film about growth, finding your identity, learning to prioritize yourself and most importantly, learning how to let go. For anyone navigating love, friendship, and careers, Someone Great is an entertaining, relatable, and must-watch movie that will take you on an emotional rollercoaster ride.