Take Care

Take Care is a 2014 romantic comedy movie directed by Liz Tuccillo, a notable scriptwriter best known for her work on the hit HBO series "Sex and the City". The film features a dynamic ensemble cast including Leslie Bibb, Kevin Curtis, and Nadia Dajani. The movie, while it may seem like a typical romantic comedy on its surface, explores nuanced themes of compassion, obligation, friendship, and the complicated ways sometimes the past and present can intertwine.

Leslie Bibb shines in the lead role as Frannie, a New Yorker who's strong and resilient yet somewhat unlucky. A car accident leaves her homebound with a broken arm and leg, unable to care for herself. This leaves Frannie, who is very much used to her autonomy, in a vulnerable position where she is forced to depend on others.

Bibb convincingly portrays a wide array of emotions: anger, frustration, desperation, vulnerability, and strength, making her character relatable and easy to root for. Kevin Curtis plays opposite Bibb in the role of Devon, Frannie's ex-boyfriend who she believes owes her a debt of kindness. Nadia Dajani rounds out the cast as Frannie’s sister, who can't fully provide the help Frannie needs due to her own responsibilities. Thus, the stage is set for a complex but engaging narrative.

Take Care pulls audiences into the world of Frannie, who must cope with her lack of mobility and her dependence on the goodwill of others to assist her in recovering from her severe injuries; a situation that many people, unfortunately, might find relatable after experiencing an injury or surgery. However, where the drama really kicks in is when Frannie decides to call upon Devon, her ex-boyfriend, who she had taken care of when he was sick. Although they have been broken up for years, Frannie feels that he owes her assistance during her time of need. Devon, who is well played by Kevin Curtis, comically struggles with his moral compass as he is torn between his comfortable life with his new girlfriend and his perceived debt to his ex-girlfriend.

Under the direction of Liz Tuccillo, the film does a remarkable job of juggling both the comedic elements of the situation and the more dramatic realities of Frannie’s dilemma. The movie maintains a light-hearted and engaging approach, with a storytelling style that is heartwarming and often humorous in its depiction of post-break-up relations, old friendships, sibling rivalries, and the struggle of dealing with life's unexpected adversities.

Nadia Dajani’s character adds another layer of complexity to the plot; she portrays a sister who is torn between her own family's needs and the desperate pleas of her sister, a depiction that will resonate with many viewers who have experienced similar familial predicaments.

As the story unfolds, the characters grapple with their feelings and loyalties, leading to unexpected revelations about their relationships. The past and present overlap as old wounds are reopened and new bonds are formed.

Take Care is an engaging journey that explores friendship, selflessness, unspoken societal norms and their exceptions. Tuccillo creates an enjoyable balance of humor, drama, and romance that keeps audiences eager to see how the story will unfold. Interlaced with moments of levity and poignance, the film provides plenty of opportunities for reflective introspection.

In conclusion, Take Care offers a memorable cinematic exploration of interpersonal relationships in the face of adversity. It is not your traditional romantic comedy but offers a refreshing take on the genre. For audiences looking for a story that is heartening, unexpectedly amusing, and unafraid to venture into the bittersweet nuances of relationships, Take Care is a film worth watching. Bibb, Curtis, and Dajani deliver convincing performances, making the narrative come to life in an endearingly poignant manner.