The Matchbreaker

The Matchbreaker is a delightful 2016 romantic comedy starring Wesley Elder, Osric Chau, and the late Christina Grimmie in her only feature film role. Directed by Caleb Vetter and crafted by Vetter Brothers Filmworks, the movie is a light-hearted dive into the complexities of modern-day relationships from the perspective of an unconventional cupid - a professional "relationship terminator".

The story revolves around the character of Ethan Cooper, convincingly played by Wesley Elder. Ethan is a twenty-something with a unique job - he's a professional matchbreaker, a person hired by concerned parents to break up the relationships of their children. Ethan's childhood sweetheart, Emily Atkins, is beautifully portrayed by the talented Christina Grimmie. Emily is a charismatic singer who has just returned to town, and this reconnects her with Ethan and their shared past.

In a twist of fate, Ethan is hired by a wealthy couple to end the relationship between their daughter and her boyfriend. However, he's taken aback when he discovers the daughter is Emily, his first love. This riveting plot development injects an interesting twist to the romantic comedy.

Wesley Elder's portrayal of the goofy yet lovable Ethan Cooper is a standout performance. He expertly conveys the character's internal struggle between business and feelings as he embarks on this tricky endeavor, providing a substantial amount of humor and heart to the movie. The performances of the entire cast, particularly Christina Grimmie as Emily, add vibrancy to the film. They excellently capture the essence of their characters and the nuances of modern relationships.

The late Christina Grimmie, best known as a gifted singer and former contestant on 'The Voice,' shines in her role as Emily. Her portrayal of Emily is genuine and heartfelt, bringing an infectious energy to every scene she's in. The addition of her enchanting singing voice serves as a beautiful backdrop throughout the movie, giving audiences a glimpse of her musical talent.

Osric Chau delivers a solid performance as Sam, the best friend and confidante of Ethan. He provides a grounding force for Ethan and is an integral part of the storyline. The chemistry between Chau, Elder, and Grimmie lifts the film from a simple romantic comedy to an intricate exploration of friendship, love, and one's sense of purpose.

The Matchbreaker masterfully blends romance, humor, and drama in its narrative. The script is intelligent and full of playful banter that will make you chuckle and think at the same time. The narrative provides a fresh spin on the romantic comedy genre with its unique premise - providing an engaging view of relationships through the lens of an unusual profession. The film is innovative, clever, and most importantly, full of heart, making it a must-watch for romantic comedy enthusiasts.

The film's setting and cinematography should also be given their due credit. The rich visuals and vibrant color palette contribute to the movie's captivating ambiance. The shots, whether within the local cafes, picturesque parks, or beautifully-designed interiors, fittingly reflect the mood of every scene. The film's feel-good soundtrack, combined with Christina Grimmie's melodious songs, complements the story wonderfully, adding a layer of authenticity and emotion to the narrative.

What sets The Matchbreaker apart from other movies in the genre is its unique concept, coupled with its insightful take on relationships. The film explores not just the idea of romantic love but also delves into friendships and familial relationships in a touching and surprisingly profound way.

In conclusion, The Matchbreaker successfully marries humor with emotion, and romance with an intriguing concept resulting in a pleasurable viewing experience. Amid the laughter and love, it intelligently examines relationships, decisions, and what truly matters in life. Strong performances, a distinctive storyline, stunning visuals, and an impressive soundtrack make it an enjoyable romance movie that offers more than the typical clichés. For anyone willing to delve into an unconventional exploration of love, The Matchbreaker is indeed worth watching.