When We First Met

When We First Met is a 2018 romantic comedy film that glues you to the screen, taking you on a roller coaster ride of emotions. The film stars Adam Devine, Alexandra Daddario, and Shelley Hennig as the main leads, and it's a heartfelt journey of love, friendship, and self-discovery against the fascinating backdrop of time travel.

The movie chronicles the life of Noah Ashby (Adam Devine), an everyday man leading a reasonably ordinary life until he falls head over heels in love with Avery Martin, a character so truly brought to life by Alexandra Daddario. Being a charismatic, free-spirited, and witty young woman, Avery is the epitome of the kind of woman Noah believes can make his life complete.

Their first meeting happens on the night of a grand Halloween party, where a series of seemingly ordinary events - a meeting at the party, a photobooth, and the click of a picture - lead Noah to experience an unusually genuine connection with Avery. Hoping for a romantic relationship, Noah is disappointed when their relationship veers into the dreaded 'friendzone'. But life takes a more disappointing turn for Noah when he learns that Avery is engaged to her dashing and successful boyfriend.

The twist in the story comes with the introduction of an exceptional photo booth that allows Noah to travel back in time to the Halloween party, the significant night they first met. And like a jigsaw puzzle, Noah believes he can assemble his perfect future by altering the events of the past. What follows is a series of hilarious attempts as he revisits the same day over and over again, each time changing his tactics trying to win Avery's heart.

Alongside Devine and Daddario's well-rounded characters, Shelley Hennig shines in her role as Carrie, Avery's fun-loving best friend who consistently completed their trio with a sharp wit and warmth. Carrie often winds up caught in the hilariously awkward aftermath of Noah's repeated attempts to alter the past.

When We First Met stands out as a unique addition to the genre of romantic comedies with a blend of science fiction thrown into the mix. The movie is brilliantly paced and packed with comedic moments courtesy of Adam Devine's brilliant comedic timing. At the same time, it conveys a significant message of self-discovery, exploring the ideas around the perfect timing. It confronts the age-old notion of first impressions, emphasizing that they may not always be lasting and that true love often blossoms from the most unexpected of connections.

The chemistry between the main leads is palpable and drives the narrative. Adam Devine, famous for his comedic roles, effortlessly transitions through multiple timelines, showing his ease at handling emotional scenes. Alexandra Daddario’s charm and charisma make Avery a likable character with a depth that demonstrates her acting prowess. Shelley Hennig, known for her bubbly roles, provides a brilliant supporting presence, offering another level of complexity and heartwarming humor to the movie.

Through compelling storytelling and well-invested characters, When We First Met explores the idea of 'the one that got away' while also reminding us that trying to fix fate can often lead to unanticipated consequences. The movie imparts a lesson about love and destiny, and how some things, no matter how much we may want to change them, are simply meant to be.

The film's well-crafted script, sharp dialogue, and comedic moments further enhance the movie's charm, making it a must-watch for anyone seeking a light-hearted and heartwarming romantic journey with an unexpected twist. So, get ready for a wild, humorous, and at times, poignant journey into the past with Noah, and experience the laughter, love, and life lessons that When We First Met has to offer.