When two star-crossed lovers in this Steve Pink production settle down to indulge in Edward Zwick’s About Last Night…, in that instance you realise that though sharing the same name as the 1986 endeavour, this is by no means a straight up remake, instead more of a contemporary reimagining of sorts, paying homage to the classic romantic comedy. However that doesn’t let this one off the hook so easily, as a film that remains exasperatingly devoid of unique and original ideas.
The aforementioned couple are Danny (Michael Ealy) and Debbie (Joy Bryant), who meet as part of a double date, with their respective best friends Bernie (Kevin Hart) and Joan (Regina Hall). While the latter seem more intent on arguing and ridiculing the other, the former fall hopelessly in love, and in spite of their friends’ advice, Debbie moves in to Danny’s apartment. However while their intense, passionate affair seems rosy on the outside, pent up emotions and frustrations could prove to be detrimental to their long-term ambitions.
Though presented in a melodramatic fashion, playing heavily on the comic influence of Hart, at the very core of this tale is a well-judged relationship the audience can believe in, and emotionally invest in. The disagreements between Danny and Debbie are relatively relatable, exploring themes such as balancing your friends and your partner, and the teething problems many couples face when first moving in together. The rest of the this title may seem inappropriately overstated, yet there’s a subtlety in parts, allowing for you to root for the protagonist’s well-being.
Conversely, Hart and Hall’s scenes verge on the intolerable, damaging the audience’s enjoyment of the overall production. Their inclusion is necessary, the audience need that light relief to prevent us feeling bogged down by the sentimentality, and in some cases, mawkishness of the romantic narrative. However it simply isn’t well-handled at all, and the pair are overbearing and for the most part, distinctively unlikeable. There’s just so much shouting. It’s like, guys, you’re sitting right next to each other, come on.
Though devoid of ingenuity and individuality, Pink must be commended for striking a perfect balance in appealing to both male and female demographics, as we glide effortlessly between the counteracting perspectives, similarly to the likes of Grease, in that regard. However unfortunately such appreciation cannot be extended to Pink’s balancing of the comedic and romantic elements. This excels far greater at the latter, and simply needs a more witty and sharp screenplay in order to be considered a success.
[Rating:2/5]
