By Grace Taylor
Rating: 5/5
With the risk of losing the home she grew up in, 32-year-old Uber driver Maddie (Jennifer Lawrence) responds to a job advert to date a rich couple’s awkward son (Andrew Barth Feldman). In the hopes of bringing the soon-to-be college freshman out of his shell, they offer a car in exchange. However, she soon realises the deal may be more than she bargained for.
Two words—Jennifer Lawrence. The Oscar-award-winning actress takes the plunge in her first broad comedy. And why has it taken so long? Lawrence belongs in comedy with her line delivery and charm. As for Feldman, the Broadway star gives a realistic portrayal of the quirky and loveable character of Percy. His shining moment was his rendition of ‘Maneater’ (Hall & Oates), the lyrics “Money's the matter, if you're in it for love you ain't gonna get too far”, perfectly symbolising the pairing. Through the couples’ chemistry on and off screen, Feldman and Lawrence are a delightful duo to watch.
It is very much a ‘Taming of the Shrew’ narrative. Though perhaps an overplayed and predictable trope, the film exceeded my expectations. Having felt the absence of classic rom-com, No Hard Feelings provides a raunchy, hilariously funny, sweet, and feel-good movie.
Despite the reception of the other cinema-goers, who were in fits of laughter throughout, the film is not without controversy. Full-frontal nudity and the uncomfortable age gap between the main characters left many feeling this film had missed the mark for modern sensibilities. To some, it was as if they were watching a movie made in the 2000s that would never pass in today’s society. Although some moments were quite outrageous, I would argue that critics missed what the film was trying to say.
No Hard Feelings is light-hearted and fun entertainment, a story of love and friendship. This coming-of-age comedy is one you don’t want to miss.
