“The meeting of two personalities is like the contact of two substances: if there is any reaction, but they are transformed” – Carl Jung.
Brett (Guy Pearce) lives in Melbourne, Australia, and works full-time as a host for a television program that discusses all things music and pop culture. Tash (Claudia Karvan) is a journalist who covers all aspects of science. One night, a group of friends come together for a fun evening of trivial pursuit, and Brett and Tash, who are close friends of the hosts, are invited to join in. As the night continues, the two exchange flirtatious looks. At the end of the evening, Brett finds a moment alone with Tash and decides to express his feelings towards her. Tash is surprised by Brett’s openness and flattering approach. She acknowledges that they are quite different regarding their general interests and future goals, but this doesn’t stop Brett from leaning in for a kiss, which Tash can’t resist.
Time passes after Brett and Tash’s romantic game night, and the pair are still dating. Brett is at the top of his game, leading the hottest TV show in Australia. His work life is filled with celebrity interviews and glamour. Work for Brett is so good that a new job opportunity is on the horizon, but he’s yet to speak to Tash about it. If Brett takes the new opportunity, he must move to New York. As for Tash, she is still writing science articles. However, her work environment is way more hectic and frustrating, and she is continually battling to write news that will land her a decent page number in the paper.
When Valentine’s Day comes around, Brett presents Tash with beautiful flowers, but she soon discovers, thanks to a card, that they were initially meant for him. As their evening together continues, the pair continue to clash and disagree, and it doesn’t help when Brett is caught sharing about work opportunities with another woman at a party. Tash feels that Brett has changed over time, and Brett claims Tash criticises him constantly. As the pair continue to argue, Brett claims that Tash wants him to be just like her. In response, Tash wishes Brett were her so he could see what an idiot he is. Brett is embarrassed by the argument, and Tash runs off, upset and hurt.
However, on the same night, something magical takes place, and the pair swap bodies. Naturally, when Brett and Tash wake up and discover the enormous change, they deem it a nightmare. They try to reverse the body swap, but when they don’t have any luck, they realise they must now work together to find a way for their lives to continue and for them to maintain their careers.
Dating the Enemy is a romantic comedy directed by Megan Simpson Huberman, whose only other film credit is Alex from 1993. Dating the Enemy is not just a romcom, though. To my surprise, it explores how opposites attract. Guy Pearce and Claudia Karvan have great on-screen chemistry, and both deliver wonderful performances, especially after the body swap where they play different genders. There are plenty of comedic moments related to their delivery, inner narration, and the many awkward situations in which they find themselves. The romantic aspects of the film are believable and enjoyable. Although Brett and Tash sometimes make unwise choices, they remain likable and playful. The film’s final moments are compelling, touching, and sweet. The score by David Hirschfelder consists of upbeat and fun melodies, and the same can be said about the various pop songs featured throughout.
Overall, as a teenager, I loved watching Dating the Enemy, and recently revisiting it made me realise how much I still enjoy this well-performed romantic comedy. While body swap films are nothing new, the focus on the attraction of opposites in this movie feels new and refreshing. Guy Pearce and Claudia Karvan deliver excellent performances, bringing humour and heartfelt moments to the screen, and their chemistry as a couple is captivating. The film is filled with random, playful gags and awkward moments, making it a great comedy. Dating the Enemy is a standout romantic comedy from the 90s that deserves recognition and praise.
7.7/10
1st September 2024
Written by Peter Walkden
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