Alice (Alice Garner) and Mia (Frances O’Connor) are two film students struggling with various life challenges, such as finding a new roommate to assist with rent and navigating the complexities of finding love and romance. It’s been three years since Alice has had a partner, and her desire for love has increased thanks to a regular visitor to the coffee shop where she works- a cute guy named Ari (Matthew Dyktynski). Ari oozes confidence, coolness, and style and, ultimately, understands that everybody wants a piece of him sexually. Mia fears commitment, and her current relationship with her ex-partner, Danni (Radha Mitchell), is on the rocks, purely due to her poor choices. She will often step back instead of being willing to move forward in love. Mia also wants to change classes due to her newfound idolisation of the course’s lecturer. On the sidelines is Michael (Matt Day), a medical student who is sick and tired of living with gross and lazy roommates. It’s come to the point where Michael decides to abandon his current living situation with hopes of better home life. However, little did all the people know that their lives would soon come together throughout one crazy (yet fun) day.
Love and Other Catastrophes (1996) is best described as a comedy and romance feature film directed by Emma-Kate Croghan, whose past work includes Strange Planet (1999). I loved the playful, fun, retro-like credits as the film began. The film very quickly introduces the many key likeable characters, and viewers will gain a complete understanding of their current challenges and personalities, as well as their quirks. In essence, no characters are alike here, and as they interact with one another, it’s amusing and exciting to see. Making the film more fun is when characters find themselves in a pickle or awkward situation, including Mia trying to change classes, which sounds simple. Instead, the school system and various members within the education system make Mia’s mission a nightmare.
Not only are the characters fun and likeable, but even more impressive is the dialogue and script, which is easily the film’s biggest strength. The film is dialogue-heavy and filled with snappy discussion and response. The conversations feel very realistic, especially when it comes to characters sharing a conversation, a gag or having a more profound moment. If you’re a movie buff, you’ll also appreciate the multiple film-related references, including a teacher obsessed with Alfred Hitchcock. The soundtrack includes joyful/playful instrumental music that feels welcoming. Surprisingly, the film’s runtime was quicker than expected, which felt fitting. There is a fist full of minor issues such as poor character choices, predictable aspects relating to love and romance, minor subplots and less enlightening storylines, but in the end, did I have a blast with this film? You bet.
Overall, there’s plenty of liveliness, romance and cheeky comedy in Love and Other Catastrophes. So much about this film is simply fun, right from the opening credits and character introduction. All the characters are so different from one another and involved in their own various personal dilemmas. Yes, some aspects of the film are predictable, particularly in the romance department, but the script is so fantastic that it just feels natural and flows wonderfully. The many film references that appear are also a delight for film buffs. Most characters are likable even when their choices are unwise or somewhat baffling. It’s a quick, snappy film that brings the right amount of charm, enjoyment and heart. Worth a look!
Love and Other Catastrophes (1996) is Now Available on Blu-ray thanks to Umbrella Entertainment!
7.0/10
11th August 2024
Written by Peter Walkden
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