Movie Review: Lovebirds
By Kevin Hoskinson
Issa Rae and Kamail Nanjiani shine in Lovebirds, a comedy about relationships, murder, and one of life’s ultimate questions: why don’t they measure the proper amount of milkshake at restaurants?
In the film, Issa and Kamail play Leilani and Jibran, a couple on the brink of breaking up. During a pivotal moment in their relationship, they get embroiled in a murder mystery where they are the main suspects. They do the only thing any logical thinking innocent person does, they run! Soon they find themselves trying to get to the bottom of the crime while uncovering a deeper conspiracy. The night also forces them to re-examine their relationship and realize there might be hope after all.
The latest film from director Michael Showalter is a showcase for the talents of the fantastic leads. Nanjiani has been on an upward swing with his career over the last couple of years, and it’s not hard to see why. He’s charismatic, charming, and funny. I am also ashamed to admit that I haven’t discovered Issa Rae before this film. She is super funny and talented; it’s impossible to take your eyes off of her. It could be the script by Aaron Abrams and Brendan Gall, but there is a natural chemistry between the two that is electric, they couldn’t have picked two better actors.
Speaking of the script, there is one problem with it. While it’s whip-smart and hilarious, the story is a bit formulaic at times. The plot and the beats aren’t what you are expecting, but the way the story plays out is fairly predictable. With that being said, the weakest parts of the story are easily overshadowed by hilarious arguments and outrageous situations. Like “Game Night” from a few years ago, it doesn’t offer anything mind-blowing, but it’s really fun to watch.
Initially set to premiere at theaters, Lovebirds was a casualty of the current pandemic. It was a film I was planning on seeing in theaters, and I would not have been disappointed if I had. The last time Showalter and Nanjiani teamed up was the hilarious and touching “The Big Sick” a few years ago. That film wasn’t a massive hit upon release, but it has since found a passionate fan base, and I feel this film will go the same route. Definitely check it out and enjoy!
Rating: 7.0 out of 10
Kevin Hoskinson is a writer with a deep-seeded love for movies, comic books, television and the paranormal. From humble beginnings working the box office at his local movie theater, he’s worked his way to becoming a humble family man and professional bug exterminator. Growing up, he wanted to become an astronaut, a Ghostbuster, a dinosaur, and a Disney animator before he found his passion for writing as a teen. He studied film at Los Angeles Valley College with an emphasis on screenwriting and film criticism. He currently lives in Portland, Oregon, with his wife and two kids. You can follow him on Facebook, Twitter @Kevin_Hoskinson, and Instagram @kevinhoskinson.