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Revisiting old flames: Laura Dern and Liam Hemsworth ignite sparks in ‘Lonely Planet’
A nuanced look at age-gap romances
In a year peppered with younger men charming older women in steamy romances like “The Idea of You” and “Babygirl,” it’s invigorating to see a fresh take on this trope. “Lonely Planet,” directed by veteran filmmaker Susannah Grant, isn’t about the typical pitfalls of an age-gap relationship. Instead, it delves into the intricate threads of life that lead these characters to find each other. While some aspects of the film are rough around the edges, the heart of the story—the characters—offers enough depth and intrigue to keep audiences captivated.
Katherine’s artistic struggle
Our protagonist, world-renowned novelist Katherine (played by the effervescent Laura Dern), finds herself in a creative and personal rut. Recently separated from her sculptor ex, who is recovering from cancer, Katherine is unceremoniously kicked out of their shared home. Struggling with a severe case of writer’s block, Katherine travels thousands of miles to Marrakesh, hoping a prestigious international writer’s retreat will rejuvenate her creativity.
The challenges in Marrakesh
Upon her arrival, however, nothing seems to go right. Her luggage is lost, her ex-boyfriend Ugo (Adriano Giannini) shows up at the same retreat, and the water pipes in her luxurious room are broken. Just when she feels she can’t catch a break, an unexpected connection starts to brew.
Enter Owen: A life-changing encounter
Owen (Liam Hemsworth), the charming thirty-something managing a high-stakes job in private equity, seems to have it all figured out. He’s in Marrakesh as the dutiful boyfriend to Lily (Diana Silvers), an overnight literary sensation overwhelmed by the pressures of writing her next hit. However, as fate would have it, Owen and Katherine are thrown together during spontaneous excursions into the enchanting Moroccan marketplaces.
Sparks and intellect
As they navigate the vibrant streets, Katherine and Owen form a flirtatious friendship, discussing topics as substantial as travel, careers, and the human condition. Meanwhile, Owen and Lily’s seemingly perfect relationship starts to show cracks, escalating their conversations into heated arguments. It becomes evident that Owen and Katherine’s lives are meant to intertwine in a passionate affair, further complicating their existing situations.
Director’s touch: Capturing subtle nuances
Susannah Grant expertly handles the delicate subtext and nuances of her lead characters. She reveals how Owen and Katherine’s bond deepens, showcasing the deterioration of Owen and Lily’s relationship against the backdrop of historical ruins. It’s a masterclass in character development, painting nobody as the outright villain in Owen and Lily’s breakup. The narrative treats Lily’s emotional infidelity and arrogance with as much empathy as it does Owen’s workaholic distractions.
Complex relational dynamics
Grant portrays complex relationship dynamics with finesse. Unlike cliché rom-coms, Katherine is neither overtly sexually frustrated nor a victim. She doesn’t make obvious advances towards Owen, yet their chemistry is palpable. The film tackles deeper themes of self-acceptance and discovering true happiness beyond mere survival.
Performances that elevate the narrative
Laura Dern and Liam Hemsworth deliver nuanced performances, bringing vibrant playfulness to the mandated tropes of their genre. Their dynamic relationship portrays a genuine complexity that resonates more deeply than typical romance narratives, making their journey both relatable and compelling.
The minor missteps
Despite these strengths, “Lonely Planet” does have its flaws. The use of poorly executed visual effects and day-for-night sequences detracts from the film’s visual authenticity. Katherine’s catalyst for abandoning her luxurious room—a lack of functioning plumbing—poses a credibility issue when she appears pristinely groomed after a swim in the pool. Supporting characters lack depth, serving as mere plot devices rather than integral elements of the story.
A visual feast with a touch of empty beauty
Visually, the film aligns more with the heartfelt tones of “Under the Tuscan Sun” rather than Netflix’s typical lighthearted romances. The overarching sentiment that people often need to get lost to find themselves feels more like a home decor platitude than a significant revelation. The picturesque shots of the estate and its surroundings, coupled with the welcoming smiles of the locals, inadvertently mask a certain hollowness in the narrative.
The characters and their intriguing situations are what truly stand out, even if the overall package feels somewhat formulaic due to algorithmic influences.
“Lonely Planet” captivates with its complex characters and emotional depth, blending the elegance of nuanced storytelling with the charm of a picturesque romance. Share your thoughts on this film across your social media platforms and stay tuned for more insightful reviews.
