“The Idea of You,” Michael Showalter’s latest romantic comedy, kicks off with a quirky and charming encounter that instantly captures your heart. In this delightful tale, Anne Hathaway shines as Solene, who mistakenly enters a trailer she believes is a restroom at Coachella. This mix-up sets the stage for an unexpected adventure for the nearly 40-year-old divorcee, Solene. She had no intention of being amidst the vibrant chaos of Coachella, dreaming instead of a tranquil solo camping trip. However, her plans take a turn when her ex-husband Daniel, played by Reid Scott, fails to take their 16-year-old daughter Izzy, portrayed by Ella Rubin, and her friends to see their favorite band, August Moon. This twist of fate leaves Solene navigating through a sea of youthful exuberance, all while searching for a restroom.
In an amusing twist of events, Solene encounters Hayes Campbell, the charming lead singer of August Moon, played by Nicholas Galitzine. Initially mistaking him for a peculiar stranger, she soon realizes she’s in his personal trailer. Their exchange is filled with witty banter, leaving Solene smiling and Hayes smitten. This encounter marks the beginning of an extraordinary love story that mirrors the enchanting narrative of “Notting Hill.” As Solene embarks on a journey across Europe with Hayes, she faces the challenge of a romance with a younger man amidst the scrutiny of his fervent fans. This experience forces her to contemplate her desires and the life she wishes to lead post-40. Showalter’s film is likened to cotton candy – a delightful treat that’s enjoyed for its fleeting pleasure.
Anne Hathaway’s portrayal of Solene brings depth and humor to the film, particularly as she navigates the complexities of her life and the excitement of new love. The initial stages of Solene and Hayes’s relationship, depicted through their interactions in the gallery and Solene’s home, are especially compelling. These moments showcase their chemistry and Galitzine’s authentic portrayal of a pop star. However, as the narrative progresses, the film delves into the evolving dynamics between Solene and her daughter Izzy, who, at 16, has matured beyond her obsession with August Moon. This shift allows for a deeper exploration of Solene’s character, though the screenplay could further delve into the individuality of both Solene and Hayes.
“The Idea of You” excels as a lighthearted romantic comedy, brimming with laughter and led by the charismatic Anne Hathaway. It skillfully incorporates themes of self-discovery, making it more than just a simple love story. The film, set against the backdrop of the SXSW Film Festival and distributed by Amazon Prime Video, features a talented cast including Ella Rubin, Reid Scott, and Nicholas Galitzine. Directed by Michael Showalter and based on the novel by Robinne Lee, this film is a delightful journey into the complexities of love, identity, and personal growth, all wrapped up in a runtime of 1 hour and 55 minutes.