Buckle up. 'Always a Bridesmaid' is the 2019 romantic comedy that brings plenty of laughs, undeniable chemistry, and a plot that might just spin a traditional storyline on its head. This indie gem, directed by Trey Haley and written by Yvette Nicole Brown, asks the eternal question—what do you do when you’re stuck in a permanent holding pattern of bridesmaid duties while waiting for your own aisle walk? All of this unfolds in and around Los Angeles, California, and lets us dive into the world of high expectations, dating disasters, and the not-so-casual quest for true love.
Let's talk about the lead, Corina James, played with impeccable grace and humor by Javicia Leslie. She's a successful career woman, intelligent, and is always there for her friends. Corina's role showcases the complex challenge of balancing a prosperous career while grappling with the intimate longing for personal happiness. It’s not just her sparkling personality that carries this film—it's also her ironclad sense of independence.
Now, you might be asking, ‘What makes this movie different from every other rom-com out there?’ For starters, it eschews the notion that women must be romantically attached to find their worth. Instead, it places them in control of their destiny and emphasizes personal growth over societal expectations. For anyone who’s been overwhelmed by the jackboot cadence of typical romance tropes, this film is a refreshing break.
While the chemistry between Corina and her dashing suitor, Mark Randall, played by Jordan Calloway, delivers the romantic tension we’ve come to love in this genre, it's more than just sizzling on-screen chemistry. It explores the idea that romance isn't contrived; it’s found in genuine partnership, friendship, and respect.
Despite the obvious comedic and romantic ties, the film takes a poignant approach to critique societal norms around marriage and relationships. Rather than relying on the tired trope of a woman needing a man to solve her issues, this film advocates for self-worth and esteem as the real prize. Oh, imagine the gasps from those believing society’s traditions are sacred.
From the get-go, the story spins a yarn filled with humor as Corina is surrounded by a cadre of brides. Yet, when confronted with her own emotions and desires, it’s the honesty of her journey that truly stands out. As Corina navigates the rocky terrain of relationships, we get a glimpse of how the movie fights against the notion of a fairy-tale ending, instead promoting authentic connections and happy coincidences.
It tackles the fears we might not dare to mention aloud—the fear of never finding 'the one,' or perhaps worse, finding them and realizing all the personal sacrifices that might entail. These themes are married with a healthy dose of irony, making viewers both laugh and empathize simultaneously. Clearly, it’s not just an escapist comedic interlude; it’s a narrative that seeks to expose and challenge our expectations.
Most importantly, while the film dances around the intricacies of romantic relationships, it doesn’t shy away from showcasing how society is constantly whispering its relentless expectations into every corner of our lives. It's precisely this audacity in presenting an alternative view on love and partnership that resonates deepest.
Another area where 'Always a Bridesmaid' triumphs is in its exploration of friendships. Rarely is a film so willing to delve deep into the nuances of female camaraderie, yet here it shines brightly. The ensemble cast, including talented names such as Yvette Nicole Brown and Richard Lawson, provides a robust backdrop for these relationships to flourish.
There is also the undeniable fact that the film points a questioning finger at the idea of 'forced' progressivism that is a staple of modern cinemas, driven by a need to appease rather than entertain. If you’re like me, enjoying cinema that's not afraid to take a daring leap into unexplored waters, then this film is a magnificent buffet.
Haley and his creative team manage to groove their way into the audience’s heartstrings—challenging us to question our own ingrained expectations about love and life without succumbing to predictable setups.
If people are looking for a movie that is not afraid to upend societal norms around gender roles and dating scripts while injecting a fresh gloss of humor and heartfelt moments, then look no further. 'Always a Bridesmaid' profoundly brings the essence of individuality to the forefront—letting us laugh, cry, and ultimately reflect on what truly matters.
In a world that all too often glorifies the cookie-cutter romance spectacle, this film provides permission to think differently. While it could rattle those accustomed to the traditionalist view of relationships, fearless viewers looking for substance will find themselves right at home.