Just like his previous films, director Jamie Adams uses an improvisational style in his story about Patricia (Haley Bennett) who goes to stay in a hotel, unknowingly run by her ex-husband, Idris (Sam Riley) and his girlfriend Louise (Marisa Abela). Having not seen each other in 10 years, there is a lot to reminisce about as well as a reflection of what their lives are like now.
There is an immediate sense of confusion the minute Patricia steps onto the beach, it feels like she has been there before but there is uncertainty in her behaviour. This energy follows her throughout the film, even after her awkward reunion with Idris and her first-time meeting Louise. She acts indifferent to cover her shock and lack preparation in ever meeting her ex-husband again. Although both surprised and somewhat pleased to see each other, Patricia shows more vulnerability, being the outsider, trying to seem completely fine with the situation.
There is great naturalistic chemistry between Bennett and Riley, as they spar with each other as if no time has passed. They easily flow into the sillier moments, dressing up as ghosts to wonder the house and back to more heart-breaking glances of what used to be. The improvisational style of the film works perfectly for these intimate scenes between the ex-couple and even the more excruciating to watch moments with Louise who is not included in their jokes and gestures. In fact, some of the funnier scenes in the film, though not entirely important to the plot is Abela's Louise as she tries to make sense of lines in script she has been given to rehearse. Her frustration at Patricia's presence is brought through her inability to get the words to sound right, something is off, it's a small detail but its effective.
Although the characters have chemistry that flows so well on screen, the overarching plot has the same beats as any traditional romantic comedy and therefore feels predictable, you can already guess how things will end. Given the time frame of three days, these ‘beats' feel rushed and slightly disruptive to the story. Filmed mostly in a hotel in Cornwall, the story feels squashed into a tight space, not giving the characters room to breathe. However, if this near single set location was to create closeness for Patricia and Idris and capture this rare reunion then it could be interpreted as a clever way to physically express the couple's feelings. But it all depends on how you view their relationship, is it lost forever except this moment in time or could there have been scope for a longer meeting.
On the whole, She is Love has some amusing and heartfelt moments, but there is a lacking with the storytelling. Bennett and Riley's chemistry is entertaining to watch but this might not be enough for those looking for a traditional romantic comedy drama.
She is Love will be released in cinemas and on digital platforms by Signature Entertainment on 3rd February
