The Lovebirds Movie Review
They say laughter is the best medicine and after watching The Lovebirds I am inclined to say I agree. The plot of this movie sounded absurd when I read the logline. I want to be clear that the movie is actually absurd. But somehow it really works.
Leilani (Issa Rae) and Jibran (Kumail Nanjiani) have been together for five years. They have grown apart a bit and the relationship has gone a little stale and a little sour. On the way to a friends party, they both admit that their time together might be over. That’s when the fun begins.
Their car is used in a murder and they witness it. Scared of being held accountable for something they did not do, they flee the crime scene and are on the run from the cops for most of the movie. They agree going to the cops is not an option and set out to find the people responsible for the murder and turn them in to clear their names.
The crime world that they descend into is full of twists and turns and hysterical characters. My favorite was Edie (Anna Camp), a Southern white lady who interrogates them with bacon grease and a kicking horse. There is also a weird cult-like organization called Sacrarium that is a hilarious spin-off of the Illuminati.
The Lovebirds is carried entirely by Rae and Nanjiani. Their chemistry together is amazing and they actually come off as a believable couple which is an added bonus. The dialogue is an absolute riot. At the beginning of the movie, the two argue over a wide array of topics including sex, friendships, Jibran’s documentary, and the Amazing Race. It was honestly one of the most life-like arguments I’ve seen in a comedic movie recently. The Amazing Race bit was particularly hilarious, as they argued about whether they would be able to compete successfully in the reality game show.
I also enjoyed a scene at a diner where Leilani pretends to be a cop interrogating Jibran about their involvement in the crime. This prescient conversation is funny but also twinged with hard truths about people of color and their relationship with the police. In fact, there are several moments sprinkled in the movie pointing out the flaws in the system in regards to the cops. In such a comedic and fun movie, it’s important to note that the leading characters do have to tread more carefully due to their skin color.
Director Michael Showalter, who helmed The Big Sick, chooses a more light-hearted approach this time, keeping things breezy and fun for the most part. Not too much sorrow is had for the man who is murdered, the focus is on Leilani and Jibron. Rightfully so, as they are the main attraction for the movie. They are comical and have amazing chemistry together. You will laugh out loud watching them get caught up in the criminal world. The Lovebirds is ridiculous and absurd but highly entertaining.
Film or Movie: Movie
You’ll like this movie if:
1. You like ridiculous plots
2. You thought Kumail Nanjiani was funny in The Big Sick
3. You want a light piece of entertainment for 1.5 hours
