Name: Along for the Ride
Genre: Romance, Drama
Released: 2022-05-06T00:00:00+00:00
Cast: Emma Pasarow, Belmont Cameli, Kate Bosworth, Andie MacDowell, Laura Kariuki

The camera lingers on Auden West’s (Emma Pasarow) restless eyes as she stares at the ceiling in yet another sleepless night. This opening shot sets the tone for Sofia Alvarez’s “Along for the Ride,” a Netflix teen romance that tries to carve out its own niche but ultimately falls short of the spark seen in films like “To All the Boys I Loved Before.”

Based on Sarah Dessen’s 2009 novel, the film follows Auden, an insomniac who spends her last summer before college in the picturesque seaside town of Colby. There, she meets Eli (Belmont Cameli), another night owl, and together they embark on a series of nocturnal adventures. The premise is charming, and Alvarez makes good use of the coastal setting, with the beach’s natural beauty serving as a stunning backdrop for the film’s romantic interludes.

Pasarow delivers a commendable performance as Auden, capturing the character’s intelligence and vulnerability with nuance. She shares a palpable chemistry with Cameli, whose Eli is equally endearing. Their scenes together are the film’s highlight, particularly a quiet moment where they share a single pair of headphones on the beach, fireworks exploding in the distance—a visual metaphor for their connection.

However, the film falters when it tries to expand its focus beyond Auden and Eli’s burgeoning romance. The supporting cast, including Kate Bosworth as Heidi and Laura Kariuki as Maggie, are largely underutilized. Their storylines feel tacked on, lacking the depth and emotional resonance of the central narrative.

Moreover, the film’s pacing is uneven. While the nighttime scenes buzz with energy, the daytime sequences often drag, making the two-hour runtime feel longer than it is. The film also suffers from a lack of originality. Despite drawing from Dessen’s well-regarded novel, “Along for the Ride” struggles to differentiate itself from other teen romances in the Netflix canon.

The soundtrack adds a layer of atmospheric richness, but it’s not enough to elevate the film above its generic moments. The dialogue, too, often feels unnaturally expository, as if the characters are reciting plot points rather than engaging in organic conversation.

“Along for the Ride” is an imperfect but endearing summer romance that will likely resonate with fans of the YA genre. It’s not a groundbreaking film, but it’s far from terrible.

The film’s central theme—the longing to reinvent oneself—is hardly unique, but Alvarez handles it with a gentle touch. Auden’s journey from a reserved, rule-following teen to someone who embraces spontaneity is relatable and well-executed. The nighttime quests, which include everything from late-night diner runs to impromptu dance parties on the beach, are visually engaging and infused with a sense of freedom that many teens will find appealing.

The film also explores the complexities of family dynamics, particularly Auden’s strained relationship with her mother, Dr. Victoria West (Andie MacDowell). Their interactions are some of the most emotionally charged in the film, offering a glimpse into the deeper issues at play beneath Auden’s restless exterior. MacDowell delivers a subtle yet powerful performance, bringing depth to a character who could have easily been a one-dimensional authority figure.

One of the film’s standout scenes is a heartfelt conversation between Auden and her father, Robert West (Dermot Mulroney). Their exchange, which takes place in the quiet of night, reveals layers of unspoken understanding and mutual respect. This moment, like many others in the film, benefits from Alvarez’s restrained direction and the naturalistic performances of her cast.

However, the film’s reliance on familiar tropes and its inability to fully escape the shadow of other teen romances prevent it from achieving true originality. The love story between Auden and Eli is sweet but predictable, and the film’s resolution feels somewhat anticlimactic. While the characters’ journeys are satisfying, the ending lacks the emotional punch that would have made it truly memorable.

In terms of genre fit, “Along for the Ride” comfortably settles into the teen romance category. It ticks all the expected boxes—meet-cute, romantic tension, and a summer setting—but fails to elevate itself beyond the genre’s conventions. The film’s strongest moments come when it leans into its dramatic elements, exploring themes of self-discovery and personal growth.

The performances are generally strong, with Pasarow and Cameli leading the way. Their chemistry is palpable, and their individual portrayals of Auden and Eli bring depth to characters who could have easily been one-dimensional. The supporting cast, while less prominent, also delivers solid performances, particularly MacDowell as Dr. Victoria West.

Ultimately, “Along for the Ride” is a film that will likely find its audience among fans of teen romances and YA adaptations. It’s a pleasant diversion, offering a visually appealing setting and a likable central couple. However, it lacks the originality and emotional depth to stand out in a crowded field.

For those looking for a lighthearted summer romance with a touch of nostalgia, “Along for the Ride” may be worth a watch.

Tags: Netflix, romance, Kate Bosworth, Along for the Ride, Belmont Cameli, Emma Pasarow