Name: Just Short of Perfect
Genre: Romance, Comedy
Released: 2021-11-18T00:00:00+00:00
Cast: Leandro Hassum, Juliana Paes, Elizângela, Marcelo Mansfield, Marcelo Laham

The moment Leandro Hassum’s Leão confidently struts onto the stage at that smoky music club, guitar in hand, you know you’re in for a romantic comedy that isn’t afraid to lean into its tropes. Just Short of Perfect, directed by Ale McHaddo, is a Brazilian remake of the Argentinian film Lion’s Heart, and it wears its influences proudly—sometimes too proudly.

The film’s central premise—a tall, newly divorced lawyer (Juliana Paes’ Ivana) falling for a short, charismatic cardiologist (Leandro Hassum)—isn’t exactly fresh, but McHaddo and screenwriter Michelle Ferreira infuse the story with enough charm to make it feel worthwhile. The chemistry between Paes and Hassum is undeniable, especially in scenes where they banter or share quiet, intimate moments. Their romantic dinner date, complete with a shared kiss under the moonlight, is one of the film’s highlights, showcasing both their on-screen rapport and McHaddo’s knack for capturing tender, genuine moments.

Paes, known for her roles in telenovelas and other Brazilian productions, brings a commanding presence to Ivana. She balances vulnerability and strength effortlessly, making Ivana’s journey from independent lawyer to a woman navigating new love feel authentic. Hassum, on the other hand, delivers a performance that is both endearing and nuanced. His portrayal of Leão is far from one-dimensional; he imbues the character with a sense of self-awareness and humor that makes him instantly likable. The scene where Leão finds Ivana’s phone and calls her home is a perfect example of this, as Hassum’s delivery of his lines exudes both charm and sincerity.

The supporting cast also shines, particularly Elizângela as Ivana’s mother, who brings a delightful mix of warmth and prejudice to her role. Her phone call scene with Ivana, where she subtly (and not-so-subtly) tries to steer her daughter back toward her ex-husband, is a standout moment that highlights the film’s ability to balance humor and heart. Marcelo Laham as Danilo, Ivana’s ex-husband, adds another layer of complexity to the story. His character is far from one-dimensional; he’s not just a villain but a flawed individual who genuinely believes he’s acting in Ivana’s best interest.

However, Just Short of Perfect isn’t without its flaws. The pacing stumbles in the second act, particularly during the wedding reception scene, which drags on longer than necessary. The physical fight between Leão and Danilo feels overly contrived and disrupts the film’s otherwise lighthearted tone. Additionally, some of the humor falls flat, relying too heavily on obvious gags about Leão’s height rather than exploring more nuanced aspects of their relationship.

The film’s originality is further hampered by its reliance on familiar romantic comedy beats. The dance-off at the music club, while entertaining, feels like a scene lifted straight from another movie. The resolution—where Ivana’s father experiences a (thankfully) non-fatal heart issue during her brother’s wedding—is a convenient but uninspired way to bring the couple back together.

That said, Just Short of Perfect has moments that elevate it above the usual rom-com fare. The scene where Leão performs live at the music club is a testament to Hassum’s charisma and McHaddo’s direction, capturing both the energy of the performance and the genuine connection between the lead characters. Similarly, Ivana’s confrontation with her mother and ex-husband is a satisfying payoff, showcasing Paes’ ability to deliver emotionally charged lines with conviction.

McHaddo’s direction is generally solid, with a few notable exceptions. The film’s cinematography is visually appealing, with well-composed shots that enhance the romantic and comedic elements of the story. However, some of the transitions between scenes feel abrupt, and the pacing issues in the second act could have been avoided with tighter editing.

Thematically, Just Short of Perfect explores the challenges of societal prejudice and self-acceptance. Leão’s height is a constant source of humor and conflict, but the film never lets it overshadow his character development. Ivana’s journey is equally compelling, as she learns to stand up for herself and her choices against the judgments of her family and ex-husband.

The film also touches on the complexities of modern relationships, particularly in the aftermath of divorce. Ivana’s struggle to move on from her past and embrace a new future is relatable and well-executed. The dynamic between Leão and his daughter, Manu (Pietra Hassum), adds another layer of depth to the story, highlighting the importance of family and acceptance.

In terms of genre fit, Just Short of Perfect fits comfortably within the romantic comedy landscape. It doesn’t reinvent the wheel, but it does offer a fresh take on familiar themes. The film’s blend of humor, romance, and drama makes it accessible to a wide audience, particularly those who enjoy lighthearted stories with heartfelt moments.

Ultimately, Just Short of Perfect is a decent rom-com that doesn’t quite reach the heights of its best contemporaries. It’s saved by strong performances from its leads and McHaddo’s ability to craft engaging, if sometimes predictable, romantic moments. The film’s flaws—primarily its pacing issues and reliance on familiar tropes—prevent it from standing out in a crowded field.

However, for fans of romantic comedies who enjoy a good love story with plenty of humor and heart, Just Short of Perfect is a worthwhile watch.