Name: What's Love Got to Do with It?
Genre: Romance, Comedy
Released: 2023-01-26T00:00:00+00:00
Cast: Lily James, Shazad Latif, Shabana Azmi, Emma Thompson, Sajal Ali

The opening shot of What’s Love Got to Do with It? (2023), a cozy London houseboat swaying gently on the Thames, sets the tone for Shekhar Kapur’s latest rom-com: comfortable, familiar, and just a touch whimsical. This is a film that knows its genre inside out, nestled snugly within the conventions of romantic comedy, with Lily James as Zoe Stevenson, a filmmaker documenting her childhood friend Kazim Khan (Shazad Latif) as he navigates an arranged marriage in Pakistan.

Kapur’s direction is light and playful, leaning into the charm of its lead performances. James brings her usual effervescence to Zoe, a character who oscillates between wide-eyed curiosity and stubborn independence. Her portrayal is reminiscent of her work in Yesterday (2019), where she balanced quirkiness with emotional depth. Latif, though less experienced, holds his own as Kazim, embodying the quiet struggle between cultural duty and personal desire. The chemistry between them is palpable, especially in scenes where their banter crackles with unspoken tension.

The film’s strengths lie in its ability to balance humor and heart. Emma Thompson steals every scene she’s in as Zoe’s mother, Cath, delivering lines with a dry wit that cuts through the saccharine moments. Her performance is a masterclass in understated comedy, adding layers of warmth and authenticity to the narrative. Shabana Azmi is equally compelling as Kazim’s mother, Aisha Khan, bringing gravitas to the arranged marriage subplot. The cultural clash between Zoe and Kazim’s worlds is handled with sensitivity, though it occasionally veers into territory that feels more like a travelogue than a deep exploration of identity.

The cinematography is a standout, capturing the essence of both London and Lahore. The film’s visuals are rich and vibrant, immersing the viewer in the contrasting landscapes of urban England and the bustling streets of Pakistan. The soundtrack, though not groundbreaking, complements the film’s tone well, with a mix of traditional and contemporary music that enhances the cultural blend.

However, the film falters in its pacing. The first act meanders, taking too long to establish the central conflict. Once the action shifts to Pakistan, the narrative gains momentum, but not before some viewers may have lost interest. Additionally, the humor, while often delightful, occasionally misses the mark, relying on broad stereotypes rather than nuanced comedy. Some of the comedic beats feel forced, particularly in the scenes involving Mo the Matchmaker (Asim Chaudhry), whose character could have benefited from more depth.

The editing choices also leave something to be desired. Key emotional beats are rushed, and some transitions between scenes feel abrupt. The film’s structure suffers from a lack of cohesion, with subplots that don’t always serve the central narrative. For instance, the dynamic between Zoe and her ex-boyfriend James (Oliver Chris) feels underdeveloped, adding little to the overall story.

Despite these shortcomings, What’s Love Got to Do with It? offers a heartwarming exploration of love, culture, and identity. It’s a film that will resonate with audiences who enjoy lighthearted rom-coms with a touch of cultural commentary. The performances by James and Thompson are particularly noteworthy, adding layers of complexity to their characters.

In comparison to other recent rom-coms, What’s Love Got to Do with It? stands out for its cross-cultural perspective. While it doesn’t break new ground in the genre, it offers a fresh take on the arranged marriage trope, blending humor and heartfelt moments effectively. However, it lacks the depth and originality of films like Crazy Rich Asians (2018), which successfully balanced cultural exploration with compelling storytelling.

The film is best suited for viewers who enjoy feel-good comedies with a focus on romance and cultural differences. It’s not a groundbreaking work, but it delivers on its promise of entertainment and lighthearted fun. The themes of love and duty are explored with sensitivity, making it a relatable watch for audiences from diverse backgrounds.

In conclusion, What’s Love Got to Do with It? is a charming but flawed rom-com that plays it safe. While it offers some memorable performances and visually stunning cinematography, it suffers from pacing issues and an over-reliance on genre tropes.