Laura Dern

Is Lonely Planet a Hit or a Miss? We Watched and We Have Thoughts!

Laura Dern and Liam Hemsworth take us on a romantic adventure in 'Lonely Planet'—but do they leave us starry-eyed or scratching our heads? Dive in to find out!

Netflix has just dropped its latest romantic endeavor, "Lonely Planet," starring Laura Dern and Liam Hemsworth. The film, directed by Susannah Grant, takes audiences on a supposed journey of romance and self-discovery, but is it any good? Some critics have dubbed the film as lacking chemistry, with one review stating that Dern's fierce evisceration of Hemsworth brings a cathartic energy, akin to watching a high school sports bro getting schooled. With an age gap that some viewers noted, the film tries to flirt but often stumbles into the friend-zone of romance movie tropes.

The dynamic between Laura Dern, a legend known for her roles in iconic films like "Jurassic Park," and Liam Hemsworth, famous for his Hunger Game exploits, should be electric. However, many reviews suggest the film's spark is taking a long vacation, leaving viewers wondering if the couple will ever find their rhythm. The clear contrasts between the characters seem intriguing enough but often turn into a bland experience, where moments of enthusiasm feel like they were forced. Critics have also humorously pointed out that the film feels more like an awkward travel ad than a genuine love story.

In a recent chat, Dern praised Hemsworth as "the safest person" while filming intimate scenes. This compliment adds a layer of curiosity about their on-screen relationship. Is being "safe" the secret ingredient for on-screen chemistry, or does it leave audiences wanting more? Such reflections only underline the broader challenges facing the rom-com genre in the current media landscape. Ensuring plots remain fresh and relatable can be tough, as viewers crave the authenticity that characters seem to lack here.

Despite its flaws, "Lonely Planet" does hold potential for romantic comedy lovers who enjoy watching handsome faces and stunning locations. The pretty landscapes might serve well as a backdrop to a less-than-stellar romantic endeavor. On a side note, Laura Dern has been winning hearts not just on screen but also on social media, where she shares light-hearted, humorous memes, giving us a glimpse of her fun personality beyond the intense roles.

A fun fact to consider is that Susannah Grant, the director, is known for her Oscar-nominated script for "Erin Brockovich," which sets high expectations for her narrative prowess. It’s also interesting to note that Laura Dern, at 57, continues to challenge the conventions of Hollywood, proving that age is but a number when it comes to showcasing romance on screen!