"Players", the charm-filled and trope-troubled film directed by Trish Sie and penned by Whit Anderson, highlights the quagmires of trying to ritualize and run cleverly devised plays on potential romantic interests. While dating strategies at times do work – think Tony Curtis nabbing Marilyn Monroe's eye in "Some Like It Hot" by feigning millionaire status – the ploy can lose its appeal, especially when the shenanigans are as obvious as those played out by the group of friends in "Players".
The film centers around a band of New York City dweller singles, who spend their free time strategizing and executing elaborate 'plays' on their unsuspecting targets. The 'plays', named for their potential effects such as "The Betsy Ross" and "Drip Drop”, have stirred up excitement for the group, but things change when its leader, Mack (Gina Rodriguez), a sport-obsessed journalist, yearns for something more genuine.
Mack nurtures a desire for a serious relationship, particularly with Nick (Tom Ellis), a famous war journalist she was formerly involved with. Despite the skepticism of her friends, especially the more pragmatic Adam (Damon Wayans Jr.), Mack turns her attention towards steering their old fling into a serious romance using a play like never before. This leads to an almost comedic spy-like hunt filled with headsets, disguises and conspiring.
"Players" fumbles particularly in making the Nick/Mack pairing compelling for viewers who keenly spot that Adam seems more suited for her. As her childhood friend and the voice of reason, Adam’s character adds a layer of relatability and connection that Nick seems to lack. Besides, the film doesn’t particularly convince its audience of her severe admiration of Nick, except for his professional accomplishments. This stretches the plot’s credibility, especially considering the somewhat unrealistic depiction of their journalistic profession.
Nonetheless, "Players" has its moments of fun and laughter, particularly brought alive by the ensemble cast's on-screen chemistry. Rodriguez’s interpretation of Mack is remarkable. She glows as the strong-willed, yet vulnerable Mack, a rare combo for female leads in romantic comedies. Other standouts include Liza Koshy, whose lively portrayal of Ashley, a newspaper assistant who revels in the exciting escapades, keeps the comedy alive. Damon Wayans Jr's earnest portrayal of Adam adds another layer to the narrative.
What "Players" misses in romantic promise, it makes up for in its comedic plot elements. The friendly banter, slapstick shenanigans, and spontaneous hilarity offer engaging entertainment alongside the plot’s romantic struggles. The charm in "Players" shines through the interpersonal dynamics of the group. However, the disjointed storyline, and a questionable portrayal of newspaper journalism undermine the film's credibility. Just as sometimes a play can't turn into a stable relationship,a fun-filled premise alone can't guarantee a completely satisfying rom-com. By the end, "Players" tickets a sense of potential left unfulfilled, a feeling of having been played rather than being part of the play.
