The new romantic comedy "The Idea of You", directed by Michael Showalter of "The Big Sick" fame, kicks off with an endearing, humorous encounter. The film focuses on Solene, played by the charming Anne Hathaway, who mistakes a trailer for a restroom during a Coachella. As an almost-40-year-old divorcee, Solene is involuntarily thrown into a youthful environment due to her ex-husband Daniel (Reid Scott) backing out of a plan to escort their teenage daughter Izzy (Ella Rubin) and her friends at Coachella. She finds herself out of her comfort zone amidst the exuberance and hullabaloo of the music festival.
Solene’s quest for a restroom brings her to cross paths with Hayes Campbell (Nicholas Galitzine), who happens to be the lead singer of Izzy's favorite band August Moon. The unexpected encounter leads to blithe banter, and the undeniable chemistry between the two kicks starts an unanticipated love story adapted from a Robinne Lee romance novel with the same title.
Solene, a divorced mother dwelling in Silver Lake, and Hayes embark upon a passionate affair. As she joins Hayes on his European tour, Solene grapples with her feelings for a man nearly 20 years her junior and the fierce criticisms from his fervid fan base. She is also faced with self-reflection questions about her personal happiness and where her life is headed as she crosses the milestone of 40.
The film, resembling a delightful airy cotton candy, boasts of a transient enjoyability. The magnetic charm of the film mainly lies in the Oscar-winning Hathaway's portrayal of a woman torn between the familiar rhythms of her life and the thrill of a new relationship. The first half of the film, where Solene and Hayes are still getting to know each other, is particularly striking with a tangible attention to details giving their relationship a real and lively aura. Galitzine's realistic portrayal of a pop sensation and the palpable chemistry between Hathaway and Galitzine are commendable.
However, towards the latter part of the film, the narrative seems to lose grip and the depiction of their romance dwindles to ambiguous discussions about the prospects of their relationship. Nevertheless, "The Idea of You" operates as a lighthearted romantic comedy propelled by its charismatic lead actress and offers delights and lessons about self-discovery.
