Dear readers, have you ever watched a film where a vacation transforms the protagonist’s life in unexpected ways, rekindling their love for life—and perhaps someone else? *This* is exactly that kind of story.
The film introduces Owen, played by the ever-charming Liam Hemsworth. Owen is the kind of guy who doesn’t crave adventure. In fact, he’s rather comfortable in his well-structured, predictable routine. To him, travel is overrated; it doesn’t change who you are. As he puts it, "You don’t come back now—you’re still the same old you." Owen has a thriving career, and that’s enough for him. But being the supportive boyfriend, he agrees to join his girlfriend Lily, a rising star in the literary world, on a trip to Morocco. It’s far from his comfort zone, but love makes you do things, doesn’t it?
Enter Katherine played by Laura Derm, a frazzled yet determined writer, who’s just about had it with life. She’s played by a radiant yet harried leading lady who brings a raw vulnerability to the role. Katherine is trying to finish her novel, but her life has hit a serious rough patch. Fresh off a breakup with her cancer-surviving ex, kicked out of the home they once shared, she’s now in Marrakesh for a writers' retreat. To top it all off, her luggage is lost, and her hotel room’s faucet is on strike—because why wouldn’t it be? Every little thing that could go wrong *does*, making Katherine’s trip seem like the ultimate disaster.
As fate would have it, Owen and Katherine’s paths cross in the bustling markets of Marrakesh. Amid the vibrant colors, intoxicating scents, and chaotic charm of the Moroccan streets, they strike up a connection. Their initial conversations reveal more than just small talk—they bond over their frustrations, career challenges, and their very different views on life and travel. Owen’s pragmatism clashes with Katherine’s need for a fresh start, yet there’s undeniable chemistry simmering beneath the surface.
As the film unfolds, the question lingers: is this the beginning of a new romance, or simply a fleeting connection in a faraway land? The setting of Marrakesh, with its exotic beauty and vibrant culture, becomes more than just a backdrop—it’s a catalyst for change, forcing both characters to confront their fears, desires, and the walls they’ve built around themselves.
With charming performances and a plot that balances romance with personal growth, this film offers a heartwarming journey of self-discovery and second chances. It reminds us that sometimes, the most unexpected trips are the ones that teach us the most about life—and ourselves.
However, the plot feels rather basic and offers little that we haven't seen before. The well-worn themes—an age-gap romance between the protagonists and the idea of a life-changing holiday—are familiar to the point of being predictable.
The age gap between the characters, while notable, doesn’t add much depth or tension to the story nor is addressed in the movie. Instead of exploring the complexities such a dynamic could bring, it’s merely glossed over, making the relationship feel a bit superficial. As for the "vacation that changes everything" trope, it's executed in a way that feels overly familiar. While the stunning visuals of Marrakesh add vibrancy, the plot doesn’t use the setting to truly elevate the characters' transformation in a meaningful way.
Ultimately, while the film has moments of charm and picturesque scenery, it fails to break new ground, relying too heavily on clichés. For those who love light romances, it may still be an enjoyable watch, but for viewers seeking something fresh or innovative, it doesn’t offer much to set it apart from similar films in the genre.
Final Score- [5/10]
Reviewed by - Neerja Choudhuri
Follow @NeerjaCH on Twitter
Publisher at Midgard Times