‘Happiness Is’ (2024) Netflix Movie Review - A Feel Good But Predictable Plot-Line

The story primarily revolves around two central characters: Princess and her best friend, Tumi. Princess's life looks perfect from the outside. She has a beautiful family—her husband and her daughter, Thandi—along with a seemingly flawless existence. But beneath this polished surface, the film reveals that things aren't as rosy as they seem. This contrast between appearance and reality forms the heart of the movie’s narrative. While the plot may feel familiar, with its predictable ups and downs, the film's strength lies in its portrayal of relationships and personal growth.

The occasion is Princess’s 40th birthday, and Tumi is determined to throw her a grand celebration. As the preparations for the party unfold, tensions arise, and the cracks in the Princess’s seemingly perfect life begin to show. Her ex-husband’s new girlfriend Nelly enters the party not knowing who Princess is. Princess was aware of the girlfriend but the fact that she would see her on her birthday getaway was least expected. This adds an extra layer of complexity and tension to the already emotionally charged situation.

The film takes its time exploring the relationships within the group, particularly the dynamic between Tumi and Princess. Sabelo, a friend who has romantic feelings for Tumi, also plays a significant role, but their connection feels one-sided—Sabelo is much more invested in the relationship than Tumi is.

While Happiness Is may not surprise audiences with its plot, it successfully captures the emotional struggles that lie behind appearances. It highlights how women in their 40s navigate friendships, love, and the pressure to appear "happy" even when life is far from perfect. The film’s themes of personal identity, emotional resilience, and the importance of female friendship make it a heartfelt watch, despite its predictable narrative. The performances of the lead actresses, particularly the chemistry between Princess and Tumi, help elevate this otherwise straightforward story, turning it into a relatable exploration of modern relationships.

The storyline remains straightforward, without any major twists, making it feel like a slice of everyday life. It's the kind of familiar drama we all experience and later laugh about because of its simplicity. This familiarity makes the film highly relatable, at times uncomfortably so, as it mirrors situations that could easily belong to someone you know. As the movie subtly suggests, many of our problems could be solved if we simply communicated more openly—a message that resonates throughout the narrative.

The film's fashion and wardrobe choices are undeniably on point, with each character’s outfit carefully curated to enhance their personality and elevate the film’s visual appeal. From sleek, modern styles to bold statement pieces, the costumes add a layer of sophistication that keeps viewers engaged on a superficial level. However, while the fashion is eye-catching and stylish, it doesn’t quite compensate for the lack of originality in the plot. The narrative feels too familiar, relying on well-worn tropes without offering any fresh perspectives or surprising twists. In the end, the film’s aesthetic charm can only do so much to cover up its predictable storyline. Despite the beautiful visuals, it falls short of delivering a truly memorable or groundbreaking experience.

Final Score- [5/10]
Reviewed by - Neerja Choudhuri
Follow @NeerjaCH on Twitter
Publisher at Midgard Times