The Idea of You Movie Review: Anne Hathaway Uplifts This Sweet But Predictable 'May December' Romantic Drama (LatestLY Exclusive)

The Idea of You Movie Review: Two years ago, Owen Wilson portrayed a commoner who unexpectedly ties the knot with a popstar while attending a concert for his daughter in Marry Me. Now, in The Idea of You, Anne Hathaway encounters and falls in love with a popstar while attending Coachella with her daughter. If in Notting Hill, Hugh Grant played a bookseller who finds himself unbelievably in love with a celebrity who unexpectedly arrives at his doorstep, then in The Idea of You, Hathaway is a 40-year-old art dealer who finds a celebrity at her doorstep. Only in her case, there is also this May-December factor creating further complications. Not to mention, she also has to face toxic online fandoms. Anne Hathaway Wows in a Bold Red Versace Gown at ‘The Idea of You’ Premiere in New York City (View Pics and Video).

Solene (Anne Hathaway) takes her teenage daughter Izzy (Ella Rubin) and her friends to Coachella to attend the concert of a popular boyband, August Moon. While looking for a bathroom, she accidentally ends up in the trailer of the lead singer of the band, Hayes Campbell (Nicholas Galitzine). They instantly connect and feel attraction for each other. Solene doesn't think much of this attraction until Hayes lands at her art gallery wanting to spend more time with her.

Watch the Trailer of The Idea of You:

Although she was reluctant at first, soon enough Solene gives in to her feelings for him, and they engage in a relationship while he tours Europe with his band. Of course, dating a public figure isn't an easy task, especially if he is 16 years younger, as Solene finds out when their pictures go viral.

The Idea of You is based on a novel by Robinne Lee and directed by Michael Showalter, known for his work on the delightful The Big Sick. Any film featuring Anne Hathaway is bound to be worth watching – even Ocean's 8 – as the actress effortlessly enhances any viewing experience with her radiant smile and commanding presence, capable of owning any dramatic scene. Her chemistry with Nicholas Galitzine is outstanding, and he also impresses particularly in the movie's emotionally charged moments, such as the couple's first argument during their holiday when Hayes questions Solene about her feelings of shame.

It's the compelling performances and the perennial fascination with what it's like to date a celebrity that propel The Idea of You forward. However, if you dissect it, the film becomes as predictable as expected. The dramatic beats unfold predictably, conflicts resolve before resurfacing, and the May-December dynamic rears its head once more. While this allows Hathaway to showcase her character's emotional vulnerability, at times, one wonders why they didn't consider the consequences from the outset. Did they not anticipate paparazzi snapping photos during public displays of affection? Or foresee the tabloids and fervent fans wreaking havoc on their social lives, and even those of their family members?

But hey, Love is blind, and in the throes of passion, worldly concerns fade into insignificance before reality hits hard. As Solene's friend aptly observes, the world begrudges a happy woman. Yet, in Solene's case, it seems she may even resent her own happiness with Hayes. And after a point, their will-they, won't-they equation keeps getting tiring even if you get to understand why Solene is hesitant about the relationship. Anne Hathaway Gets Teary-Eyed at The Idea of You SXSW Premiere, Says, ‘I Feel Like I Keep Blooming’ (Watch Video).

The Idea of You also highlights the double standards regarding age in relationships, where men dating younger women are often accepted, while women dating younger men face scrutiny and derogatory labels like "cougar", perpetuated even by the media. It's refreshing to see publications like TMZ and Perez Hilton openly called out in the movie for their role in perpetuating such biases in real life.

Final Thoughts on Idea of You

All said and done, The Idea of You remains a watchable romantic drama, boosted by Anne Hathaway and Nicholas Galitzine. It feels dreamy, it feels steamy and it also tugs at your heart, but in the end, the film also brings nothing new to the table, except reminding Anne Hathaway rules and online trolls suck. The Idea of You is streaming on Prime Video.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on May 02, 2024 07:58 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).