Long Shot Review: Finally, a Rom-Com I can Stomach
- Gabby Oliver
- May 9, 2019
- 2 min read
Updated: May 17, 2019
Finally, after so long, a rom-com has arrived that doesn't make me want to barf. And if you think I'm being mean, watch any rom-com from the past five years. I'll be awaiting your apology.
Long Shot follows the story of Secretary of State Charlotte Field (played by Charlize Theron) who hires Fred Flarsky (played by Seth Rogen), a recently unemployed journalist, to be her speechwriter while she begins her plans to run for President. The film features humor, love, and many jabs at Fox News and how men perceive women in power.
Fred and Charlotte reconnect after not seeing each other for years while at a wildlife fundraiser (featuring an awesome performance by Boyz II Men). Fred is the casual, sloppy, awkward dude and Charlotte is the graceful, intelligent, powerful, put-together woman. By this point, we have already established Fred's character as a tell-all journalist with high moral principles after the hilarious intro of him undercover at a Nazi hideout. His ethical principles play throughout the entire film which is what I loved so much about this movie. It wasn't just Seth Rogen being "Seth Rogen". Yes, he was awkward, goofy and had drugs on him on more than one occasion, but he also had a more personable, soft, serious side. I want to see Seth Rogen in more serious films because he definitely has the talent and heart for it.
The film reveals the limits of being a politician and how image is everything, especially when you're a woman. Many advised Charlotte not to be romantic with Fred as he would cost her the election. Instead, she had to flirt with the Prime Minister of Canada, a more "suitable" love interest, to appease the public and protect her reputation. Her schedule, her routine, her personal life, everything was controlled to ensure her spot in the oval office.
I also love the "female power" theme this film brought. Charlotte was a queen and despised the old white men that constantly tried to undercut her success. Unlike other comedies, Charlotte isn't just there for decoration or something to look at. Her character drives the story, which wouldn't be the same without her.
Long Shot wasn't too cheesy, the jokes were funny and the connection felt real. Could you ask for anything more in a rom-com? As someone who is really picky about rom-coms, I place my stamp of approval on this one.
You can watch the trailer for Long Shot, in theaters now, here:
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