'The Right Girl' (2015)
Opening thoughts: Have always had a thing for good premises, which is one of two most common reasons for seeing a film, television programme and such. The other being good, talented casts and there are plenty of films out there that have that. Both the good concepts and good casts aspects have wildly varied in success in film and television, and that is including films from the likes of Hallmark, Lifetime and UPTV. And also including recently, having seen some frustrating wastes of potential.
Luckily, 'The Right Girl' was not one of those wastes of potential. While it didn't start out that way, it was for me actually one of the films that did meet and exceed reasonably high expectations (due to really liking the concept). As far as recently seen Hallmark, Lifetime, UPTV-like films go, 'The Right Girl' is among the better films. Like others, there was the temptation to turn it off, but as someone who makes a big effort in giving all films a fair chance and not bragging about only lasting less than half an hour (which is the equivalent of not watching the film etc in my view) this viewer did stick with it and it was worth it.
Bad things: As said, 'The Right Girl' does not start off great. Actually thought the first act was pretty weak, with some very awkward and over corny dialogue and a female lead character that was so difficult to like with being so excessively nasty and rude. To the extent that there was real doubt as to whether she would have any form of character growth.
Did think too that the ending was too telegraphed too easily and too early and in a way too pat, especially with the overwrought conflict drama that came before it.
Good things: On the other hand, this viewer is glad about sticking with 'The Right Girl' after its shaky start, because everything that happened in between was quite good. Anna Hutchison and Jonathan Patrick Moore are very likeable leads and thankfully Hutchison's character does grow significantly, with nothing rushed about how she changes and evolves. Moore has the infinitely more likeable character and plays him very charmingly. Their chemistry is very easy going and genuine. Gail O'Grady steals every scene and is a funny breath of fresh air.
Furthermore, the script flows well from the first half an hour onward and is suitably light hearted while not being cheesy or too schmaltzy. The story, even with the predictability, has a nice energy and is heart-warming, wisely not taking itself too seriously without going too far on any ridiculousness. The characters are more than typical genre cliches and generally endear, with only reservations with Hutchison's character in the first act. The film looks nice, particularly the scenery, and the music doesn't intrude or feel too much.
Concluding thoughts: Concluding, shaky start but gets infinitely better if given a chance.
7/10.
