Review by dlat-11525

Five Blind Dates is a beautiful, intelligent and uplifting romantic comedy that will have wide appeal. The obvious layer is comedic with many original jokes ranging from the literally slapstick to biting one-liners. You'll be bursting out loud at the most unlikely moments, but it never distracts from the poignant moments, such as at the wedding ceremony with a combination of cultures and luminous cinematography.

This movie is Lia's (Shuang Hu) journey and her story is easy to get into. She is vulnerable, yet heroic. She can play along, but also take responsibility. She begins as distant with her family, but not unreasonably. She faces choices rather than being swept along by fate. As an actress, Shuang Hu can make a spectacular scene or deliver an emotional punch with equal ease.

The standard tropes of romantic comedies are not needed for this film. Lia is not really choosing between five men, but responding to stereotypes of love. There is no grand romantic gesture, no makeover reveal or profound thesis on how love is ephemeral. Just by being practical and relatable, it tells us more about how hearts come together better than other romantic films.

All that being true, Five Blind Dates is fast-paced, original and entertaining - more smiles than tears. Highly recommended for anyone at any stage of their romantic journey.