Love Arrives: The Idea Of You
The Idea Of You Now Streaming Globally on Prime Video
Review by Joy Parris– Everyone raises an eyebrow when an older woman dates a younger man but it doesn’t seem to be such a big deal when an older man dates a younger woman. The usual commentary is she’s using him for his money so imagine now you have an older woman Solène, a 40-year-old single mom played (by Anne Hathaway) who starts dating Hayes Campbell,(Nicholas Galitzine) the young lead singer of Agust Moon a popular boy band. Their relationship becomes a platform for everyone to have an opinion most of it negative. It is a sad commentary about this era of social influence on people and their lives and worse when you are a celebrity or well-known person. Everything you do is up for scrutiny your relationship what you wear, the kind of food you eat all areas of your life under the public’s microscope.
Based on the novel by Robinne Lee, “The Idea of You,” directed by Michael Showalter, showcases this May-September romance against the backdrop of fame. Hathaway plays Solène Marchand, an art gallery owner, who has plans to go on a much-needed solo camping trip. Her 17-year-old daughter Izzy( (Ella Rubin), is excited to go to Coachella with her dad who bought them VIP tickets for her to see the boy band August Moon. Everybody’s packed and ready to go when her ex-husband Daniel (Reid Scott) arrives with his new wife explaining he has to go on a trip and asks Celine to take his place. Solène cancels her plans for a solo camping trip to take Izzy and her friends to the concert instead.
Once they arrive Izzy and her friends dash off in excitement leaving Solène to fend for herself. Needing to go the bathroom she finds a trailer to freshen up, which belongs to Hayes Campbell. He is smitten with her and invites her backstage to see the show. Though she is attracted to him- she tells him she could be his mother. But since this a romantic comedy you have to sit back and enjoy the fantasy.
The romance begins to blossom with trips abroad, and cozy dinners as the paparazzi follow their every move. Of course, it’s easy to guess what happens next photos get posted, an upset teenage daughter, an angry ex-husband, and the social media firestorm. Okay, so you’re probably saying Solène should have expected that, remember it’s a romantic rom-com so relax and enjoy and indulge in the fantasy.
Michael Showalter’s direction in “The Idea of You” perfectly blends emotional depth with the light-hearted elements typical of romantic comedies. He delves into the complexities of a relationship with a significant age gap, managing to keep the humor intact while addressing deeper, more poignant themes. His pacing allows the relationship to unfold naturally, making the interactions between the characters feel authentic and engaging. Showalter shines in his ability to elicit nuanced performances from his actors, particularly Anne Hathaway and Nicholas Galitzine, whose portrayals add depth and relatability to their characters.
He’s skilled at contrasting the characters’ public and private lives, adeptly handling scenes that showcase intimate moments amidst the chaos of celebrity and media scrutiny. This not only keeps the film entertaining but also adds a layer of commentary on how public perception can influence personal relationships.
Hayes, despite his fame, is shown as thoughtful and mature, recognizing the depth of his feelings for Solène. He not only enjoys the perks of his fame but also transcends it. He recognizes the allure of an older woman, but he can also fall in love with her. Their relationship defies the typical romantic comedy stereotypes, inviting the audience to enjoy the fantasy while reflecting on the societal norms that shape our views on love and relationships.
And listen to the Original Motion Picture Soundtrack (Deluxe Edition) exclusively on Amazon Music, which includes special, live renditions of “Taste,” “Got You,” “Guard Down,” and “Closer” by August Moon. The soundtrack is now available to stream on all major music platforms.
The Idea Of You Stars: Anne Hathaway, Nicholas Galitzine, Ella Rubin, Annie Mumolo, Reid Scott, Perry Mattfeld, Jordan Aaron Hall, Mathilda Gianopoulos, Raymond Cham Jr., Jaiden Anthony, Viktor White, Dakota Adan