Happy Anniversary

Happy Anniversary opens with a scenario that might seem too familiar to many couples: after being in a relationship for a significant period of time, doubt and discontent creep in, casting a shadow on what was once a story of passion and excitement. This relatable premise beautifully cascades into a narrative that’s soaked in countless moments of joy, sorrow, love, and conflict, encapsulating the complexities of a long-term relationship.

In their third year together, Sam (played by Ben Schwartz) and Mollie (played by Noël Wells) are confronted with the question: is their relationship working? Their three-year anniversary seems less like a celebration of their love, and more like an examination of whether they are meant for each other. This predicament triggers a day-long rumination on their past, as they attempt to reconcile their experiences and emotions, deep-diving into an introspective scrutiny of their romantic journey.

The movie’s narrative beautifully oscillates between the present and the past. As Sam and Mollie navigate through their day in the present, questioning their feelings and futures, the narrative frequently shifts to the past, revealing vignettes of their lives together since the day they first met. These flashbacks offer heartwarming and tender snippets of their journey, moments of profound connection, shared dreams, endearing quirks, as well as trials and tribulations that shake their union. These evocative glimpses of then and now highlight how their relationship has evolved over time, adding depth and nuance to the storyline.

Ben Schwartz and Noël Wells deliver stellar performances as Sam and Mollie. Schwartz, popularly known for his comedic roles, surprisingly slips into the character of Sam with depth and poignancy, showcasing his range as an actor. Wells, on the other hand, offers a powerful portrayal of Mollie, exuding an intriguing mix of vulnerability, strength, and wittiness. Their chemistry on screen is electric and authentic, stubbornly pulling us into their world.

Supporting characters, including friends and family, add another layer of contrast and context to the central relationship. They provide outside perspectives and anecdotes about love and life, acting as sounding boards for the couple's dilemmas. Even in the confines of the film’s limited settings, director Jared Stern explores emotional landscapes through lively dialogue, nuanced performances, and skillful storytelling.

Happy Anniversary is notable for its refreshingly candid and often humorous take on the challenges of modern-day relationships. The film represents a stark deviation from the clichéd romantic comedies, as it refuses to paint an unrealistic picture of 'happily-ever-after.' Instead, it explores the gray areas of love, the roller-coaster ride of emotions, and the compromises and efforts necessary for sustaining a relationship. The movie exposes the audience to the trials and tribulations of love that is caught between fading nostalgia and the harsh realities of the present day.

The film’s cinematic aesthetics beautifully complement the narrative. The art direction and color palate provide a vivid canvas that reflects the changing emotions and stages of the central couple's relationship. The alternation between flashback and present scenes is smoothly executed, enhancing the storytelling rather than disturbing the narrative flow.

In its essence, Happy Anniversary is an honest exploration of love in its many forms and phases. It is the story of a couple grappling with a critical question concerning their love: should they stick together because of their shared past, or split because of their uncertain future?

Despite the heavier themes, the movie maintains a light-hearted tone, sprinkled with moments of laugh-out-loud humor. These instances of levity provide a refreshing counterbalance to the introspective and often intense relationship examinations, making the film an entertaining and thoughtful viewing experience.

The soundtrack of the film further adds to the viewer's experience, with songs perfectly encapsulating the ups and downs of Sam and Mollie's journey.

Happy Anniversary is a heartfelt, relatable film that will appeal to anyone who's ever been in love or faced uncertainties in their relationships. Its portrayal of a couple questioning whether or not to continue their journey together serves as a poignant reminder that love, in all its beauty and complexity, is never easy.