Me Him Her

Me Him Her is a quirky, modern romantic comedy directed by Max Landis and released in 2015. Starring Dustin Milligan, Luke Bracey, and Emily Meade, the film explores themes like friendship, identity, love, and the journey of self-discovery.

The unique narrative is woven around three central characters - the ambitious Cory, the handsome yet confused Brendan, and the spontaneous Gabbi. The film kicks off in Los Angeles, which is not only a key location but almost serves as a character itself; a bustling and glitzy city full of dreams, promises, and the occasional struggle.

Dustin Milligan plays Cory, a slightly neurotic twenty-something venturing to LA from his placid life in the suburbs to help his long-time friend Brendan, portrayed by Luke Bracey, navigate through a personal crisis. Cory, who is ambitious, bright, and humorous, often finds himself lost in a sea of chaos in his own life, struggling to finish his novel while dealing with pressures from his job at a tech company.

In the film, Luke Bracey takes on the role of Brendan, a successful actor on a famous TV show who is wrestling with his hidden sexuality. Brendan's character is shown to be charming and attractive, but underneath he is tormented by the fear of losing his image and career amid the ever-watchful eyes of Hollywood.

On the other side of the story, Emily Meade plays Gabbi, a young woman just coming out of a reactionary lesbian phase, and is now unsure of her own identity. As Gabbi tries to find herself, she enters into a whirlwind of a bond with Cory, pulling him into her chaotic and unpredictable life.

The film follows the intertwining paths of these three characters. Cory, who initially comes to LA to support Brendan, finds himself drawn into Gabbi's exciting yet uncertain world, complicating his life even more. Meanwhile, Brendan struggles to come to terms with who he is and what this means for his high-profile career.

As the three leads navigate their challenges, the film constantly plays with tropes from romantic comedies and buddy films. It possess a unique sense of eccentric humor, casual dialogues, and an irreverent but heartwarming style that keeps audiences engaged and entertained. The unpredictable nature of the film reflects the lived experiences of many millennials, making it relatable to this demographic.

Undoubtedly, the film presents a punchy and forward take on the traditional rom-com genre. Especially noteworthy is its representation of LGBTQ+ characters in a more complex and realistic light, rather than sticking to the stereotypes often depicted on screen. Though at times a theatrical exaggeration, these elements are what grant unique charm and a special flavor to the big-hearted comedy-drama that Me Him Her becomes.

On top of its exploration of deep themes and its unconventional humor, the film also thrives on its portrayal of friendship. The chemistry between the characters is evident and adds depth to the narrative. The camaraderie between Cory and Brendan is particularly endearing, their bond firmly rooted in genuine care and concern for each other. The bond that develops between Cory and Gabbi, too, is complex, fluctuating, and meaningful.

Though billed as a comedy, Me Him Her has a sincere heart beating at its core, celebrating the powerful message of being true to one's identity despite societal pressures. Every character is on a journey to figure themselves out and do what is best for them, sometimes screwing up, sometimes making strides, but always learning.

Me Him Her, with its extraordinary storytelling style and engaging performances will appeal to not only fans of rom-coms but also viewers who appreciate nuanced characters and thought-provoking narratives. Its unapologetic take on young adulthood, coupled with its hilarious modern spin, makes this unconventional love-triangle a refreshing watch for those seeking a film that breaks the mold.