Set It Up

Set It Up is a vastly entertaining and perpetually engaging romantic comedy film released in 2018. Directed by Claire Scanlon, the film boasts a stellar ensemble cast featuring Zoey Deutch, Glen Powell, and Lucy Liu. Set in the chrome and glass world of New York's corporate sector, Set It Up weaves an endearing tale of love, friendship, and workplace politics with a heaping serving of humor.

The film pivots around two assistants, Harper, played by Zoey Deutch, and Charlie, played by Glen Powell. Harper is a budding sports journalist working for a dictatorial and meticulous editor, Kirsten, portrayed by the charismatic Lucy Liu. On the other hand, Charlie is a right-hand man to the stubborn, demanding, and rich businessman Rick, played by Taye Diggs. Both assistants are burdened by excessive work demands, late-night schedules, and overbearing superiors.

Harper and Charlie's paths cross and they quickly realize that they share a common plight – they are overworked, underappreciated, and have no free time to pursue their passions or maintain a healthy social life. This shared experience sparks a bond between them, and as they become fast friends, they concoct a brilliant scheme to regain some semblance of work-life balance. Their tactical yet funny solution is simple; set their ruthless bosses up with each other in the hopes of earning some much-needed respite.

The execution of their plan is as hilarious as it is strategic, resulting in numerous delightfully awkward yet heartwarming moments. As they pull all sorts of tricks to bring their bosses together – they themselves start to discover commonalities and a connection they didn't anticipate. The storyline moves seamlessly from being outright comedic to poignantly emotional, embodying a genuine human connection.

Zoey Deutch delivers a standout performance, embodying Harper’s tenacity, vulnerability, and charm with ease. Her positive, ebullient energy is infectious, and she forms a dynamic, believable foil to Glen Powell's Charlie. Glen Powell is equally good, portraying the ambitious and desperate assistant with just the right blend of arrogance and vulnerability. The duo's chemistry is palpable throughout the film, and their interactions marked by gentle ribbing, shared frustrations and mutual camaraderie, captivate the audience.

Lucy Liu, in particular, deserves a special mention for her portrayal of the tough, successful editor Kirsten. She brings an unmatched charisma and intensity to the role, perfectly balancing strength and sensitivity. Her character is far from one-dimensional, and Liu's portrayal adds depth and complexity to Kirsten.

Set It Up is packed with workplace humor and romantic comedy tropes that could have felt tired if not for the script’s sharp wit and the cast's palpable on-screen chemistry. The narrative weaves romance and comedy seamlessly, ensuring continuous entertainment, and the characters are well-developed, possessing depth and relatability, despite their eccentricities. The film does not shy away from addressing the realities of working in a demanding corporate environment, but its discerning take is tempered with heart and humor.

The bright and vibrant palette of New York serves as an excellent backdrop to the film's events, with some scenes set in iconic locations around the city, reflective of the hustle and magnitude of the corporate world that Harper and Charlie navigate. Altogether, the cinematography enhances the storytelling, lending it an essential vibrancy and visual charm.

Music, too, plays a significant role in Set It Up, complementing the film's lively tone and uplifting spirit. The upbeat and catchy soundtrack is filled with pop and indie tracks, which enhance the story’s most triumphant and tender moments.

To sum it up, Set It Up is an unmissable romantic comedy for those seeking a light-hearted, joyous viewing experience. With its balanced mix of romance, comedy, and a slice of life approach, the film manages to catch the audience by surprise with its smart storytelling, nuanced performances, and a stimulating take on the age-old genre of romantic comedies. It's a film that leaves viewers with a significant dose of feel-good moments, plenty of laughter, and an undeniable fondness for its characters who courageously chase their dreams, flirt with love and friendship, and turn the mundane world of office politics into an entertaining and heartfelt ride.