Yes, We're Open

Yes, We're Open is a romantic comedy directed by Richard Wong and released in 2012. It stars Lynn Chen, Parry Shen, and Sheetal Sheth in lead roles. The film explores the challenges faced by modern-day couples in their relationships and careers.

The story revolves around Luke (Parry Shen) and Sylvia (Lynn Chen), a couple that has been together for many years. The duo runs a successful online sex-toy store, but struggles to maintain their passion for each other. Unable to shake the monotonous pattern of their daily lives, they decide to have an open relationship to both reignite their passion and explore their personal desires. However, things quickly get complicated as Luke’s new interests in dating other women threatens to tear apart their relationship.

As they try to navigate through the waters of modern relationships, they meet Kiera (Sheetal Sheth), a mutual friend who is going through a similar phase. Kiera is a struggling actress who keeps getting rejected for roles due to her ethnicity. She is also in a dead-end relationship with a man who does not take her career aspirations seriously. The three friends bond over their shared problems, making each other realise that it’s important to pursue their passions rather than settling for a dull life.

The movie uses humour to deal with the issues of sexuality, intimacy, and career. The comedy is light-hearted and makes viewers laugh out loud, while also introducing a mature perspective on relationships. It also delves into deeper issues like social stigma, inequality, and sexism in the entertainment industry. The film is set in San Francisco, and the beautifully shot visuals of the city serve as a backdrop to the story.

The acting is another highlight of the film. Lynn Chen delivers a nuanced performance as Sylvia, portraying her character’s frustrations with the monotony of her relationship and her struggle to balance her business with her personal life. Parry Shen’s portrayal of Luke also stands out, as his character undergoes a transformation from being an insecure and hesitant partner to someone who embraces his desires and is willing to take risks. Sheetal Sheth is fantastic as Kiera, bringing depth to her character’s inner conflicts and emotional turmoil.

The movie’s soundtrack is impressive, with songs that fit the light and breezy tone of the film. The background score is aptly used to enhance the emotional moments and adds to the overall experience.

While the movie is entertaining, it’s not without its flaws. Some viewers may find the plot predictable, and the characters’ actions may seem too idealized or unrealistic. The film also doesn’t explore the nuances of open relationships in-depth, making it an oversimplified representation of a complex topic.

Overall, Yes, We're Open is an enjoyable and heart-warming film that explores the complexities of modern-day relationships while also providing commentary on societal issues. It’s a must-watch for those who enjoy romantic comedies and are looking for something fresh, funny, and socially relevant.