'Find Me Falling' Review: Low on romance quotient, Netflix film relies on visual charm and soulful music
Contains spoilers for 'Find Me Falling'
LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA: Set in the picturesque backdrop of Cyprus, Netflix's latest release 'Find Me Falling' is a breezy 90-minute escape from our bustling lives into a laid-back, sun-soaked paradise.
Harry Connick Jr plays John Allman, an aging rock star who relocates from New York to Cyprus to retreat in solitude.
He buys a cute house on a cliff, which turns out to be the island's popular suicide spot. As John's past catches up with him, a series of heartfelt and humorous encounters follow.
Harry Connick Jr and Agni Scott fail at brewing a romantic chemistry in 'Find Me Falling'
The film's central plot is John's rekindled romance with Sia, who once served as an inspiration behind his chart-topping hit 'Girl on the Beach'.
Their reunion is initially awkward but it soon reignites the spark between them. Sadly, their romantic chemistry feels underdeveloped.
The narrative doesn't give even a single flashback into their past. Instead, Sia delivers a monologue to let viewers know what happened between both and what decisions led them to the present day.
The lack of flashbacks and detailed exploration of their younger versions may not generate an emotional connection with the audience.
Even in the present-day scenario, the makers don't emphasize their chemistry enough, making it hard to believe that they are soulmates and the only love of each other's life.
'Find Me Falling' serves great music and cultural references
One of the movie’s strengths lies in its cinematography with its charming depiction of Cypriot culture.
Director Stelana Kliris and Director of Photography Stephan Metzner make excellent use of the island's stunning landscapes, from its crystal blue waters to its vibrant street markets.
The songs in the film, especially the title track that John and Melina sing for Sia under her balcony, are truly mesmerizing.
'Find Me Falling' has its comic moments
Another aspect where the film deserves brownie points is its ability to infuse humor despite dealing with a dark theme like suicide.
The initial interaction between John and Captain Manoli is one of the notable scenes, followed by a scene when John's date night is spoiled with a shock of a lifetime.
Harry Connick Jr delivers a decent performance as the melancholic John while Agni Scott portrays Sia with quiet longing, but the chemistry between the leads is lukewarm at best.
Ali Fumiko Whitney, on the other hand, shines brightly as Melina, bringing energy and charm to her role. Her performance is a standout, and she effortlessly navigates the tonal shifts of the film.
'Find Me Falling' is a pleasant, if not particularly memorable, romantic comedy. If you ignore the clichés, it makes a decent one-time watch with your loved ones.
'Find Me Falling' is now streaming on Netflix