‘Players’ Review: Netflix romcom delivers fast-paced and low-stakes fun, staying true to genre
Spoilers for 'Players' on Netflix
LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA: ‘Players’, directed by Trish Sie, has officially dropped on Netflix and if you haven’t watched it yet, now might be the perfect time to do so.
If you were expecting solid dramatic comedy and loads of sex, you might have to think again, because ‘Players’ goes way beyond that. The film also features sweet romance and great friendship, even if it is a bit predictable.
Starring Tom Ellis, Gina Rodriguez, Liza Koshy, Damon Wayans Jr, Joel Courtney, and Marin Hinkle, the film is an old-fashioned romantic comedy where almost everything is predictable.
Gina Rodriguez and Tom Ellis share glaring chemistry in 'Players'
During the first half of the movie, the captivating chemistry between Gina Rodriguez and Tom Ellis feels authentic.
Rodriguez takes on the pivotal role of sportswriter Mack who knows all the right moves to land hookups. Her portrayal of a carefree woman dealing with the realities of modern dating and love is nuanced.
Rodriguez delivers a top-notch performance as Mack, continuously bringing wit and allure to life. Her acting is what makes this romantic comedy memorable.
Ellis takes on the role of handsome British war correspondent Nick, Mack’s love interest. Mack devises a perfect plan for a one-night stand with Nick but unexpectedly falls head over heels for him.
The pairing of Ellis and Rodriguez grab the limelight in the film. At some point, viewers will be able to feel the love between Mack and Nick. However, there’s a catch. They don’t end up together and break up before the climax.
Mack’s charisma radiates throughout the film, instantly making her both appealing and approachable. Her personality and games captivate the viewers from start to finish.
Unmissable friendship moments in ‘Players’
‘Players’ is filled with great friendship moments to mesmerize the viewers. Mack has no female friends but her male friends help her to win Nick’s love and attention.
The appeal of following adults in their 30s as they navigate love, friendship, and careers is undeniable.
The film stays true to the rom-com genre, engaging in fast-paced and low-stakes fun. Few scenes are filled with punchlines, sarcasm, and physical comedy.
Best friends to lovers, 'Players' is a classic romantic trope
Damon Wayans Jr and Gina Rodriguez make the most sense in the film. Damon Wayans Jr takes on the pivotal role of Adam, Mack’s best friend. Scenes shared between them are pure rom-com magic.
Sie’s direction in the last scene is pure magic. Viewers can feel the love between Adam and Mack towards the end. Sie added the classic romantic trope in the scene that makes the movie breezy and works in its favor.
In conclusion, the film succeeds in eliciting laughter, prioritizing humor and romance over lavish production values. For rom-com lovers, the movie is worth watching.
'Players' is currently streaming on Netflix.