In the fast-paced world of modern dating, “Dating and New York” feels like a breezy trip through the digital romance jungle. Directed by Jonah Feingold, this romantic comedy stars Jaboukie Young-White and Francesca Reale, set against the vibrant backdrop of New York City in the present day. This film plays into the typical rom-com genre with a quirky, fresh take on dating apps and the idea of casual love turning into something deeper.
The plot revolves around two millennials, Milo and Wendy, who meet on a dating app and form an unconventional bond. They decide to enter a “no strings attached” relationship after a one-night stand, which is supposed to be simple but, of course, ends up being anything but. The two navigate their feelings and the complications of casual relationships while living in a city that’s equally confusing and exhilarating. Their story is relatable for anyone who’s ever tried to avoid catching feelings, only to fall right into the romantic pitfalls they swore to avoid.
One of the film’s most interesting aspects is the performances. Jaboukie, playing the awkward but charming Milo, captures the essence of a modern-day romantic with a perfect blend of wit and vulnerability. His comedic timing is impeccable, bringing laughs in some of the most awkward moments. Francesca as Wendy complements him well, embodying a woman who’s trying to keep her cool in a relationship that was never supposed to get emotional. Both leads create a fun dynamic with natural chemistry that keeps their interactions engaging without feeling forced.
Direction by Jonah Feingold is worth noting for how he handles the tricky balance of rom-com cliché and originality. Feingold manages to infuse enough freshness into familiar tropes by giving the film a self-aware charm. The film pokes fun at itself and the dating app culture, making it lighthearted and entertaining, but also making the characters’ journey feel genuine. While the narrative might not be groundbreaking, the fun is in how it’s presented.
The cinematography plays a crucial role in giving the film its unique character. The way New York is captured feels both magical and grounded, with bright cityscapes juxtaposed with more intimate, cozy scenes. The city feels like an extension of the characters’ emotional states — lively when they’re excited about new love and subdued when the relationship turns more introspective. This balance enhances the visual storytelling, offering viewers a vibrant, yet relatable atmosphere.
The film also makes good use of its soundtrack, featuring a blend of modern indie tracks that match the tone of the movie. The music enhances key moments without being overly distracting, keeping the focus on the characters’ evolving relationship. The sound design and score feel understated but effective, helping to underscore the emotional beats of the film.
One minor drawback of “Dating and New York” is its reliance on rom-com clichés. While it tries to refresh the genre, some elements feel predictable, especially as it follows the familiar beats of friends-with-benefits-turn-lovers. However, the film’s charm and humor keep it from feeling too formulaic. The quick-witted dialogue and sharp writing keep the audience invested in the journey, even if the destination is somewhat expected.
In conclusion, “Dating and New York” is a lighthearted romantic comedy that thrives on its humor and relatability. It’s a film that doesn’t take itself too seriously and leans into the awkwardness and unpredictability of modern relationships. While the film doesn’t break new ground in terms of storytelling, it offers a fun, enjoyable ride for those who appreciate a good rom-com. If you’re a fan of romantic comedies with a modern twist and enjoy films that explore the messiness of dating in the digital age, this one is worth a watch.
