Sometimes life feels like it’s stuck on repeat, and The Map of Tiny Perfect Things takes that idea to a new level with a whimsical, heartwarming twist. This 2021 film, starring Kathryn Newton and Kyle Allen, is set in a small, unnamed American town and follows two teenagers trapped in a time loop. A blend of science fiction and romantic comedy, it offers a fresh take on the “time loop” genre, focusing on the beauty of the small moments in life rather than just breaking free from the cycle. The film’s youthful energy and gentle exploration of deep emotions make it stand out from others in the genre.
The story revolves around Mark, played by Kyle, who is stuck reliving the same day over and over. He’s become an expert at navigating this repetitive world, finding comfort in his daily routines. One day, he meets Margaret (Kathryn), who is also stuck in the same loop. Together, they embark on a mission to map out all the tiny perfect things happening around them — small but significant moments that make life beautiful. As they journey through these moments, they learn more about each other, themselves, and what it means to move forward in life. Without revealing too much, their growing connection and the secrets Margaret holds add emotional weight to what could have been a standard romantic comedy.
One standout aspect of the film is the chemistry between Kyle and Kathryn. They bring authenticity and charm to their roles, elevating the emotional stakes of the story. Kyle captures Mark’s boyish optimism and curiosity, while Kathryn’s portrayal of Margaret balances her character’s intelligence and guardedness. The dynamic between them feels organic, which is crucial in a story that depends so heavily on their relationship. A key scene where they discover a “perfect moment” involving a bird flying in slow motion highlights how well they play off each other, making even the mundane feel magical. Their performances ground the fantastical elements of the time loop in something deeply human and relatable.
The direction by Ian Samuels is understated but effective, allowing the film’s thematic depth to shine through without being overbearing. Rather than focusing on the mechanics of the time loop, the film zeroes in on the emotional lives of its characters, especially Margaret’s internal struggles. This decision helps the movie stand out from typical time-loop narratives, where the focus is often on escaping rather than understanding the loop. The pacing is relatively smooth, though the film occasionally lingers too long on its quieter moments. This gives the film a contemplative feel, but at times it slows down the momentum. However, Samuels keeps the tone light and optimistic, even when dealing with weighty themes like grief and acceptance, which makes the film approachable and enjoyable.
Visually, the film is charming without being flashy. Cinematographer Andrew Wehde uses a bright, warm color palette that enhances the film’s lighthearted tone. Many of the “perfect moments” are captured in slow motion, which adds a magical realism to the narrative. These moments — like a basketball hanging mid-air or a dog catching a frisbee — are small but impactful, reinforcing the film’s message about appreciating the simple joys of life. There’s also a clever use of repetition in the visuals to remind the audience of the time loop, but without making it feel tedious or monotonous. The town’s setting is generic enough to feel universal, allowing the audience to focus more on the characters’ journey than on the backdrop.
Musically, Tom Bromley’s score complements the film’s whimsical, introspective mood. The music never overwhelms the scenes, instead subtly enhancing the emotional beats. One standout track is during a pivotal montage of Mark and Margaret mapping out their “perfect things,” where the score swells just enough to make the moment feel significant without overshadowing the simplicity of what’s happening on screen. The film also makes use of some well-placed indie-pop songs that help underscore the youthful, carefree energy of its two leads. While the soundtrack doesn’t particularly stand out, it serves its purpose in maintaining the film’s overall tone.
Another notable aspect of the movie is its exploration of time and how it relates to personal growth. While the time loop initially seems like a tool for Mark and Margaret to avoid moving forward, it eventually becomes clear that the loop is less about repetition and more about reflection. Mark uses the time to indulge in his daily routine, but Margaret’s relationship with the loop is far more complex, driven by unresolved feelings that make the thought of moving forward terrifying. This thematic depth adds layers to what could have been a simple teen romance, making it a film that resonates with older audiences as well.
What makes The Map of Tiny Perfect Things unique is its focus on the idea that life is composed of small, beautiful moments that often go unnoticed. This message is reinforced throughout the film by Mark and Margaret’s quest to catalog all the tiny, perfect things they encounter, whether it’s a moment of kindness or a fleeting instance of natural beauty. The film encourages its audience to slow down and appreciate these moments, which is a refreshing contrast to the high-stakes, action-heavy nature of most time-loop films.
Overall, The Map of Tiny Perfect Things is a charming, thoughtful film that balances lighthearted romance with deeper emotional themes. The performances by Kyle and Kathryn carry the film, making their journey through the time loop feel both fun and meaningful. While the film doesn’t push any boundaries in terms of its visual or musical effects, its strength lies in its character-driven narrative and its heartfelt exploration of life’s small, perfect moments. If you’re looking for a film that’s as heartwarming as it is introspective, this one is worth a watch. It’s an uplifting reminder that sometimes the most important things in life are the ones we take for granted.
