Friendship or romance—how often have we questioned the delicate line between the two? In What If, a romantic comedy set against the bustling and picturesque backdrop of Toronto, this question takes center stage. Starring Daniel Radcliffe and Zoe Kazan, the film revolves around modern-day relationships, uncertainty, and the complications that come with navigating feelings for someone who may or may not be available. As a rom-com, it explores the grey area of friendships that hover on the brink of love, taking the audience on a charming, witty, and at times painfully real journey.
The story follows Wallace (played by Radcliffe), a med school dropout who has recently gone through a rough breakup. He meets Chantry (played by Kazan), an animator with a quirky personality, at a party, and the two quickly develop an easy rapport. The catch? Chantry already has a serious boyfriend, Ben (played by Rafe Spall). Despite Wallace’s instant attraction to her, they decide to remain “just friends.” As Wallace and Chantry grow closer, the tension between their friendship and Wallace’s deeper feelings starts to surface. The story revolves around this dilemma: how long can they keep up the pretense of friendship, and can true love grow from such a confusing place?
Radcliffe, known primarily for his role as Harry Potter, steps out of that shadow convincingly in What If, showing his versatility as a leading man in romantic comedies. His portrayal of Wallace is both endearing and grounded, embodying the kind of awkwardness and hesitation that feels genuinely relatable in a world where not every romantic story is clear-cut. His deadpan humor, combined with his vulnerability, makes Wallace easy to root for, especially in moments where his frustrations with his unreciprocated feelings surface. Zoe Kazan, playing the effervescent yet complex Chantry, adds layers to a character who might otherwise come off as the stereotypical manic pixie dream girl. Her character has depth, balancing lighthearted charm with emotional realism as she navigates her own complicated feelings toward Wallace. The chemistry between Radcliffe and Kazan feels natural, which makes the romantic tension believable without feeling forced.
One standout aspect of the film is its direction by Michael Dowse. Rather than focusing solely on the comedic elements, Dowse allows for a balance between humor and heartfelt moments, creating a film that feels emotionally sincere. The pacing is steady, and the scenes between Wallace and Chantry are given enough room to breathe, allowing their relationship to develop organically. Dowse captures the hesitance and awkwardness of early friendship-turned-romance, as well as the moments of intense connection that drive the story forward. His direction ensures that the film doesn’t fall into the trap of predictable romantic comedy beats, instead giving the characters room to grapple with their feelings in a way that feels authentic to life.
The cinematography of What If also deserves a mention. Toronto is used not just as a backdrop but as an integral part of the film’s mood. The cinematography by Rogier Stoffers captures the city’s vibrant, artsy spirit through its quaint coffee shops, leafy parks, and indie venues, giving the film a warm, lived-in feel. This visual intimacy mirrors the emotional intimacy between Wallace and Chantry, with the use of soft lighting and close-up shots highlighting their growing bond. There’s also a whimsical element in the animation sequences that pop up intermittently—echoing Chantry’s profession and serving as a visual metaphor for her inner thoughts. These animated bits, though minimal, add a creative flair to the movie, making it stand out stylistically from other romantic comedies.
In terms of music, the soundtrack complements the film’s tone perfectly. Featuring a mix of indie tracks, it accentuates the lighthearted moments while adding emotional weight to more serious scenes. The music doesn’t overpower the narrative but rather supports it, allowing the emotional beats to land effectively. The score is subtle, letting the characters’ emotions shine through without becoming melodramatic. It’s refreshing in a rom-com to have a soundtrack that doesn’t dictate the mood but instead enhances it.
Costume design and set decoration are understated yet effective. The characters, particularly Wallace and Chantry, are dressed in a way that feels authentic to their personalities. Wallace’s wardrobe is simple and understated, reflecting his down-to-earth, slightly jaded outlook on life. Chantry’s outfits, on the other hand, are quirky and artsy, matching her free-spirited nature. The design choices make the characters feel relatable, as if they could be people you know in your own life.
One of the strengths of the movie lies in its witty script, penned by Elan Mastai. The dialogue feels sharp, quick, and, most importantly, real. The film’s humor is never heavy-handed or reliant on slapstick, but rather emerges naturally from the characters’ interactions and banter. The conversations between Wallace and Chantry, in particular, are filled with clever quips and subtle humor that feels spontaneous rather than scripted. This gives the movie a conversational, almost improvisational feel, which adds to its authenticity.
However, while the film is charming, it doesn’t entirely escape the pitfalls of its genre. The third act, in particular, follows a more predictable path, as the tension between Wallace and Chantry builds to an inevitable climax. While the characters’ journey is engaging, the resolution feels somewhat rushed and tidy, adhering to the classic rom-com formula. Additionally, some of the supporting characters, like Wallace’s best friend Allan (played by Adam Driver) and his girlfriend Nicole (played by Mackenzie Davis), while hilarious and well-acted, feel underdeveloped, existing mainly for comic relief rather than adding substantial depth to the plot.
Overall, What If succeeds as a refreshing and heartfelt take on the classic rom-com formula. Its strength lies in its authenticity, driven by strong performances from Radcliffe and Kazan, sharp dialogue, and a sense of genuine emotional depth. While it may not break new ground in terms of plot, its execution feels fresh, and the chemistry between its leads makes the film worth watching. For those looking for a romantic comedy that balances humor with real emotional stakes, this movie delivers a charming and memorable experience.
If you enjoy films that explore the messy, complicated realities of love and friendship, then What If is a must-watch. It offers the perfect mix of wit, heart, and romance, wrapped in an authentic, down-to-earth package. The film doesn’t aim to redefine the genre, but it certainly stands out for its sincerity and its well-drawn, lovable characters.
