Romantic comedies often play with familiar tropes, but What’s Your Number? brings its own unique flavor to the table. Starring Anna Faris and Chris Evans, this film unfolds in modern-day Boston, giving viewers a whimsical yet relatable setting. As a lighthearted romantic comedy, it delves into the quirks of relationships, offering humor, self-discovery, and a dash of chaos in a familiar urban backdrop. Released in 2011, the movie taps into the relatable panic of societal expectations while adding an absurd yet fun twist to the genre.
The film follows Ally Darling (played by Faris), who stumbles upon a magazine article that states women who’ve had more than 20 lovers are unlikely to find a husband. With this panic-inducing realization, Ally embarks on a mission to track down her exes, convinced that one of them must be “the one.” Teaming up with her charming and nonchalant neighbor, Colin Shea (Evans), who is good at tracking people down, Ally revisits her past relationships, leading to a rollercoaster of awkward encounters and realizations about love and self-worth. Along the way, she discovers that her obsession with numbers and her attempts to control her romantic destiny might be steering her away from genuine happiness.
Anna Faris shines as Ally, blending her signature comedic timing with vulnerability, making the character both ridiculous and endearing. Faris excels in physical comedy, and she pulls off Ally’s neurotic tendencies with a balance of energy and subtlety that keeps her relatable, even in the most absurd situations. Evans, playing Colin, provides an excellent foil to Faris’ frenetic energy. His laid-back, carefree persona contrasts beautifully with Ally’s overanalyzing nature. While Evans is known for his action roles, his ease in a romantic comedy setting is refreshing, and his chemistry with Faris is effortless. One scene that stands out involves the pair playing basketball—Faris’s exaggerated frustration and Evans’s relaxed demeanor encapsulate the dynamic that makes their relationship fun to watch without overwhelming the plot with unnecessary romantic tension.
The direction by Mark Mylod keeps the pace lively and brisk, as the story moves from one hilarious situation to another. He effectively captures the humor in Ally’s journey of self-discovery without making it feel overly forced. The editing plays a crucial role in maintaining the comedic timing, especially during the rapid-fire scenes where Ally meets her exes—each encounter is a punchline that doesn’t overstay its welcome, and the transitions keep the movie moving at a fun, lighthearted pace. Mylod also balances moments of introspection, allowing the characters to have genuine moments of reflection amid the chaos.
The costume design deserves a nod as well. Ally’s wardrobe reflects her shifting confidence throughout the film. Initially, her choices are safe, but as she starts embracing her true self, her style evolves, becoming more vibrant and unique. The film also uses its Boston setting effectively, with cinematography that captures both the charm of the city and the quirky escapades Ally finds herself in. While not a visually groundbreaking film, the cinematography helps ground the story in reality, highlighting the everyday while still allowing the absurdity of Ally’s situations to shine.
The musical score, though not overly memorable, does its job in setting the tone for the rom-com atmosphere. It’s light, breezy, and punctuates the comedic beats without being intrusive. The soundtrack, featuring a mix of pop tunes, complements the film’s playful vibe and enhances key moments, particularly during Ally’s more reflective scenes. It supports the flow of the movie, allowing emotions to rise and fall naturally with the rhythm of the story.
One of the film’s strengths lies in its ability to weave humor into real emotional stakes. While the premise may seem superficial on the surface—chasing numbers and worrying about societal pressures—there’s a deeper commentary on self-worth and the expectations we place on ourselves, especially regarding love and relationships. Ally’s journey is one that many can relate to, even if it’s exaggerated for comedic effect. She learns that happiness isn’t about fitting into a mold or checking off boxes but about being true to herself and embracing the imperfections that come with love.
However, the film does have its flaws. The story’s reliance on well-worn rom-com tropes makes it predictable at times. The parade of exes is more of a gimmick than a meaningful exploration of Ally’s past, and while these scenes are funny, they often feel disconnected from the film’s more emotional core. Some characters, especially the exes, are reduced to one-note caricatures, missing an opportunity for deeper character development. Additionally, the script occasionally veers into cliché territory, particularly with Ally’s self-doubt and the predictable romantic arc with Colin. While the chemistry between Faris and Evans is delightful, the film follows a familiar formula, and savvy viewers will likely see the ending coming a mile away.
Despite its predictable elements, the film’s charm lies in its lead performances and the genuine moments of humor it creates. Faris and Evans elevate the material, and their chemistry makes even the most formulaic scenes feel fresh. The film also offers a light critique of societal pressures, wrapped in humor and heart, reminding viewers that true love isn’t about numbers but about finding someone who sees you for who you are.
In the end, What’s Your Number? is a fun, feel-good romantic comedy that succeeds largely due to its leads and its ability to blend humor with a meaningful message. It’s a film that doesn’t take itself too seriously but still manages to touch on real issues of self-esteem, identity, and love. Fans of rom-coms will find plenty to enjoy, especially if they’re looking for something lighthearted with a few good laughs. It’s a perfect movie for a casual watch, and while it may not break new ground in the genre, it’s an enjoyable ride with memorable performances.
