The modern dating landscape can often feel overwhelming and disheartening, perhaps fostering a sense of nostalgia for an imagined romantic past. This sentiment is echoed in Jean Garnett’s piece, “The Trouble With Wanting Men,” which unpacks the challenges of unfulfilled desire and introduces the concept of “heterofatalism.” The conversation around these issues continues to gain traction, particularly as filmmakers attempt to navigate the complexities of modern relationships.
One such film is Sophie Brooks’ “Oh, Hi!”, which provides a fresh perspective on the trials of romantic connections. The narrative starts with the seemingly perfect couple, Iris (Molly Gordon) and Isaac (Logan Lerman), who embark on a getaway filled with laughter and playful banter. However, the film quickly shifts gears, highlighting the misunderstandings that can cloud relationships. Despite their chemistry, the tension escalates when Iris and Isaac confront their differing interpretations of exclusivity after four months of dating.
In a twist, Iris finds herself resorting to extreme measures—keeping Isaac restrained—while they navigate their feelings and miscommunications. This absurd premise leads to a humorous reflection on the stereotypes often associated with gender roles in heterosexual relationships. Through Iris’s relatable struggles and the misguided belief that vulnerability will foster understanding, the film explores the broader anxieties faced in contemporary dating.
Though some elements veer into the comical, especially with the introduction of Iris’ friends reacting to their predicament, Gordon’s performance maintains a grounding effect. It allows the audience to empathize with the characters, despite their flaws and misunderstandings. “Oh, Hi!” ultimately invites viewers to laugh at the chaos of dating while tackling the serious underlying issues many face today.
This film serves as a reminder that even in the midst of turbulence in the dating world, there can be lighthearted moments that resonate and offer hope for connection. As “Oh, Hi!” opens in theaters, it encourages both laughter and contemplation on the complexities of love and commitment. If nothing else, it demonstrates that we can always find humor in life’s most challenging situations.