Title: That Awkward Moment
Director: Tom Gormican
Starring: Zac Efron, Miles Teller, Michael B. Jordan, Imogen Poots, Mackenzie Davis, Jessica Lucas.
2014 is unleashing several films on the redemption of the Casanova prototype: apparently men are now yearning for romance. Tom Gormican makes his debut as writer and director of his first feature film (where he also has a cameo appearance) with a story that shows three best friends facing ‘That Awkward Moment’ in relationships where we’ve all been – when you have to decide “So…where is this going?”
The flick, per se, is cute and predictable as most romedies, but it isn’t devoid of inciting gushy-teary reactions. Zac Efron is probably the less engaging of the cast, but nevertheless he delivers a rather pleasing performance. Miles Teller and Michael B. Jordan prove to be enticing, witty, and amusing, just as female performers Mackenzie Davis and British, Imogen Poots.
‘That Awkward Moment’ is very subtle in giving a male perspective of the time when couples reach the point of no return, when they can move forward or let go. The story gives women a new perspective on relationships, with a realistic approach to what happens in New York’s dating scene. The rules that girls set for themselves. The night club seduction routine. And naturally the wondrous magic of the unexpected.
Romantic comedies are accustomed to a dramatic narrative where people can’t end up together the first time they meet, in fear that the romance may be sullied. But ‘That Awkward Moment’ shows how real life can deny all of this, drawing people together immediately, since they may have a strong connection, then grow apart for adversities and deal with the aftermath, and finally enjoy their happy ending.
Technical: B
Acting: B
Story: C
Overall: B-
Written by: Chiara Spagnoli Gabardi
