Peneflix MOVIE REVIEWS BY PENEFLIX
Expecting saccharine sentimentality, mawkish, cloying, syrupy manipulation; surprisingly, those maudlin expectations were dashed by Blake Lively’s (producer) stratospheric performance as “Lily Blossom Bloom” complemented by Justin Baldoni’s (director) equally high-volume depiction of neurosurgeon “Ryle Kincaid”. Both actors, majorly invested in the creation of the 2016 novel by Colleen Hoover: abusive, marital, familial relationships and their lasting effects on their progeny.
Unfamiliar with the book but like most audiences, the relatable scenario checks the obvious, disturbing boxes. I felt the embryonic synchronicity between Lily and Ryle was flawlessly executed; blatant negativity, subtly heightens as the two become close. Solid performances by Brandon Sklenar as “Atlas”, Lily’s first love and Jenny Slate, “Allysa”, Ryle’s sister, are superb.
In need of pruning, Lily’s naivety is overblown, but she is the essence of a 60’s flower-child and the proprietor of “Lily Bloom’s”, a “Holly Golightly” in the floral market.
“A flower does not use words to announce its arrival to the world; it just blooms” and “Ends With Us”.
THREE STARS!!!
Peneflix
