The last week was filled with rom-coms on Netflix, in the run-up to Valentine’s Day.
I have seen at least three such movies and more are on the way. Players is a new American flick that falls in the aforementioned genre.
A little under two hours, Netflix describes it as a raunchy creation. Here’s my review.
Players Synopsis
Mack, primarily a sports writer, and an expert hookup schemer on the sidelines, falls for one of her flings. In her quest to go for the ‘keeps’ and ditch ‘playing the field,’ her partners in crime hatch a plan.
But can she hone the transition?
Directed by Trish Sie, the movie stars Gina Rodriguez (Mack), Damon Wayans Jr. (Adam), Tom Ellis (Nick), Augustus Prew (Brannagan), Joel Courtney (Little), and others.
What Works for Players?
With the involvement of friends or a friend’s group, any idea becomes more sparkling than it is on paper. The same happens with Players.
A friendship squad, led by Mack, a sports writer, has its thing in scheming hookups, terming them as ‘plays.’
All four members alternatively get to choose an individual of their choice and the rest help him/her in getting the fling with infallible plans.
The dynamics totally change when the leader of the pack herself falls for a dashing man but all is not as simple as it looks.
Players is light and funny in the initial half an hour. You go on with the flow and get mesmerized by the authentically written conversations, delivered by an amazing set of actors.
The concept exudes light-heartedness. It nurtures joy by generating a naturally comforting environment.
Even post the early stages, this trait doesn’t wither away.
The camaraderie that should be present between friends is visible in the American film. With regards to the story, some might consider it a bumpy ride.
However, since we are talking about positives for now, it is pertinent to mention the buoyant approach by the makers.
Instead of going for a deep, more emotionally prudent tale, they opt for a fun-loving and whimsical plot, which helps you stay in the moment.
Moreover, the jovial screenplay is fast-paced. It never turns dull or bland, making it easier to finish Players in one sitting.
A notable quality of the film is its adroitness in shaping emotionally intimate dialogue between characters.
Despite being in the comedic zone, you are prone to pauses and reflections that are sentimental.
Lastly, Players has a soothing ending, which remains a high point.
And I keep saying there is nothing wrong with conventional endings as long as they are implemented refreshingly.
How are the Performances?
Gina Rodriguez plays Mack and sustains an aura of charm and eloquence. Her dialogue delivery is superb while the filmic allure in her demeanor is satisfying.
She uses her acting prowess to make Players a delectable watch. A flawless performer, Gina holds each frame of the movie with utter determination.
Damon Wayans Jr. appears as Adam in Players. His calm temperament suits the character perfectly and goes beyond the general visuals of typical ‘friends’ we are used to.
Tom Ellis manages to make a place for himself. As Nick, he is the man no girl would not want to be with. The actor fluently carries this trait for the whole of his part.
Augustus Prew’s funny one-liners and situational humor are worth mentioning again and again. He plays Brannagan in the movie and keeps on giggling you up.
What Doesn’t Work for Players?
The setup is quite pretentious and inorganic. Maybe, it would have been better had the makers gone for an unformulaic approach.
You are shown a set of characters doing their thing and the next day it’s bang! A more resilient pathway was the need of the hour, in my opinion.
Moreover, the storyline is sort of pastime. It treads on a linear path with everything falling into place after very little effort.
Players doesn’t leave you with a long-lasting feeling. It ends and you are like ‘okay, what was I doing beforehand.’
Stream or Skip?
You can go for it but keep in mind the riders mentioned above.
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