Another slow-burn romance or something fresh?
Liam Hemsworth has returned to our screens, teaming up with Laura Dern in Netflix’s Lonely Planet, a romantic drama set against the visually stunning backdrop of Morocco. But… is it really worth your time? Or is it just another formulaic romance that’s been done a thousand times?
Let’s dive into it.
What’s Lonely Planet About?
In Lonely Planet, Laura Dern plays Katherine Loewe, a reclusive novelist who retreats to Morocco, seeking inspiration for her writing. Enter Liam Hemsworth, playing Owen Brophy, a young man re-evaluating his life after some questionable choices (sounds familiar, right?). What starts as a casual connection between these two characters quickly evolves into a life-changing affair.
The idea is simple: Two souls, lost in life, find each other in an exotic location. BUT WAIT, before you roll your eyes thinking, “Not another travel-based love story!”, there are a few things that make this film stand out (even if just a bit).
Does Chemistry Save the Day?
Let’s be real: One of the primary reasons you’ll keep watching Lonely Planet is the chemistry between Hemsworth and Dern. While their relationship begins somewhat slowly, the dynamic between the two actors grows into something engaging. Hemsworth, known for his more action-heavy roles (The Hunger Games, Independence Day: Resurgence), brings a softer, introspective energy here, which contrasts well with Dern’s intellectual, sarcastic character.
But does this chemistry fully carry the movie? That’s debatable. The plot often feels thin, relying heavily on its actors to fill in the emotional gaps. At times, the film veers into filler territory, with some scenes feeling like they’re simply padding out the 90-minute runtime.
A Love Affair with Morocco… Or Not?
Ah, Morocco. The vibrant souks, the desert vistas… Netflix clearly invested in the location, and the cinematography is undeniably stunning. But despite the beautiful landscapes, the setting doesn’t always feel integrated into the story. Some scenes, like shopping for trinkets or awkward local encounters, seem disconnected, almost like tourism ads inserted into the narrative.
Do we get FOMO? Not really. In fact, even Katherine turns down a trip to the desert, which might make you question why the filmmakers chose such a rich setting if they weren’t going to fully explore it.
What’s the Verdict?
Watch it if you love slow-burn romances. Lonely Planet is a typical romantic drama with a few unique elements thanks to its stars. While it doesn’t break any new ground, the performances of Dern and Hemsworth elevate it above your average Netflix romance. Is it revolutionary? No. But if you’re a fan of either actor, it’s worth a watch.
Links to Check Out
- Watch Lonely Planet on Netflix
- If you’re unable to find this movie on your Netflix Account, it’s because it’s blocked in your region. Use a reliable VPN like NordVPN, and you’ll be able to access without any issues.