When Romance Gets Real and Relatable

Read Time:4 Minute, 55 Second

MOVIE REVIEW
This is Love!?
–

Genre: Comedy, Short
Year Released: 2025
Runtime: 10m
Director(s): Haley Rice
Writer(s): Tom Hausher
Cast: J.D. Brookshire, Tom Hausher
Where To Watch: TBA, for more information, visit www.instagram.com/messystarsproductions

RAVING REVIEW: Romantic comedies often seem trapped in a predictable pattern, but occasionally, a film emerges to flip the script. THIS IS LOVE!? does just that, breathing air into a genre that desperately needs it. Director Haley Rice delivers a charming and relatable short film that explores the everyday struggles of ever-lasting love. Rather than relying on grand romantic gestures or cliché plot twists, Rice focuses on the tensions that quietly build up over time, resulting in an engaging story filled with witty dialogue, intriguing characters, and thoughtful insights into modern relationships.

Peter and Luke are at the film's heart, portrayed by actors J.D Brookshire and Tom Hausher, who also crafted the screenplay. Their chemistry is effortless, lending authenticity to their interactions and ensuring audiences immediately connect with them. Instead of over-the-top arguments or exaggerated conflicts, the actors keep things grounded, finding humor and honesty in the mundane realities of life together. Moments where Peter's forgetfulness leads him to seek Luke’s assistance repeatedly resonate and evoke genuine laughs from anyone who has lived a life with the ups and downs of long-term commitment.

One standout element of THIS IS LOVE!? is its balance of humor and depth. The film seamlessly transitions from playful banter to more introspective and serious moments, mirroring the unpredictable rhythms of real-life relationships. Rice carefully manages these shifts, preventing the film from feeling forced or unnatural. Instead, audiences are treated to a realistic portrayal of how minor misunderstandings can quickly escalate into deeper conversations about commitment, trust, and emotional intimacy. This authenticity gives the film its emotional punch, keeping viewers genuinely invested in Peter and Luke’s journey. Somehow, all of this happens with sincerity in just ten minutes!

The cinematography by Kevin Losani deserves special mention, enhancing the film's emotional core. Despite being confined to a single location, Losani varies the visual style, using shifts in lighting and framing to reflect the characters’ emotional states. Early scenes are filled with warm, inviting tones, highlighting the comfort and closeness between Peter and Luke. As tensions subtly build, the film gradually introduces colder colors and more distant shots, effectively capturing the growing emotional disconnect.

The short runtime keeps the film engaging and focused but also suggests exciting potential for a longer, more developed version of this story. Luke's internal restlessness and hints at external temptation are intriguing and could become even more powerful with additional screen time or dialogue. A more detailed exploration of Luke’s inner world would deepen audience connection and enhance the emotional journey, providing further insight and improving the resolution between the characters. Expanding this narrative would capture the complexity and depth already hinted at, offering viewers an even more rewarding experience.

Rice's direction remains confident and thoughtful throughout. Her precise pacing ensures the film flows smoothly, maintaining the viewers' interest at every turn. Rice uses subtle directorial choices, such as carefully orchestrated camera movements and deliberate pauses, to heighten impact and comedic timing. Her attention to detail ensures that every scene feels intentional. Rice demonstrates a clear knack for storytelling, balancing visual storytelling and dialogue-driven humor in a way that few short films manage successfully.

Hausher’s script also plays a key role in the film’s effectiveness. It captures the small, relatable moments that define relationships without resorting to stereotypes or overly dramatic moments. His dialogue feels real and spontaneous, mixing humor with genuine emotional vulnerability. The film avoids drawn-out conflicts or excessive exposition, instead letting its characters naturally reveal their feelings through interactions that are true to life. This understated approach allows audiences to connect with Peter and Luke, seeing their experiences reflected on-screen.

Ultimately, what makes THIS IS LOVE!? stand apart in its authenticity and relatability. It recognizes that love isn't always about grand gestures or dramatic reconciliations. Often, it's about navigating the tiny moments, subtle insecurities, and quiet misunderstandings that build over time. Rice’s short film is a charming reminder of how even the smallest interactions carry significant weight, especially in relationships built on years of shared history.

THIS IS LOVE!? is a thoroughly enjoyable short that tackles the quirks and quiet conflicts of relationships. Strong performances, sharp direction, and thoughtful cinematography provide laughter and genuine insight. Rice’s careful handling of the material ensures the film resonates, appealing to anyone who's ever been in—or observed—the charming, complicated dance of long-term love.

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[photo courtesy of MESSY STARS PRODUCTIONS]

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