I am committed to watching Andy Samberg in literally anything and while his brand of comedy is very unique, I was not expecting this film to be so genuinely well-written and touching. Palm Springs is an extraordinary and electric romantic-comedy that takes an already established premise and slightly reinvents it to make a clever twist of its own. I have been wildly ecstatic about this film coming out since its premiere at Sundance and when it was hilariously bought by Hulu and Neon for $17.5 million and 69 cents, I knew that it was going to be something special. From the chemistry between its leads to the spectacular writing, this might definitely be The Lonely Island's most mature production to date and all the better for them. This film is the warm light that a cold world right now desperately needs, which not only makes this the best comedy of 2020 so far but one of the greatest films.
Nyles (Andy Samberg) is a carefree slacker who seems to do what he pleases and Sarah (Cristin Milioti) is a reluctant maid of honor who has relationship troubles of her own. The two of them meet in Palm Springs for the wedding of Sarah's sister Tala (Camila Mendes) and soon realize that due to an unstoppable time loop, they are unable to leave. The script, written by Andy Siara, is simply terrific and while simple in nature, it excels in all of the best ways possible. His story is executed brilliantly while still being easy to process and I adored how light on its feet this script was. Time loop films can get incredibly dark and stemming from the Groundhog Day formula, this movie was bound to have its predictable plot points but it continued to surprise me. I find it so unbelievably exciting when everything from a film's trailer is only in the first half-hour or so of the movie, which gives the audience more time to wonder which path the story could take. The direction from first-time feature director Max Barbakow is spectacular and he has already proven that he knows how to pace a film. This movie could have easily been much longer while exploring different ways and the comedy of a time loop, but a tight 90 minutes is all that this story really needs. Barbakow does an excellent job of treating his audience right and giving the world a new perspective on this type of story without relying too much on tropes or clichés. Barbakow's direction and Siara's script prove to be a match made in heaven and along with the humorous producing efforts from all three members of The Lonely Island, this light and sunny comedy is one to not soon be forgotten. This film is perfect for a Hulu release and especially now, as the world seems to be getting colder and colder with each passing day. Palm Springs does nothing but bring warmth through its story and this might just become my new favorite time loop-inspired movie.
As ironic as it might sound, love doesn't always have to be like in the movies and that is what Palm Springs does best. The romantic aspects of this romantic-comedy were written so well and Siara's script never sacrifices individual character development for an unrealistic or overly sappy relationship arc. I adored how these characters were developed and how both Sarah and Nyles ended up realizing that they were co-dependent. This writing choice proved to be quite realistic and the poignant parts of their relationship became very apparent. Sometimes the best way to find out what someone really stands for is by wasting time with them and what better way to do so than by spending eternity reliving the same day with someone you love? The performances from Samberg and Milioti are also absolutely phenomenal and really cement their chemistry. Samberg plays a much more depressed character than usual and "pretentious sad boy" as Sarah describes him and he absolutely nails the role. Whether its the more dramatic acting he has been taking part in recently or not, his performance was fantastic and it is incredible to see him progress as not just a comedian but an actor. Milioti was my favorite aspect of this film, however, and she brings a charming and determined energy that was much needed for the story. Her character of Sarah was perfect for her and it frustrates me that she is not cast in much more stuff. Perhaps this film will help that but she is truly one of the most versatile and delightful actresses of today. Along with a hilarious supporting performance from J.K. Simmons, who plays a character named Roy that is out for revenge against Nyles, this entire cast is fantastic together and we have Allison Jones to thank for that. Like I mentioned before, even with a small budget and limited shooting locations, these filmmakers are able to create one of the most exciting and genuine romantic-comedies I have ever seen.
I have instantly fallen in love with Palm Springs; not only because it features two of my favorite comedic actors but because I was quite literally moved by its story and with how much this lived up to my wildest expectations. This film touches on a lot of deep subjects that I was not prepared for it to but the evolved level of humor and maturity that pulses through its story is something to greatly appreciate. I really cannot wait to see what Samberg, Schaffer, and Taccone produce next and as long as they stay together as a creative team, there is hilarity to be had.
My Rating: ★★★★½
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