Artful Deception: 'Upgraded' Walks the Line Between Lie and Love! #343

It’s not usual for me to watch movie on a typical Monday… but life has been so dull lately that I could use a little distraction. So I picked up something from my go-to genre: Romance + comedy.

Let’s face it, the world of romantic comedies isn’t exactly overflowing with groundbreaking originality these days. But hey, sometimes you just want a comforting cup of cinematic cocoa, right? Enter “Upgraded,” a film that feels as warm and familiar as your favorite fuzzy socks.

So, what’s the story?

We meet Ana (played by the ever-charming Camila Mendes, you might know her from “Riverdale” or the recent Netflix hit “Do Revenge”). Ana’s an art history whiz with big dreams of conquering the London art scene. Problem is, those dreams are about as funded as a student’s ramen budget. Enter a chance encounter on a plane with the handsome and wealthy Will (played by Archie Renaux, who you might recognize from the “Maleficent” sequel). A white lie later (whoops!), and Ana finds herself pretending to be an art curator to impress Will and, more importantly, her intimidating boss, Claire (the fabulous Marisa Tomei).

Now, this whole “fake it till you make it” premise might sound a little familiar. Did someone say “The Devil Wears Prada?” While “Upgraded” definitely borrows some DNA from that classic rom-com, it injects enough fresh energy to keep things from feeling stale. Plus, there’s a surprising amount of heart underneath all the designer clothes and posh accents.

But what really elevates “Upgraded” is its cast. Mendes brings a relatable vulnerability to Ana. We root for her even as she digs herself deeper into her elaborate lie. Renaux is charming as the oblivious Will, and there’s a sweetness to their developing romance that’s hard to resist. The supporting cast steals the show at times. Tomei is deliciously wicked as the demanding Claire, while Anthony Head (Giles from “Buffy the Vampire Slayer” all grown up!) brings a touch of comedic relief as a flamboyant artist.

Speaking of inspiration, director Carlson Young isn’t exactly known for rom-coms. His previous work, “The Blazing World,” was a surreal fantasy film. This unexpected shift in genre is interesting, and Young manages to translate his quirky sensibilities into “Upgraded” with some fun visuals and a touch of the unexpected.

Of course, the film isn’t without its flaws. The plot gets a little predictable at times, and the whole “white lie” thing could have been handled with a bit more nuance. Ana’s journey towards self-discovery feels a little rushed, and some might find it hard to fully embrace her character after her initial deception.

That being said, “Upgraded” is a perfectly delightful way to spend a night in. It’s funny, charming, and boasts a cast with undeniable chemistry. If you’re looking for a rom-com that’s more comfort food than gourmet experience, then this film definitely deserves a spot on your watchlist.

Here are some additional thoughts:

Is it a remake? While “Upgraded” borrows from classic rom-com tropes, it’s not a straight-up remake of any particular film. Think of it as more of a homage to the genre.
For fans of the cast: If you’re already a fan of Mendes, Renaux, Tomei, or Head, then this is a no-brainer. They all deliver strong performances that elevate the material.
Beyond the rom-com: While “Upgraded” is primarily a romantic comedy, it does touch on themes of ambition, self-worth, and the importance of staying true to yourself.

So, the final verdict?

“Upgraded” might not reinvent the rom-com wheel, but it gives it a fun and stylish spin. It’s a film that will leave you smiling, maybe even with a slight case of the warm fuzzies. Just don’t expect anything too groundbreaking. After all, sometimes familiar can be exactly what the cinematic doctor ordered.

If you like ‘Upgraded’, you might see a familiar face in this movie: