No matter the time, love never changes, and director William Bridges’ bittersweet romantic drama “All of You” is a poignant exploration of the timeless essence of our search in finding “the one.” With a script co-written by Bridges and lead actor Brett Goldstein, the film works so well because it’s a realistic story that’s told from the point of view of two men. It’s an insightful, tender, heartbreaking, and passionate story of two best friends who seem destined to be together, but just can’t seem to make it work.
Set in the near future, Simon (Goldstein) and Laura (Imogen Poots) are the best of friends who do everything together. When science claims to have a test that can pinpoint a person’s soulmate, Laura clamors to take it. Simon isn’t so sure, but he takes his buddy to the clinic anyway, hoping that science will prove he is indeed the one. Of course, the test pairs Laura with someone else (Steven Cree) despite Simon still being head-over-heels in love with her.
The story is structured innovatively as the film jumps forward in time, offering glimpses into the lives of Laura and Simon as they share in the joys and disappointments thrown their way. There’s a common bond and so much adoration (and desire) between the two, yet Laura eventually is happily married with a child. It’s a layered view of an evolving relationship that’s caught up in the complexities of love.
Surprisingly, the film doesn’t explore its sci-fi angle of soulmate discovery too much and instead focuses on the raw, real, and very human experience of falling in love and the regrets that often accompany that emotion. The script resonates with authenticity, and the male viewpoint on relationships feels refreshingly unique. Bridges and Goldstein’s writing captures the essence of a deep, enduring love while also highlighting the emotional turmoil of being too late to speak up about your true feelings. It’s sentimental but not overly so, offering a realistic portrayal of relationships and a genuine connection between the two main characters.
Both Simon and Laura are well-written and easy to fall in love with yourself. Simon isn’t just a good guy, he’s a great guy, and Laura is obviously the woman he’s meant to be with. Their dynamic is perfectly captured by Goldstein and Poots, who have an undeniable chemistry here. All of this makes their eventual realization of a shared inability to fully love anyone else both inevitable and heartbreaking.
The film does stretch itself a bit thin, and the pacing can feel uneven as it jumps forward in time. The story could benefit from a slightly tighter edit because it becomes repetitive in its exploration of a relationship that, at its core, remains largely unchanged over the decades.
Ultimately, “All of You” is a really great love story that’s different from the rest. The film creates a romance that’s both timeless and deeply affecting, and will be adored by those who appreciate a heartfelt exploration of the destiny part of “happily ever after.”
By: Louisa Moore
Screen Zealots 