Movie Review: Maybe I Do (2023)
Plot
Maybe I Do is a romantic comedy directed by Michael Jacobs that revolves around a complicated and emotionally charged weekend getaway involving four couples at different stages of their relationships. The film explores themes of love, trust, commitment, and the complexities of modern relationships.
The story follows Michelle (played by Emma Roberts) and Allen (played by Luke Bracey), a young couple who have been dating for a while and are thinking about taking the next step in their relationship—marriage. However, the two are unsure about their future together, as doubts and insecurities creep in, especially when they learn that their parents are meeting each other for the first time over a weekend trip to a beach house.
As the weekend unfolds, Michelle and Allen’s relationship is tested as they begin to see their parents’ own complicated love lives and unresolved issues. Michelle’s mother, played by Diane Keaton, and Allen’s father, portrayed by Richard Gere, each have their own romantic entanglements and history, which complicates the interactions and forces both Michelle and Allen to confront their own feelings about love, commitment, and what they truly want in life.
The weekend becomes a blend of emotional revelations, awkward encounters, and moments of clarity that help each character come to terms with their relationships in different ways. Maybe I Do examines how the past influences the present and the role that communication—or lack thereof—plays in sustaining love.
Themes
Maybe I Do touches on several universal themes about love, relationships, and personal growth. At the forefront is the idea that love isn’t always as simple as it seems, and relationships require constant work and understanding to thrive. The film examines how love evolves, how people can fall out of sync with each other, and how vulnerability is necessary for real connection.
A major theme in the movie is generational differences in relationships. The interactions between the younger couple (Michelle and Allen) and the older generation (the parents) serve as a lens through which we see how relationships evolve, with different expectations, struggles, and understandings of love over time. Through these dynamics, the film explores the idea of whether true love exists, how it’s maintained, and whether it’s possible to grow together without losing oneself.
Another important theme is the idea of choice—whether to stay or leave, whether to settle for comfort or take a leap of faith into the unknown. Throughout the weekend, both couples and individuals are forced to reflect on their choices and what makes a relationship work in the long term. The film encourages the idea that sometimes, understanding what you truly want involves facing uncomfortable truths about yourself and your partner.
Performance
The performances in Maybe I Do are a standout feature of the film. Emma Roberts brings a grounded, relatable energy to Michelle, portraying her internal struggle and emotional journey with sincerity. Roberts effectively conveys the confusion, hope, and vulnerability that come with navigating a significant life decision like marriage.
Luke Bracey plays Allen with a mix of charm and hesitation, capturing the uncertainties of a young man who wants to take the next step but is held back by personal doubts and external pressures. The chemistry between Roberts and Bracey feels natural, with their characters’ interactions revealing a dynamic that’s both sweet and realistic.
The veteran cast members—Diane Keaton and Richard Gere—are equally impressive. Keaton, as Michelle’s mother, brings her usual warmth and wit to the role, though she also shows a more vulnerable side when her own past relationship mistakes come to light. Richard Gere, as Allen’s father, is a natural presence, adding depth to the film’s exploration of the emotional weight that comes with aging and looking back at one’s life choices. Their performances lend an extra layer of emotional resonance to the film, elevating the storytelling and making the generational themes even more impactful.
Direction and Cinematography
Michael Jacobs directs Maybe I Do with a keen understanding of the intricacies of relationships. The pacing of the film is steady, allowing the story to unfold slowly while giving the audience time to connect with the characters. The direction highlights the emotional beats of the story, focusing on the dialogue and interactions between the characters rather than relying on grand gestures or external action.
The cinematography by David M. Dunlap is understated but effective, capturing the intimate moments between the characters as well as the scenic beauty of the beach house setting. The cinematography complements the film’s themes, focusing on the characters’ faces during emotional confrontations or moments of reflection, which helps to underscore the internal struggles each person is experiencing.
Critique
While Maybe I Do offers some touching moments and a great ensemble cast, it occasionally falls into predictable romantic comedy territory. The story has its share of clichés, especially in its portrayal of misunderstandings between couples, which might feel a bit formulaic for viewers familiar with the genre. Some plot points also rely heavily on coincidences, which can detract from the film’s realism.
Another critique could be that some of the characters’ arcs feel a bit rushed or underdeveloped. While the movie touches on important themes, it sometimes doesn’t delve deeply enough into the complexities of each character’s journey. As a result, some of the emotional payoffs, while still impactful, might feel a bit surface-level to those expecting a deeper exploration of the issues the characters are grappling with.
Conclusion
Maybe I Do is a charming and thought-provoking romantic comedy that delves into the complexity of relationships, love, and the choices that shape our futures. With a talented cast, especially the standout performances of Emma Roberts, Luke Bracey, Diane Keaton, and Richard Gere, the film offers an enjoyable exploration of what it means to commit, communicate, and grow together in love.
