Look Both Ways is a 2022 dramedy movie written and directed by Wanuri Kahiu starring Lili Reinhart. A YA movie.
Well, we will start off by saying something positive about this movie: it is ever so slightly different in its approach, thanks to the premise.
Plot
Natalie is 22 years old and lives two parallel realities: in one she gets pregnant and has to stay in Texas, while in the other she pursues the stellar career as an illustrator in Los Angeles, which she has always dreamed of.
Review
This turned out to be a YA movie that to certain extent misses on the chance of making the most out of the idea of two parallel realities, and recurs to an approach that is quite run-of-the-mill, venturing from being a light (very light) comedy to an even lighter drama.
However, we did enjoy the ending somewhat, it is an appropriate, albeit hastily decided upon, rounding off. A quick fix.
Technically, it is fine. The problem with Look Both Ways is that it holds on to an easily digestible pop movie style and its script and a cinematographic treatment lives “up” to that. We insist, the concept is good, but the film lacks the edge to qualify as a comedy, and the drama for us to take this production seriously.
As far as the production is concerned, it is a Netflix Wednesday movie, created for teenagers and young adults with sensitive souls, who want to dream unchallenged. With this approach on part of the producers, there is little room for art, and it is clear that there is a huge divergence between the pretensions of the producers versus that of the creatives, which in turn results in a difficult mix where it is neither a movie gripping enough for those seeking something of substance, nor is it funny enough to be entertaining.
The highlight of this movie is Lili Reinhart, who is a good actress, and manages to perform well and convincingly enough within the lines imposed by this limited script. We know her from Riverdale, and it appears that she now wants to prove that she can indeed be a good actress, even when the script is bland.
Our Opinion
It does manage to convey what it seeks to convey, a pass-time, but it does not do much more than that. It is not a terrible movie per se, but it starts off with a promising premise that is drowned out in its production.
Where to Watch Look Both Ways
On Netflix.
Movie Trailer
Cast
Lili Reinhart / Natalie
Luke Wilson / Rick
Andrea Savage / Tina
Aisha Dee
Danny Ramirez / Gabe
David Corenswet
Nia Long / Lucy Galloway
See full credits >>
