Palm Springs Review

January 2, 2021 at 3:25pm
By Jason Stettner

This is a rather interesting play on the concept of a time loop movie, feeling similar to Groundhog Day in many ways while also being entirely fresh. It thrusts us into this rotating day in a very interesting way as we don’t necessarily know what’s about to happen, or to whom.

It’s rather fascinating to see it unfold, and the way it is delivered. In general it follows long time in loop Nyles (Andy Samberg) and then newcomer Sarah (Cristin Milioti) as they deal with the situation. Both have their own methods, but it’s the connection and time they spend together that really does alter both of their fates.

While my initial note makes this out to be something of a complete surprise, you do need to know the core characters in order to understand what’s going here. Also, don’t worry as you’ll truly be surprised by the various happenings that go on throughout the film. It’s quite exciting honestly, and a really good time.

It’s much more than your typical romantic comedy as there are some really deep layers behind this, and some elements that make you think about the movie long after the fact. It’s also just really fun, engaging and exciting to see in action. The growing bond, and delight these two shared across their adventures. There are of course others thrown into the mix, but it’s best to just see what they have to offer as you watch the film.

This was beautifully shot with a feeling of sunshine, and also rather grim despair. They really paint a charming picture throughout whether you’re seeing the growing enjoyment between the two leads or the hilariously fun segments that they share.

There’s also a level of grim death to it, mixed with a fair bit of adult content when it comes to the sexual activity at play. Just so that you’re aware of it, but it does factor into the story and the journey of the characters. They actually really do have some great character development for the core individuals at play. It’s also rather shocking in how some of it was revealed, a true surprise to me which is delightful.

Past that you’ve got a very broken down casual Nyles played by Andy Samberg that’s just going with things, having almost given up. Past him, is the truly exciting and fun to see in action Sarah who is played by Cristin Milioti. In general this has a really good cast that all add a layer of smaller hilarity to what’s going on. I’d note their nemesis is particularly interesting, but I don’t want to spoil any of the appearances or dynamics at play between the group.

The Conclusion

Palm Springs is an excellent take on time loops, being a perfect balance of romantic comedy with thought provoking moments. It’s truly hilarious, providing great laughs throughout the run time. With that, softer moments too.

These mattered to the character development, and dynamics of the story that were revealed throughout the run time. It really does provide a little level of wonder as you try to figure out some of the smaller details and potentially understand some different ones upon reflection.

That’s always exciting to see in the medium, especially since this genre of film is rarely able to reach that type of height. It really comes together in a very creative and distinct way. From the style of how this is filmed, to the fantastic cast of characters with their excellent performances and finally the story as it’s revealed across the run time.

Palm Springs Review at Home with Streamed Viewing

Rating Overall: 9.2