The Sun Is Also A Star is truly the tale of two separate films. On the one hand, we have a movie (based on Nicola Yoon’s YA Novel) that’s intriguing. The idea that one decision, either way, could lead to a life-changing moment is a fascinating direction (even if it’s one that other films have done in the past). On the other hand, we have a film that’s just knee deep in all the tropes which make rom-com’s enjoyable to some but to the vast majority of the audience irritating. Combines these two and the result is an average experience for the audience. There’s nothing wrong with The Sun Is Also A Star, but I can’t identify anything that would make a must-see release.
So what’s the basic premise of the film? College-bound romantic Daniel Bae and Jamaica-born pragmatist Natasha Kingsley meet—and fall for each other—over one magical day amidst the fervor and flurry of New York City. Sparks immediately fly between these two strangers, who might never have met had fate not given them a little push. But will fate be enough to take these teens from star-crossed to lucky in love? With just hours left on the clock in what looks to be her last day in the U.S., Natasha is fighting against her family’s deportation as fiercely as she’s fighting her budding feelings for Daniel, who is working just as hard to convince her they are destined to be together.
The best thing going for this film is its two leads. While the circumstances that these two characters find themselves in is quite melodramatic, it’s hard not to get wrapped up in this adaptation. At times cinematography was inspired. Loved how they captured the beauty of New York and used as a canvas to showcase this unlikely romance. Where The Sun Also Is A Star lost me was how blatant they were with the twist (which anyone will predict within the first 10 minutes of the film) involving Natasha and her last ditch effort to get a lawyer to help her stay in the United States.
Overall, I think the best way to frame this release is that it’s harmless. The Sun Also Is A Star is neither the worst or best release this weekend, but it is the perfect date night movie. That’s worth something!
Dewey Singleton has been reviewing new releases in television and film for many years. Dewey's reviews have been heard in multiple markets (Houston Atlanta, Tampa). Dewey's past work has been with awardswatch.com, awardsradar.com, and bleeding cool. Dewey is a proud member of the CCA.