A surprise party planner hates surprises in her own life. She can’t seem to find the right guy, even though he may be right under her nose.
The independent film “Surprise Me!” sports a lively cast and an intelligent, funny script from writer-director Nancy Goodman, who helms the production with a deft touch. Addressing themes of love and friendship, combined with an attempt to fill an emotional void with an eating disorder, Fiona Gubelmann as Genie Burns lights up the screen throughout.
During the first few minutes, Gubelmann’s earnestness might seem a little over the top, but as the movie progresses, her surefooted performance modulates pitch-perfect. Gubelmann provides the audience with an endearing character, indicative of greater things to come from her in the future.
Genie runs an event planning firm that engineers unexpected surprises for her clients. LaShawn Banks as Steven, Genie’s partner, offers sage counsel with elegant wit. His performance is a delight to watch and were it not for the formidable Gubelmann, he might easily have stolen the whole show. Steven wants to expand the business to other cities, but Genie – consistent with her character – remains reluctant to take chances.
Gubelmann bears a resemblance to Mira Sorvino, while her romantic interest, Sean Faris looks and acts a bit like a young Tom Cruise, albeit with a toothier smile. Despite appearances, both settle in comfortably with their characters making them uniquely their own.
Jonathan David Bennett as Danny, the friend boyfriend of Genie, is always in the background engaging in periodic, inevitably temporary, amorous relationships with other people. His current love interest, Kay (Elizabeth Argus) overflows with so much bubbly enthusiasm that you want to punch her in the face. In her scenes with Argus, among others, Gubelmann keenly demonstrates the measured balance she brings to the lead role.
Genie receives advice on many fronts. Robyn Coffin as Lori serves as Genie’s good friend and sounding board. Another source of insight comes from Ellen, her therapist (Nicole Sullivan) who gamely helps Genie deal with binge eating driven by the uncertainty associated with her love interests. Keith Kupferer does a nice turn as Genie’s stepfather.
The wonderful array of supporting actors adds to the story’s appeal. The collective ensemble of stars on the rise elevates the entire production beyond the typical color-by-numbers approach romantic comedies often tack. Numerous scenes in “Surprise Me!” feel like a love letter to Chicago, similar to Woody Allen’s “Manhattan.” The cityscapes, restaurants, riverwalk and bike trails put the ambiance of the Windy City on full display.
Dedicated to the memory of DuShon Monique Brown, “Surprise Me!” delivers as promised. Toward the end when the narrative appears poised to wrap things up a little too neatly, Goodman’s direction takes the time needed to bring home a well-paced and suitable emotional payoff. Genie’s road to discovery makes it a pleasure for audiences to come along for the ride. Indeed, Goodman’s perky, independent production – served well by a superb cast – makes a solid, confident contribution to the rom-com catalog.
Available on Video-On-Demand Friday, October 4th
