Netflix's latest romantic comedy, Voicemails for Isabelle, has captured audiences with its unique premise and heartfelt performances. The film follows Jill (Zoey Deutch), a woman grieving her sister Isabelle, who leaves voicemails that are accidentally received by Wes (Nick Robinson) on his new work phone. As Wes listens to her messages, he falls in love with her humor and vulnerability.
The film has been a critical and audience success, earning a 91% approval rating from audiences on Rotten Tomatoes and an 84% score from critics. However, despite its charm, the movie suffers from a glaring issue: the main characters barely interact until the final act.
The Core Problem: Lack of On-Screen Chemistry
Throughout most of the film, Wes and Jill share minimal screen time. Their relationship develops primarily through Wes's one-sided listening to Jill's voicemails, rather than through mutual interactions. By the time Wes confesses his love on New Year's Eve, the audience is left questioning the depth of their connection.
Wes's actions, including manipulating a work trip to orchestrate a meeting in San Francisco, border on stalking. While rom-com conventions often forgive such behavior due to the protagonist's charm, the film fails to justify why Jill would fall for someone she barely knows.
Character Development and Storytelling
Jill is the focal point of the narrative, with Wes serving as a secondary character. This imbalance makes it clear why Wes desires Jill, but not why Jill is drawn to Wes beyond his physical appearance. The film's reliance on Wes's handsomeness to excuse his deceptive behavior undermines its emotional payoff.
Despite these flaws, the movie excels in other areas. Zoey Deutch delivers a compelling performance, blending wit and vulnerability. The script, written by Laura Harman, balances humor with poignant moments that explore grief and healing. The film's quick dialogue and relatable references keep viewers engaged.
Netflix's Rom-Com Success
Voicemails for Isabelle continues Netflix's streak of successful romantic comedies, following Deutch's previous hit Set It Up (2018). The film has quickly climbed Netflix's most-watched charts and is expected to remain popular due to its uplifting tone and emotional depth.
While the romance feels rushed, the film's overall quality—strong performances, sharp writing, and emotional resonance—makes it a worthwhile watch. Audiences looking for a heartwarming story with a few imperfections will find plenty to enjoy.
