Simply Irresistible Reviewed by Mac VerStandig Critic@moviereviews.org 4 stars (Out of 4)
Simply Irresistible is not only an extraordinary romantic film, but it is an incredibly entertaining, fun, and flat out enjoyable movie as well. In a time when filmmakers have committed to making bold moves and trying to declare political statements in their works, it is a real pleasure to see freshman director Mark Tarlov make a debut film that audiences can truly enjoy. And although this film may not be intellectually challenging, or the type of production that forces people to struggle with themselves over issues that effect their day to day lives; it is nice to get a break from that type of cinema once in a while.
The plot that Judith Roberts has created is the key force behind this film. Amanda Shelton (Sarah Michelle Gellar) has inherited her mother's restaurant in New York City which is really little more than a room with some tables, a kitchen, and a few regulars who eat lunch there daily. Amanda is the head chef, and although her food is bland, simple, and unoriginal, she has managed to make ends meet. However, as early as the second scene, only after the memorable first scene where she chases a crab up her destined lover's leg, Amanda discovers that her rent has been raised and she will be forced to close.
After the movie quickly does away with the necessary background information, the enchanting love story begins. Amanda runs into the man whose leg she had pursued earlier, a wealthy man named Tom (Sean Patrick Flanery), who is opening up a $4 million restaurant uptown. And, as a matter of the obvious, they fall madly and deeply in love. From there it is just a series romantic and comedic moments that will enlighten all that see this film. The key to enjoying this wonderful comedy is suspending all belief before the film ever begins. Certainly not realistic, you must come to the understanding that it is all far-fetched fiction filled with magic, and that is why it is so uniquely joyful to view.
Acing is very rarely a factor in romantic comedies, and therefore is often limited to that of a second class nature. That certainly would have been acceptable here, and the film probably would have worked with anyone in the lead roles. But the casting was brilliant, and the acting is truly grade A. Teenage sensation Sarah Michelle Gellar, better known to her fans as "Buffy the Vampire Slayer," is absolutely charming in her lead role. She surely has a future in the film business, despite what some skeptics may say. Dylan Baker has a supporting role in this film that shows us that he can act in non-dramatic productions as well. Any doubt of his comic ability, after his Oscar caliber performance in Happiness, should be shed now, and hopefully Hollywood will accept him as a mainstream actor soon. However, despite those 2 great performances, Sean Patrick Flanery outdoes everyone. Often similar to Michael J. Fox, he is absolutely marvelous, and one of the pillars that holds this film so strong.
Overall, Simply Irresistible is a wonderful film. Filled with moments of magic, romance and comedy alike, it is a pleasure to watch. I applaud Director Mark Tarlov for making a film that is the way the movies were meant to be: Entertaining!
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