In the realm of classic cancer tearjerkers, “Sitting in Bars with Cake” enters the stage with a shaky start but offers just the right amount of sweetness. Audrey Shulman’s unconventional quest to find a boyfriend by baking cakes and taking them to bars takes an unexpected turn when her friend Chrissy is diagnosed with cancer. Directed by Trish Sie, this new Prime Video entry evolves into a bittersweet tearjerker that tugs at the heartstrings while celebrating female friendships and self-discovery.
The Premise
“Sitting in Bars with Cake” introduces Jane (Yara Shahidi) and Corinne (Odessa A’zion), best friends who have relocated from Arizona to Los Angeles. While Corinne works as a junior music agent, Jane is a mailroom clerk preparing for law school, all the while nurturing a deep passion for baking. However, Jane’s shyness is a contrast to Corinne’s outgoing personality. In the early scenes, Jane quips, “If it works for Mr. Rogers, it works for me,” highlighting her reserved nature. Corrine, on the other hand, suggests a unique plan – visiting a new bar every week for a year with her homemade cake to meet men. They coin this experiment as ‘cakebarring.’
What Works
As their plan gains momentum and life appears to be falling into place, Corrine’s life takes a dramatic turn when she experiences a seizure. The diagnosis reveals that Corrine has brain cancer. Despite her parents’ (Ron Livingston and Martha Kelly) insistence on helping, Corrine chooses to remain with Jane. The film then embarks on a turbulent journey, exploring the various challenges their friendship faces.
Yara Shahidi delivers a finely nuanced performance, but her character, Jane, occasionally feels somewhat two-dimensional and predictable. In contrast, Odessa A’zion breathes life into Corrine, infusing her with spirit, vibrancy, and a palpable sense of longing that captivates the audience whenever she is on screen. The underutilized Bette Midler also shines in her role as Corrine’s boss, adding to the film’s charm.
Despite some moments being overshadowed by the central plot of caregiving and hospital visits, the latter half of the film maintains a tight focus and a sense of authenticity. Director Trish Sie, along with the contributions of Lauren Connelly’s sharp editing and Tracy Dishman’s succinct production design, crafts a poignant exploration of what it truly means to care for someone. While the film could have experimented more boldly with its narrative elements, similar to the creativity of its baked goods, it still offers a cinematic experience worth savoring.
Final Thoughts
“Sitting in Bars with Cake” may not be without its flaws, but it succeeds in delivering a heartfelt portrayal of friendship, love, and the challenges that life throws our way. With its touching narrative and compelling performances, this film invites audiences to reflect on the profound meaning of care and connection. It’s a cinematic treat that deserves a taste.
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