Helen knows exactly what she needs: a fresh start in life. And the wilderness survival course her younger brother Duncan persuades her to join might just be the key. Spoiler alert: it really is!
“Happiness for Beginners” doesn’t stray far from the familiar rom-com formula. We’ve got a lead character feeling disillusioned with life, and another with dreamy eyes and a “save everyone” attitude. It’s a tried-and-true formula that works its magic once again, even if the plot’s predictability doesn’t surprise us.
As they embark on the hike, Helen finds herself unnerved by Jake, Duncan’s best friend and a former doctor, who pretends not to know her. The tension between them simmers with every step they take among the other hikers.
The group is a mix of intriguing personalities, like Hugh, who’s similar to Nico Santos’s iconic character Matteo from “Superstore” and came on the hike to “luxuriate in pain and frustration.” And then there’s Windy, the ever-cheerful student of ‘happiness,’ who inspires everyone to find the good in their day.
The movie strikingly balances romance and comedy, with attention given to the supporting cast, keeping us hooked from start to finish. The visuals and delightful, non-cringy dialogue make it a joyful ride, reminding us why we love rom-coms.
“Happiness for Beginners” reminds us that happiness and love can be found just around the corner, and life is like a survival course to discover them. It’s a heartwarming realization that leaves us yearning for a hike or even just a pleasant stroll in our neighborhood.
So, if you’re a fan of rom-coms, this movie is worth adding to your watchlist. But if you never get around to seeing it, that’s alright too, as you won’t be missing out on too much.