What was the last mainstream romantic comedy release you recall at the cinema ? I can’t remember either and a quick search of IMDb pulls up a lot of Hallmark Channel telemovies set around Christmas time.
So if you’re looking for a story to quicken the pulse, the quick fire banter and attractive co-stars in The Hating Game will wet your whistle.
With a tight script and genuine performances with a bit of tongue in cheek, The Hating Game is a smart story set in New York. Helmed by Lucy Hale, it joins the growing rank of productions with strong young women both in front and behind the camera – aka Lily Collins in Netflix’s success, Emily in Paris.
Based on the novel by Sally Thorne, Lucy Hutton (Hale) has always been certain that the nice girl can get the corner office. She’s charming and accommodating and prides herself on being loved by everyone at publishing company, Bexley & Gamin. Everyone except for coldly efficient, impeccably attired Joshua Templeman (Austin Stowell). And the feeling is mutual.
Trapped in a shared office, they’ve become entrenched in an addictive game of one-upmanship, which goes up a few notches when a huge new promotion is within her reach. If Lucy wins this game, she’ll be Joshua’s boss. So why is she suddenly having steamy dreams about Joshua, and dressing for work like she’s got a hot date? Their warfare pushes their emotions for each other towards an inevitable clench but the promotion still weighs heavily over their heads.
The Hating Game is a polished film with high production values. The script is well-written and the romantic comedic structure will be familiar to fans of the genre. Hale has the comedic delivery of Goldie Hawn and Stowell has an uncanny resemblance to a young Pierce Brosnan – it’s in the eyes. Corbin Bernsen balances out the trio playing the misogynistic CEO who holds the future of Lucy’s career in his hands. Office sidekick Danny elevates the comedy brilliantly, played by Damon Daunno.
The Hating Game is now showing. Check your local guides for screening times.
About The Hating Game
Length: 98 minutes
Directed by Peter Hutchings
Written by Christina Mengert, based on the novel by Sally Thorne
Stars Lucy Hale, Austin Stowell, Damon Daunno, Sakina Jaffrey, Corbin Bersen
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