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In the latest offering from Universal Pictures, “One Night Only” attempts to revive the romantic comedy genre with a peculiar twist. Set in a world where premarital sex is legal for just 12 hours a year, the film grapples with its absurd premise while navigating the typical romcom tropes. Despite a glossy presentation and a notable cast, it struggles to balance its dark themes with light-hearted entertainment.
A Quirky Concept with Grim Undertones
The film opens with an eyebrow-raising premise: a government decree has outlawed premarital sex in the United States, effectively designating one night a year as the only opportunity for singles to indulge their passions. This bizarre setup, described as a cross between “The Purge” and a romantic escapade, leads viewers to ponder not only the implications of such a law but also the sheer absurdity of the scenario. The film introduces an odd societal landscape where incels are celebrated and individuals are monitored by biosensors that change colour based on their sexual activity.
The comedic backdrop, underscored by a peppy soundtrack, is juxtaposed against the grim realities of state control over personal freedoms. As audiences settle in for what’s expected to be a light-hearted romp, the weight of this dystopian premise looms large, creating a dissonance that the film struggles to reconcile.
A Night of Hectic Hijinks
Set against the vibrant streets of New York City, “One Night Only” follows the escapades of Owen (Callum Turner) and Allie (Monica Barbaro), two singles on a quest for connection as the clock ticks down to the midnight deadline. Owen’s plans with his girlfriend are dashed, leading him to team up with Allie, who is encouraged by her queer roommate to seize the moment and embrace the chaos of the night.
What follows is a whirlwind journey across the city as they navigate an array of comedic misadventures and awkward encounters. However, the film’s pacing often feels frenetic, leaving little room for character development or genuine emotional depth. While the chemistry between Turner and Barbaro is palpable, their banter lacks the spark needed to elevate the narrative beyond mere surface-level interactions.
A Missed Opportunity for Depth
Director Will Gluck, known for his commercial flair, delivers a visually appealing film that captures the essence of NYC nightlife. Yet, despite the vibrant cinematography and energetic soundtrack, “One Night Only” falters in its storytelling. The script, penned by children’s TV writer Travis Braun, fails to provide the necessary nuance or wit to transform its unique premise into a compelling narrative.
The film attempts to weave in pop culture references and comedic cameos from celebrities like Julia Fox and Pete Davidson, but these moments often feel more like distractions than enhancements. The result is a patchwork of scenes that lack coherence, making it difficult for audiences to become fully invested in the characters’ journeys.
The Underlying Message
As the film progresses, it becomes increasingly apparent that “One Night Only” grapples with a troubling contradiction. While it sets out to critique a society that imposes draconian laws on personal freedoms, it inadvertently veers into a territory that seems to mock those who seek sexual connection, leaving viewers questioning the film’s overall message.
The lack of substantial world-building leaves many questions unanswered, such as the absence of discussions surrounding alternatives like masturbation, which could also trigger the invasive biosensors. The film’s failure to address these points highlights a deeper issue: it presents a grim reality without offering any real resistance against it, making the characters’ antics feel hollow.
Why it Matters
In a time when societal discussions around sexual freedom and bodily autonomy are more relevant than ever, “One Night Only” ironically misses the mark. By tackling themes of control and rebellion within a comedic framework, the film risks trivialising serious issues that resonate in our current climate. As a result, while audiences may find fleeting moments of humour, the underlying narrative leaves a bitter aftertaste, ultimately questioning whether a night of debauchery can truly mask the weight of oppressive societal norms.
