Tags: palm springs
Palm Springs (2020)
3.8 out of 5
Genre: Comedy, Romance, Science Fiction
Movie Information:
Max Barbakow makes his feature film debut with “Palm Springs,” a clever and original take on the time loop concept.
Lead: Andy Samberg
Andy Samberg sheds his usual comedic persona to play Nyles, a sarcastic and nihilistic wedding guest stuck reliving the same day.
Lead: Cristin Milioti
Cristin Milioti delivers a captivating performance as Sarah, a frustrated maid of honor who becomes reluctantly drawn into Nyles’ time loop chaos.
The Movie's Business
Box Office Performance: • North American Gross: $1.5 million, Worldwide Gross: $1.7 million
Synopsis
Nyles Daytona (Andy Samberg) seems to be the life of the party at a Palm Springs wedding. However, beneath the carefree facade lies a dark secret: Nyles is trapped in a time loop, reliving the same day over and over again.
His cynical existence is disrupted when Sarah Wilder (Cristin Milioti), a guest at the wedding, stumbles upon his secret and becomes the newest member of his time-loop club.
Together, they navigate the absurdity of their situation, indulging in debauchery and recklessness with no consequences. But as Sarah grapples with the monotony and Nyles confronts the emotional toll of his endless loop, they must decide if they can find love, meaning, and perhaps even an escape from their temporal prison.
Required Viewing Movies (RQV): REVIEW
Strengths
Palm Springs is a smart and funny exploration of the time loop concept.
The film cleverly uses the repetitive nature of the time loop to create hilarious situations and character development.
Andy Samberg and Cristin Milioti share undeniable comedic chemistry, their banter and witty dialogue keeping the film entertaining.
Beneath the humor lies a surprisingly poignant exploration of love, regret, and the search for purpose, even in the face of an unending cycle.
Weaknesses
The film’s reliance on the time loop concept might feel repetitive for some viewers, especially in the second half.
The exploration of the time loop’s mechanics and potential escape methods takes a backseat to the comedic and emotional aspects of the story.
The ending, while satisfying, might leave viewers wanting a more in-depth explanation of the time loop’s origins.
Why Palm Springs is Required Viewing
Palm Springs is more than just your average romantic comedy. It takes a familiar genre and injects it with sci-fi elements and philosophical undertones. The film is laugh-out-loud funny while also prompting reflection on life, relationships, and the meaning we create in a seemingly meaningless loop.
While the humor and central premise might not be for everyone, “Palm Springs” is a rewarding watch for those seeking a unique and thought-provoking romantic comedy.
