What If (2013)

What If Poster

Medical-school dropout Wallace has been repeatedly burned by bad relationships. So while everyone around him, including his roommate Allan, seems to be finding the perfect partner, Wallace decides to put his love life on hold. It is then that he meets Chantry, an animator who lives with her longtime boyfriend Ben. Wallace and Chantry form an instant connection, striking up a close friendship. Still, there is no denying the chemistry between them, leading the pair to wonder, what if the love of your life is actually your best friend?

Introduction
"What If", likewise referred to as "The F Word" in some nations, is a 2013 romantic comedy-drama film directed by Michael Dowse. Based upon the play "Toothpaste and Cigars" by T. J. Dawe and Michael Rinaldi, the movie is about a boy who falls for a woman who currently has a boyfriend, and the stress this brings. The movie stars Daniel Radcliffe and is renowned for its exceptional balance of humor and genuine emotional depth.

Plot Summary
The film opens with protagonist Wallace (Daniel Radcliffe), a medical school dropout who's been burned in the romance department before. Throughout a party hosted by his buddy Allan (Adam Driver), Wallace satisfies Chantry (Zoe Kazan), Allan's cousin. The 2 have an immediate connection as they bond over magnetic poetry on the fridge. Chantry is an animator living with her long-lasting boyfriend, Ben (Rafe Spall), but the triggers between her and Wallace are undeniable.

The Platonic Relationship
Throughout the movie, Wallace and Chantry struggle to preserve a simply platonic relationship in spite of their structure chemistry. They share similar interests, long walks, and deep conversations, which result in an emotional accessory that's hard to disregard. Wallace, respecting Chantry's relationship, keeps his feelings to himself however is constantly lured.

The Build-Up
The stress constructs as Ben has to relocate to Dublin for work, leaving Chantry alone in Toronto. While Chantry attempts to navigate her method through isolation, Wallace becomes her close buddy, which deepens their bond. They become inseparable, resulting in several entertaining and uncomfortable moments where they nearly cross the line in between relationship and romance.

The Climax
In the film's climax, after a series of misunderstandings and a wild night that ends in Wallace getting hurt, Chantry finds a draft of a letter Wallace had written to her. She recognizes his real feelings and faces him. The confrontation is extreme and psychological, as Chantry battles with her sensations too.

Conclusion
The movie ends on a confident note. Chantry ends up breaking up with Ben and taking a break to figure out her sensations. After a long time apart, she fulfills Wallace at Allan and Nicole's (Mackenzie Davis) wedding event. Wallace and Chantry admit their feelings for each other and share a passionate and emotive kiss. The movie concludes with the 2 gladly together.

"B > Overall Analysis

"What If" emerges as a magnificently woven, character-rich story that pushes beyond the common "pal zone" narrative in romantic funnies. It uses a deeply nuanced exploration of relationship and unmentioned feelings, acting as a refreshing take on the category. The performances by Radcliffe and Kazan are charming and persuading, and, enhanced by a well-written script, make the movie a pleasurable watch. With its balance of humor, emotion, and a compelling story, "What If" provides a heartfelt check out the intricacies of love and relationship.

Top Cast

  • Daniel Radcliffe (small)
    Daniel Radcliffe
    Wallace
  • Zoe Kazan (small)
    Zoe Kazan
    Chantry
  • Megan Park (small)
    Megan Park
    Dalia
  • Adam Driver (small)
    Adam Driver
    Allan
  • Mackenzie Davis (small)
    Mackenzie Davis
    Nicole
  • Rafe Spall (small)
    Rafe Spall
    Ben
  • Lucius Hoyos (small)
    Lucius Hoyos
    Felix
  • Jemima Rooper (small)
    Jemima Rooper
    Ellie
  • Tommie-Amber Pirie (small)
    Tommie-Amber Pirie
    Gretchen
  • Meghan Heffern (small)
    Meghan Heffern
    Tabby
  • Jonathan Cherry (small)
    Jonathan Cherry
    Josh