In the vibrant city of Austin, Texas, the South by Southwest (SXSW) festival has become a melting pot of innovation, creativity, and risk-taking storytelling. This year, one film that stood out amidst the chaos was Chad Hartigan’s “The Threesome,” a romantic comedy that had everyone talking. With its witty dialogue, quirky characters, and exploration of complex relationships, this ambitious film was poised to capture the hearts of audiences and critics alike. But does “The Threesome” deliver on its promise, or does it stumble under the weight of its own ambition? In this in-depth review, we’ll delve into the highs and lows of Hartigan’s latest project, examining its strengths and weaknesses, and determining whether it’s a game-changer for the rom-com genre or a flawed experiment.
Access to Abortion Care
One of the most compelling aspects of “The Threesome” is its bold exploration of the sensitive issue of abortion care, particularly within the context of a politically divided state like Arkansas. The film does not shy away from the complexity of the subject, presenting a nuanced portrayal that is both timely and relevant. The story unfolds as Olivia, a liberal character in a predominantly conservative city, faces the decision to keep her child or seek an abortion. This dilemma is not just a backdrop but a central element that drives the narrative forward and adds weight to the characters’ emotional journeys.
The implications of the film’s stance on abortion care in a politically divided state are significant. Unionjournalism’s analysis suggests that the film does not take a heavy-handed approach, allowing viewers to draw their own conclusions about the political and social implications. However, the film does highlight the challenges faced by individuals in conservative areas who seek reproductive rights, a reality that resonates deeply with the current political climate. This approach makes the film a powerful commentary on the broader societal challenges of accessing healthcare in politically charged environments.
The Role of Comedy in Serious Narratives
Humor and Serious Themes
The integration of humor into the film’s serious themes is a point of both praise and criticism. Director Chad Hartigan and writer Ethan Ogilby skillfully use comedy to lighten the heavy subject matter, allowing the audience to engage with the film’s deeper issues without feeling overwhelmed. The humor often arises from the characters’ situational predicaments and their interpersonal dynamics, providing a balance that makes the film more approachable and relatable.
Balance in Romantic Comedies
While the humor effectively tempers the film’s more serious elements, finding a balance between comedy and the film’s serious tones is challenging. Critics note that the humor occasionally feels forced, particularly in scenes with Connor’s gay best friend, who is brought in for comic relief. This can detract from the film’s core narrative, which is otherwise well-crafted and thought-provoking. The balance is crucial in romantic comedies, and “The Threesome” manages to strike this balance at times, though it often veers into territory that feels forced or cliché.
Comparative Analysis with Other Films
Comparison with Hartigan’s Previous Works
Chad Hartigan’s “The Threesome” is a significant entry in his filmography, sharing thematic similarities with his earlier works, such as “Little Accidents” and “Everything, Everything.” Hartigan’s signature style of character-driven narratives and the exploration of complex human relationships is evident in “The Threesome,” but the film pushes further into the realm of social commentary, particularly in its treatment of reproductive rights. The film’s depiction of the characters navigating a politically charged environment in Little Rock, Arkansas, is a unique addition to Hartigan’s body of work, marking a shift from the more personal and introspective narratives of his past films.
Despite these thematic expansions, “The Threesome” retains Hartigan’s characteristic approach to storytelling, which prioritizes character development over spectacle. However, the film’s reliance on a familiar narrative structure and the somewhat generic portrayal of Connor can feel repetitive to those familiar with Hartigan’s previous work. In this context, “The Threesome” is both a continuation of Hartigan’s themes and a new exploration into more topical and politically charged territory.
Comparison with Other Rom-Coms
When compared to other romantic comedies, “The Threesome” stands out for its unique approach to the genre. Unlike traditional rom-coms that often focus on the light-hearted and often predictable path to love, Hartigan’s film delves into complex issues such as abortion access and political ideology. The film’s portrayal of a love triangle that complicates the narrative beyond simple romantic trysts is both refreshing and challenging to the genre’s conventions. While other rom-coms might shy away from such heavy topics, “The Threesome” embraces them, creating a more substantial and thought-provoking experience.
The film’s effectiveness lies in its ability to blend humor and seriousness without sacrificing the integrity of its narrative. However, this approach does not always succeed, as the film’s pacing can falter, particularly in the latter half. Despite these shortcomings, “The Threesome” remains a noteworthy entry in the genre, challenging the audience to think beyond the typical romantic comedy tropes.
The Role of Supporting Characters
The supporting characters in “The Threesome” play a crucial role in contributing to the narrative and the overall tone of the film. Olivia’s sister and Connor’s gay best friend are pivotal in shaping the protagonists’ perspectives and actions. Olivia’s sister, with her own set of challenges and a more established life, provides a stark contrast to Olivia’s indecision, highlighting the societal pressures and personal dilemmas she faces. Connor’s gay best friend, on the other hand, offers comic relief and insightful moments, though his role can feel somewhat stereotypical at times. These characters, while not central to the plot, serve to enrich the narrative and add layers to the main storyline.
Cinematic Elements and Critical Reception
Visual and Auditory Aspects
The cinematography in “The Threesome” complements the film’s tone, capturing the essence of Little Rock, Arkansas, and the intimate spaces where the characters interact. The visual style, characterized by close-ups and natural lighting, creates an authentic atmosphere that enhances the film’s storytelling. The use of sound design and music also plays a significant role, with a mix of contemporary and classic tracks that underscore the emotional beats within the narrative. The film’s sound design is particularly effective in conveying the emotional intimacy and tension between the characters, creating a deeper connection between the audience and the film’s themes.
Critical Reception and Audience Response
Upon its premiere at the 2025 SXSW and subsequent screenings, “The Threesome” received a mixed reception from critics and audiences. Critics appreciated the film’s ambitious attempt to blend serious social issues with the romantic comedy genre, though many noted that the execution was uneven. Audiences found the film challenging but ultimately compelling, particularly in its handling of complex themes such as abortion access and political division.
The film’s strengths lie in its character depth and the performances of its lead actors, Zoey Deutch and Jonah Hauer-King. However, the pacing and the balance between comedy and seriousness were areas of contention, with some finding the film overly predictable and others noting a lack of coherence in the narrative’s second half. Overall, “The Threesome” is a film that provokes discussion and reflection, even if it doesn’t always hit its marks seamlessly.
The Future of Romantic Comedies
“The Threesome” marks a significant step in the evolution of the romantic comedy genre by tackling serious social issues with a blend of humor and drama. The film’s approach to blending these elements is a testament to the genre’s potential to address broader societal concerns. The film’s reception at SXSW and beyond suggests that audiences and critics are increasingly looking for more substantial content within the romantic comedy framework. While “The Threesome” may not be a perfect execution, its impact on the genre is noteworthy, indicating a shift towards more complex and socially conscious narratives. As the romantic comedy genre evolves, “The Threesome” serves as a valuable reference point for filmmakers seeking to innovate and address contemporary issues within the genre.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Chad Hartigan’s “The Threesome” is a complex and ambitious romantic comedy that attempts to subvert traditional genre expectations, but ultimately falls short due to its flawed execution. As discussed in the article, the film’s exploration of non-traditional relationships, polyamory, and the intricacies of human connection are notable, yet its pacing issues, underdeveloped characters, and reliance on convenient plot devices hinder its overall impact. Despite these shortcomings, Hartigan’s willingness to tackle unconventional themes and challenge audience expectations is commendable, and it is this very ambition that makes “The Threesome” a fascinating, albeit imperfect, watch.
The significance of “The Threesome” lies not only in its bold subject matter but also in its representation of a growing trend in contemporary cinema: the push for greater diversity and inclusivity in storytelling. As the film industry continues to evolve, we can expect to see more films that challenge traditional norms and explore unconventional relationships. While “The Threesome” may not be a complete success, it is an important step in this direction, and its flaws serve as a reminder that there is still much work to be done in terms of representation and authentic storytelling.
As we look to the future, it is clear that films like “The Threesome” will play a crucial role in shaping the cinematic landscape. As audiences increasingly demand more diverse and nuanced storytelling, filmmakers will be forced to push the boundaries of what is considered acceptable and explore new, uncharted territories. And so, while “The Threesome” may be an imperfect film, it serves as a beacon of hope for a future where cinema is more inclusive, more daring, and more willing to challenge the status quo.