by Henry Pham
There are moments that made me laugh out loud and others as well. The story beautifully balances humor and drama, reminding us that even in relationships (whether healthy or dysfunctional), there are darkest moments, and life still finds ways to make us feel emotional. And it works thanks to Olivia Wilde and her entire filmmaking team. A24’s The Invite is a comedy-drama movie directed by Olivia Wilde that lies at the center of Joe and Angela’s marriage. However, when they invite their enigmatic upstairs neighbors for a dinner party, the night spirals into unexpected places. The real question is: have they reignited the spark, or are they willing to separate to make each other happy?
Olivia Wilde directs and stars as Angela, the wife of Joe (Seth Rogen, Apple TV’s The Studio), in her third directorial project after Booksmart and Don’t Worry Darling. Oscar winner Penélope Cruz (Vicky Cristina Barcelona) and Oscar nominee Edward Norton (Primal Fear, American History X, Birdman, and A Complete Unknown) appear as Pína and Hawk, a vibrant couple. Joe is a band teacher, and Angela is an artist. The couple frequently debates their plans to host neighbors for dinner, leading to honest conversations about their relationship and their unseen daughter. Rogen brings warmth, vulnerability, and humor to his role, while Wilde’s nuanced performance creates authentic chemistry between the leads. Cruz and Norton provide strong comedic support, enhancing the dynamic of the main cast.
Written by Will McCormack (If Anything Happens I Love You) and Rashida Jones (NBC’s Parks and Recreation), the film is an English-language remake of the 2020 Spanish comedy Sentimental, directed by Cesc Gay and based on his stage play Els veïns de dalt / Los vecinos de arriba. The narrative centers on Joe and Angela’s complex relationship, and the supporting characters are also well-developed. Although Rogen and Wilde lead, all four actors serve as central protagonists. The music adds an orchestral quality that enriches the story and Rogen’s character. The screenplay and editing are well-paced, resulting in an engaging and emotionally resonant film. While primarily a comedy, the film’s dramatic elements provide additional depth.
With strong, comedic performances from the foursome, a clever concept, and an emotional core that lingers throughout the movie, A24’s The Invite is a moving, uplifting film that reminds us how powerful relationships can be. It’s funny, heartfelt, and wonderfully sincere. Another surprisingly thing is that since it’s a low-budget movie, this film has shot in over three weeks, with the main couple’s house serving as the film’s main setting. It is a must-watch for anyone who loves comedies with substance. For your information, this movie clocks in at 107 minutes long and would be the perfect night (and a perfect main dish) for adults and couples only.
Olivia Wilde and her acting team have brought a humorous yet forgiving performance in A24’s The Invite. I enjoyed every scene of this, as most of the film delivers a whole lot of laughs and surprises. But that’s how comedy movies work on every level. I know we keep getting lots of comedy movies that are fun, but not perfect. But for this, it’s absolutely raw and forgiving. To enhance this experience, please add wine and cheese, as well as the charcuterie board, on your hand. That will keep your peaceful, quiet night busy.
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