VOICEMAILS FOR ISABELLE is a sweet rom-com interwoven with sadness and grief. It offers an honest look at moments in life that can make you laugh, cry, and love all at once. It validates that we are meant to move forward even when we think it is impossible to endure. It is a gentle reminder that our timelines are fleeting. Although the film relies on serendipitous story content, it will guide viewers to believe in the wonders of the universe.
Jill (Zoey Deutch) is the heart of VOICEMAILS FOR ISABELLE. Her heartfelt, zany performance captured the totality of loss while finding inner strength and a sense of coming of age. Her fast-paced dialogue and heavenly monologues evoked a unique kinship with anyone who has lost someone extremely close while still trying to navigate life’s chores and responsibilities. Her take had a light, youthful, ouch which rang true.
The supporting cast was a delight, featuring Nick Offerman, Harry Shum Jr., Leah McKendrick, Clara Bravo, and the hunky Nick Robinson. The movie took me to memorable scenes of YOU’VE GOT MAIL and even SLEEPLESS IN SEATTLE. It was great fun to rediscover how classic romance stories can be freshly remade into new, imaginative plots and character arcs.
VOICEMAILS FOR ISABELLE succeeds at what it sets out to do. Yes, it is predictable, but it will whisk viewers to emotional heights. I know because there were tears in my eyes when the credits rolled. Sometimes we all have to agree that anything is possible if we just let go.
It is streaming on Netflix.
