If you’re a rom-com lover, you’re probably going to enjoy this one. 💕
I checked out the new independent film 40 Dates and 40 Nights—which hits select theaters on June 26th and VOD on June 30th—and honestly? I had a really good time with it.
Now, I always go into rom-coms wondering if they’re going to forget the “com” part of the equation, because let’s be real: sometimes the comedy is totally missing. But this one actually had me laughing. It’s cute, it’s fun, and it’s just a great ride.
The Setup: Dating for Rent
The story follows Leah, who is completely burned out from the modern dating scene. To fix her situation, she makes a deal with her eccentric grandmother: go on 40 dates, and her grandmother will pay her rent for a year. The goal? Help Leah find love, and maybe realize she has a little bit of self-work to do along the way.
The Verdict on the Tropes: Is it predictable? Is it tropey? Absolutely. But that’s also kind of what you expect from a rom-com. You know exactly what you’re getting into, and it embraces it.
Standout Performances
The biggest surprise for me was Bailee Madison. Not only does she star in the film, but she’s also a producer, and she absolutely carried this role. Her comedic timing, facial expressions, and delivery were so fun to watch. She made Leah feel like a real, believable person.
A few other cast highlights:
- Joel Courtney was great as always.
- Annie Potts (playing the grandmother) can literally do no wrong. She always brings that quirky, lovable energy to the screen.
Final Thoughts
If you’re currently in your 20s and navigating the nightmare that is the modern dating world, I think there’s a lot here you’ll relate to. I may not be in that world anymore 😂 but I could still appreciate the humor and the heart behind it.
It’s a fun little independent rom-com that knows exactly what it is. Check it out if you’re looking for something cute, light, and genuinely funny!
