‘Lonely Planet’ Review – A Very Lonely Film That Misses All Its Potential

As someone who loves lighthearted rom-coms, Lonely Planet is anything but; it’s exactly what the title suggests—a lonely movie devoid of any real romance. This film attempts to capture the magic of unexpected connections and personal growth but ends up feeling more like a three-hour lecture on watching paint dry. With a promising setup and a talented cast, it sadly fails to deliver a compelling narrative that resonates with anyone who has a pulse.

The story follows Katherine Loewe, played by the wonderful Laura Dern, an accomplished novelist who finds herself at a crossroads—or more accurately, a dead-end. After being kicked out of her ex’s home, Katherine decides to escape to a picturesque writers’ retreat in Marrakesh, Morocco. You’d think this stunning backdrop would ignite some creative sparks, but alas, it seems to have turned her into a hermit. Instead of soaking up the sun or mingling with other writers, she chooses to isolate herself in her room, which really makes you wonder why she didn’t just stay at home and binge-watch her favorite series.

Enter Owen, played by Liam Hemsworth, who is at the retreat to support his girlfriend, Lily (Diana Silvers), who is all about the writerly life and desperately trying to pretend Owen is remotely interested in it. Spoiler alert: he’s not. With a background in finance, Owen seems as out of place in a writers’ retreat as a cat at a dog show. Initially, he fades into the background like a poorly designed piece of furniture, but as the narrative unfolds, it becomes clear that he and Katherine share an inexplicable connection—mostly rooted in both of them being utterly bored.

Their interactions are meant to serve as a spark of hope amidst Katherine’s struggles, but instead, they feel awkward and forced, like a search for Wi-Fi in a remote desert. They start as companions, sharing hesitant laughs and conversations that seem stiff and rehearsed. While Dern brings her signature warmth to the role, even the talented Laura Dern can’t save this film from mediocrity. The chemistry between her and Hemsworth comes off as strained, lacking the natural connection that makes a romance believable. What the film hints at as a budding romance instead resembles a wilted plant in need of care, leaving viewers wanting more.

And let’s talk about the Moroccan backdrop—gorgeous, absolutely! Unfortunately, it’s wasted on this plot. Instead of leveraging the vibrant scenery to deepen the characters’ experiences, we get aimless conversations that lead nowhere. It’s as if they took a vacation to a stunning location and forgot to pack the actual story. Moments that could have been filled with adventure and discovery are squandered on discussions about… well, nothing. If you’re looking for meaningful dialogue, you’d have better luck watching paint dry on the wall. The beautiful setting feels like a cruel tease, reminding us of what could have been while we’re left staring at the screen, wondering when the real plot will kick in.

Director Susannah Grant, known for her work as a screenwriter on films like Erin Brockovich, seems to miss the mark with her directorial approach here. Her direction lacks the energy and passion needed to truly engage the audience, resulting in a film that feels more like a chore than an experience. Instead of offering a compelling exploration of human connections and the creative process, we’re left with a formulaic narrative that plods along at a frustrating pace. Even Dern’s commendable performance struggles to elevate the material, leaving viewers wishing for a stronger script to match her talent.

Despite a promising premise, Lonely Planet ultimately stumbles, trapped in a narrative desert where the sun shines but the story doesn’t. Clocking in at just 94 minutes, the film feels like an endless journey, dragging through scenes that lack both tension and excitement. The characters, though portrayed by talented actors, remain frustratingly distant, their interactions scripted and uninspired, leaving the audience yearning for genuine connection. By the time we reach the lackluster third act, any sense of investment has evaporated, much like a glass of water in the Sahara. It’s a reminder that a beautiful setting and a commendable cast are not enough to elevate a film devoid of emotional depth or narrative spark.

In a year filled with romantic films that beautifully capture the essence of love and connection, Lonely Planet emerges as a notable disappointment. It serves as a stark reminder that even the most stunning scenery and talented cast cannot substitute for a compelling narrative. The film meanders aimlessly, failing to deliver the emotional depth that audiences crave, and ultimately falls flat in its aspirations. If only it had embraced the strength of a better script, perhaps it could have traversed the vast desert of mediocrity and delivered something truly memorable. Instead, it lingers in the shadows, a missed opportunity that leaves us longing for the spark that never ignites.

Lonely Planet is currently available to stream on Netflix.