The Vibrant and Authentic Love Story of Rye Lane
- Joao Nsita
- Jun 5, 2023
- 3 min read
Updated: Mar 5, 2024
Disney+//20th Century Studios
Introduction
The romantic comedy (rom-com) genre, once a box-office favorite, has witnessed a decline in recent years. However, with films like "Rye Lane," the genre appears to be experiencing a resurgence, reviving the once-stale corner of cinema with a fresh, delightful, and utterly delightful perspective.
The Characters
Yas: A Vibrant Aspiring Designer
In "Rye Lane," we meet Yas, a bright, bold aspiring costume designer with a sunny outlook on life. She is an independent, impulsive character who recently went through a breakup. Yet, her character is far from one-note – the depth to her story unfolds throughout the movie, revealing a multifaceted personality.
Disney+//20th Century Studios
Dom: A Heartbroken Accountant
Opposite Yas is Dom, a heartbroken, twenty-something accountant who has just moved back to his family home. He is quiet, reserved, and spends his days playing video games, while his mother makes him comforting meals. Despite his heartbreak and reserved demeanor, Dom becomes an endearing character, displaying a nuanced role rarely seen for Black male actors in the romantic lead.
The Supporting Cast
In addition to the compelling leads, "Rye Lane" features a talented supporting cast that includes Karene Peter, who plays Dom's ex-girlfriend Gia, and Benjamin Sarpong-Broni as her new boyfriend, Eric. Their performances, along with other guest appearances, add depth and humor to the film, contributing to its overall charm.
Disney+//20th Century Studios
The Film's Setting
The Vibrant South London
"Rye Lane" is set in the bustling streets of South East London, specifically Peckham and Brixton, featuring diverse, historic market stalls, and newly gentrified Instagrammable spots. The film showcases these locations with a real sense of place, making the screen buzz with life.
The Narrative
A New Romance in the Air
Throughout one sunny day, Yas and Dom traverse South London, bonding over their failed past relationships and settling scores with their respective exes. As the day progresses, they journey from one iconic South London location to another, leading to various situations that gradually reveal their similarities.
The Evolution of Yas and Dom's Relationship
The narrative of "Rye Lane" follows the traditional rom-com formula. Yas and Dom's initial chemistry builds up to a hopeful kiss, followed by a devastating blow that threatens to tear them apart. However, they resolve their problems with a grand gesture, harking back to their first conversation.
The script, by Nathan Bryon and Tom Melia, places value in the simplicity of a conversation, allowing the two characters to spend a considerable part of the film hanging out and getting to know each other. This approach, combined with the diversity of the cast, makes "Rye Lane" more representative of London's neighborhoods than most capital-set rom-coms.
Disney+//20th Century Studios
Visual Aesthetics
The Colorful Presentation of Rye Lane
One of the most striking aspects of "Rye Lane" is its visual aesthetics. The film is imbued with a fresh coat of brightly colored paint and a shot of nuclear-nitro energy. The use of a fisheye lens and bold colors brings a playful and hopeful tone to the film. The visual pop extends to everything from editing to costume choices, like Dom's pink Converse shoes and Yas's purple trainers.
The Impact of Rye Lane
Refreshing Diversity in Rom-Com
"Rye Lane" is an important milestone in the history of rom-coms. It is one of the first Black British rom-coms to hit the silver screens, featuring Black talent both in front of and behind the camera. This film is a testament to the potential of diversity in the genre, adding a unique charm that is both funny and relatable.
Disney+//20th Century Studios
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Conclusion
"Rye Lane" is a delightful reinvention of the rom-com, bringing a fresh perspective to the genre. With its charismatic leads, vibrant setting, and colorful visuals, the film is a joy to watch. Despite its light and slight approach, "Rye Lane" offers a rich and engaging narrative, leaving viewers on a high. It is not just a film; it's a shot in the arm for future romantic comedies.
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