Plan B is a charming and heartfelt comedy that delivers a refreshing take on the classic romcom formula. Directed by Brandon Tamburri, the film follows Piper Brennan, played by the effortlessly talented Jamie Lee, as she navigates the complexities of an unexpected pregnancy and the search for the perfect partner to start a family with. The film's premise may draw comparisons to Knocked Up, but Plan B quickly establishes its own identity, offering a different perspective and a unique blend of humor and emotion.
Jamie Lee shines in the role of Piper, bringing both vulnerability and wit to a character who is easy to root for, even when she's making questionable decisions. It's clear that Lee was born to play this role, and her performance is a standout, making you curious to see more of her work beyond her impressive writing credits. Jon Heder, as the awkward neighbor Evan Ebert, delivers a performance that is equally funny and endearing. While he occasionally slips into his iconic Napoleon Dynamite persona, Heder brings a surprising depth to the character, proving that he has more to offer as a leading man.
The film's supporting cast, featuring Shannon Elizabeth and Kate Flannery, brings a unique flair to the story. However, there are times when Flannery's improv-like delivery feels a bit too on the nose. While Elizabeth's brief appearance can be somewhat distracting, it doesn’t significantly detract from the overall enjoyment of the film. We’ve certainly come a long way from American Pie.
One fun surprise was spotting Anthony Moore during the Lamaze class scene. Having loved his performance in the Netflix show Tires, it was great to see him here, and I could definitely get used to seeing him in more roles.
Tamburri, known for his work on Heredity, demonstrates his versatility as a director, skillfully balancing the film's humor with its more emotional moments. The pacing is brisk, keeping the story engaging from start to finish, and the emotional payoff in the finale is genuinely moving. The film does lose its way slightly in the second act, but it manages to pull everything together by the end, leaving viewers satisfied.
Plan B may not break new ground in the romcom genre, but it does what it sets out to do exceptionally well. It's relatable, sweet, and filled with heart, making it an easy watch for fans of the genre. While I personally enjoyed it, I feel that this film might resonate more with audiences like my mom, wife, or sister. Nevertheless, it's a solid entry in the genre, and I'm excited to see what Brandon Tamburri does next.
Jessie Hobson