The long weekend is fast approaching, and what better way to spend it than exploring the beauty of Stellies or streaming some great movies for entertainment at home. Check out our top pick, Long Weekend, directed by Stephen Basilone and starring Finn Wittrock and Zoë Chao.
Brief overview
Long Weekend is a romantic comedy-drama that explores the relationship between a struggling writer and her partner during a long weekend, where they confront their future together.
What
Long Weekend is a romantic comedy-drama movie.
Why
The movie beautifully captures the complexities of modern-day relationships in a fun and light-hearted way, making it a perfect weekend watch for couples and anyone looking for a good laugh.
Cast
The movie is directed by Stephen Basilone and stars Finn Wittrock and Zoë Chao as the lead characters, Bart and Ellen. Damon Wayans Jr., Casey Wilson, and Wendi McLendon-Covey also appear in supporting roles.
Synopsis
Long Weekend centers around Bart and Ellen, a couple who are hitting a rough patch in their relationship. Ellen is a struggling writer who is unhappy with her job, while Bart is a successful advertising executive who seems to have his life together. They decide to spend a long weekend together in a picturesque town in upstate New York, hoping to reconnect and get their relationship back on track.
However, their plans take unexpected turns as they confront their differences, personal issues, and past traumas. The tension between them builds up as they interact with the townspeople, attend a friend’s birthday party, and go on a hiking trip. As the weekend progresses, they start to question if they want the same things in life and if their relationship is worth saving.
Plot
The movie starts with Ellen waking up on a seemingly ordinary day, feeling unfulfilled with her job and relationship. She decides to write a resignation letter, but Bart convinces her to stay on board and work on a pitch for a new ad campaign. They both feel the need for a break and decide to spend a few days in the Hudson Valley, where Bart has already booked a cozy Airbnb.
On the way, they stop at a farmer’s market, where Bart encounters a ghost from his past, Lyle (Damon Wayans Jr.), who used to date Ellen and left a lasting impression. Lyle is now a music producer and invites them both to a party that night. Ellen is hesitant, but Bart convinces her to go, and they end up having a great time, although Ellen still feels conflicted about Lyle’s presence.
The next day, they go on a hiking trip, where Bart reveals his plans to propose to Ellen. However, Ellen is not ready for marriage and expresses her doubts about their future. They get into a heated argument and decide to go their separate ways, Ellen to a nearby café, and Bart back to the Airbnb.
As the night falls, Ellen meets a friendly local, Harmony (Wendi McLendon-Covey), who shares her own relationship problems and encourages Ellen to follow her heart. Ellen realizes that she still loves Bart and rushes back to the Airbnb, only to find out that Bart has left. In a desperate attempt to find him, she calls Lyle, who agrees to take her to a lake where Bart is expected to be.
They manage to find Bart, and Ellen finally opens up about her fears and insecurities. Bart assures her that he will wait for her and that they will figure things out together. Ellen accepts Bart’s proposal, and they spend the night watching the stars and talking about their dreams and goals for the future.
Review
Long Weekend is a delightful romantic comedy-drama that skillfully juggles humor and serious themes. The script by Stephen Basilone is witty, insightful, and emotionally resonant, offering a realistic portrayal of modern-day relationships and the struggles that come with them.
The talented cast delivers excellent performances, with Finn Wittrock and Zoë Chao sharing great chemistry and showcasing their range as actors. Damon Wayans Jr., Casey Wilson, and Wendi McLendon-Covey also provide funny and memorable moments.
The beautiful location and the stunning cinematography by Alexander Burgos add to the movie’s charm, creating a cozy and inviting atmosphere.
Overall, Long Weekend is a must-watch for anyone looking for a feel-good movie that can warm the heart and make you laugh.
Characters & Performance
Finn Wittrock and Zoë Chao are perfectly cast as Bart and Ellen, bringing depth and nuance to their roles. They manage to convey the characters’ flaws, vulnerabilities, and strengths, making them relatable and engaging.
Damon Wayans Jr., Casey Wilson, and Wendi McLendon-Covey provide excellent supporting performances, adding humor and heart to the story.
Effects
The movie doesn’t rely on special effects, but the natural scenery and the cozy interiors enhance the movie’s charm, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere.
Soundtrack
The movie features a great soundtrack, with a mix of indie and classic songs that perfectly complement the mood and tone of the story.
The soundtrack includes songs like “I Want to Hold Your Hand” by The Beatles, “Home” by Edward Sharpe and the Magnetic Zeros and “Endlessly” by The Head and the Heart, among others.
Cinematography
The beautiful location and the stunning cinematography by Alexander Burgos add to the movie’s charm, creating a cozy and inviting atmosphere.
Directing
Stephen Basilone has done a great job directing Long Weekend, offering a fresh and authentic take on the romantic comedy-drama genre. He manages to create a believable and relatable world, where the characters can grow and evolve organically.
