Director: Michael Dowse
Writer: Elan Mastai
Starring: Daniel Radcliffe, Zoe Kazan, Megan Park, Adam Driver
Runtime: 99 minutes
Rating: 14A
Every Torontonian knows that many films are filmed right here in our city, yet few use Toronto as their actual setting. The F Word is a sweet Canadian comedy starring a high-profile American actor that is content to remain true to its roots and locate itself exactly where it is shot. Charming and honest, this film may not be ground breaking, but it cannot help but enchant.
The F Word tells the story of two socially awkward individuals, Wallace (Daniel Radcliffe) and Chantry (Zoe Kazan), who meet at a party, become fast friends, and appear destined to be together romantically. Even friends of the pair believe a relationship to be inevitable, trying various strategies and schemes to set them up. Unfortunately, however, Chantry already has a long-term live-in boyfriend whose presence threatens to tear the two apart. Like the iconic When Harry Met Sally before it, this film ultimately begs the question, Can a man and a woman truly be “just friends”?
Wallace and Chantry are real and honest characters, and their conversations seem so authentic that we can imagine having them ourselves. The two are so likeable that it is almost unbearable to see them unhappy; their emotions appear genuine and translate easily to the audience. One of this year’s TIFF Rising Stars, Canadian Megan Park, is entertaining as Chantry’s promiscuous sister Dalia, as is Adam Driver as Wallace’s best friend Allan. Driver should be distinguished as a rising star, too; he also appears in this year’s Festival film Tracks, and he presents noteworthy performances in both movies.
There is a whimsical quality to this film as well. Chantry works as an animator, and her artwork often comes to life on the screen to reflect her mood. Dreamy, fairy-like music adds to the tone of whimsy. This film is not necessarily fun or happy, however, as the characters spend a lot of time being sad. As the film progresses, it begins to circle around the main problem continuously without addressing it, and some of the scenes do border on romantic clichés. Nonetheless, these flaws are quite minor, as it is easy to become invested in Wallace and Chantry’s relationship and to simply sit back and root for it to succeed.
It is possible that The F Word will become to Toronto what When Harry Met Sally is to New York. Not only do the films share themes, they both feature settings around their respective cities – such as a diner – that have the potential to become icons. It is undeniably fun to see recognizable landmarks up on the big screen, aiding in the appeal of this film to TIFF audiences. As well as the question of friendship between opposite sexes, the movie also addresses the subject of the importance of fidelity. There is a heart of gold at the centre of this film, and it is one worth finding.
Photo Credits: Toronto International Film Festival
