Happiness for Beginners – Movie Review
Sneha Jaiswal (Twitter | Instagram)
If you are discontent with your life and need a reboot – travel. That seems to be the easiest answer for a lot of people and tonnes of online ‘influencers’ will have you believe the same. Pinning her hopes in the power of nature and travel, Helen, a 37-year-old teacher in the 2023 Netflix film “Happiness for Beginners,” signs up for a week-long hike along the Appalachian Mountains. She believes it might be the fresh start she needs to get over her divorce and past life.
Directed by Vicky Wight and based on Katherine Center’s book, “Happiness for Beginners” presents straightforward romantic tale set in the wilderness. Playing the lead role of Helen is Ellie Kemper, who excitedly prepares for her days-long adventure in nature, only to be taken aback when she discovers her brother’s best-friend, Jake (Luke Grimes), is also part of her hiking group. Questions arise – is Jake’s presence a mere coincidence, a scheme by the family to keep an eye on her, or does it hint at a hidden romantic interest?
The film’s scenic Appalachian trail backdrop offers beautiful cinematography with a diverse color palette, ranging from the splendid autumn hues of yellow and green to a fleeting encounter with snow. Most of the story unfolds in the great outdoors, featuring lot of hiking, heartfelt conversations, camping and complications that may arise when you are out in the wild. Helen’s hiking group consists of eight individuals, each introduced in a fun and engaging manner before they embark on their mountain adventure.
Ben Cook portrays the serious leader Beckett, who is strict with rules and has no time for slackers. He appears to be quite young to be in such a guiding role, making it amusing when Helen asks him, “How old are you?” while he inquires participants if they have any questions. Because as a viewer, you are pretty much wondering the same thing! Nico Santos has the most fun character, he plays the chatty Hugh, who immediately befriends Helen and tries to bond over the fact that they are probably the only participants over 30.
Ellie Kemper is goofy and cute as Helen and might reminded me of Renée Zellweger, who became a rom-com sweetheart with the Bridget Jones movies. Luke Grimes as Jake, doctor turned animal enthusiast, is a grounded character who wins over most of the hiking group immediately with his charisma. Shayvawn Webster plays the gorgeous Windy, Helen’s tent-mate, who develops a huge crush on Jake, giving us a slightly cliched love triangle, but minus drama and negativity.
While the supporting cast adds an entertaining dynamic to the group, there isn’t enough time in the film to fully explore their characters. Despite this, “Happiness for Beginners” serves as a feel-good reminder for those who have experienced hiking trips and treks, highlighting the joy of meeting new people and exploring nature. The film also showcases the familiar archetypes encountered during such adventures, from the over-confident hiker leading the pack to the one struggling to keep up, and the responsible caretaker looking after others.
“Happiness for Beginners” could have been even more enjoyable if it had focused solely on the camaraderie and comedic interactions between a group of strangers attempting to conquer a challenging hiking trail. But the romance is sweet, almost like a Christmas themed Hallmark movie. An endearing exchange in the climax between Helen and her younger brother about vowing to be better siblings warmly ties up the tale.
It’s a 7 on 10 from me. Stream the film on Netflix.
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