The Idea of You Review: Anne Hathaway and Nicholas Galitzine Spark Intense Age-Difference Romance

The Idea of You is like a movie version of vodka infused with Skittles. It has a sweet, candy-like appeal that makes viewers consume it eagerly, only to be later hit by its mature substance.

Adapted from Robinne Lee’s novel of the same name, the film (now streaming on Prime Video) stars Anne Hathaway as Solène, a 40-year-old art dealer, who embarks on an unlikely romance with 24-year-old singer Hayes Campbell, played by Nicholas Galitzine. The connection sparks at Coachella when Solène, who is there with her daughter Izzy (played by Ella Rubin), ends up in Hayes' trailer. The chemistry between them intensifies when Hayes buys everything at Solène’s art gallery in Los Angeles, making his intentions clear.

Soon, Solène dives into Hayes' world, jetting off to New York and around the globe while Izzy is away at summer camp. Yet, their fragile relationship can only withstand so much external pressure.

Many have dismissed The Idea of You as mere Harry Styles fan fiction, with a sneer. While Hayes and Harry share similarities, including tattoos and heartthrob status, the film and performances are far more nuanced and emotionally rich than that label suggests. Yes, the film offers an entertaining May-December romance featuring a suburban mom rediscovering herself with a younger man, complete with catchy tunes from Hayes’ band, August Moon, and intimate moments on private beaches. August Moon and Hayes Campbell are crafted with more detail than some current musical acts, with meticulously choreographed performances at Coachella.

Despite its exuberant joy, the film maintains depth, thanks to director Michael Showalter (known for Search Party and Spoiler Alert), co-writer Jennifer Westfeldt (from Kissing Jessica Stein), and the cast. Hathaway shines with the radiant energy that first made her famous, now with added layers from age and experience. Her portrayal of Solène, who trades a Range Rover and Malibu apartment for a Subaru and a house in Silver Lake, feels authentic and relatable. The film's settings are realistic and lived-in, thanks to Showalter’s direction.

Hathaway’s Solène lives out a fantasy with Hayes, complicated by their age difference and societal judgments. Hathaway strikes a perfect balance between the intoxicating allure of the romance and the harsh reality of such a relationship.

Galitzine is the ideal co-star, embodying the essence of a boy-band heartthrob with a touch of depth. His portrayal of Hayes is both enigmatic and familiar, capable of deep emotional exchanges while remaining intriguingly elusive. Galitzine’s chemistry with Hathaway feels natural and genuine, from their first meeting to their intimate moments.

The film's eroticism is palpable without resorting to explicit nudity, capturing the essence of sexiness through subtle gestures and meaningful glances. Showalter’s direction ensures the film remains sexy in its own understated way.

The film's only shortcoming lies in its handling of the central conflict. While tabloids invade Solène and Hayes' privacy, this intrusion feels somewhat underdeveloped. The media's impact on Solène's life and her decisions is portrayed as less significant than it should be. The novel conveys this better, showing how Solène's choices affect her inner life more deeply.

Despite this minor flaw, The Idea of You is a thoroughly enjoyable film. It demonstrates genuine affection from its creators and offers a heartfelt and cathartic exploration of midlife and unexpected connections. The film excels in presenting a real and beautiful story, surpassing the mere concept. Rating: B+