'Voicemails for Isabelle' is Netflix's latest big hit - but viewers should expect tears
Key Points:
- Netflix's new romantic comedy "Voicemails for Isabelle," released on June 19, has become the platform's top film in the U.S., receiving largely positive reviews for its blend of romance and grief.
- The film stars Zoey Deutch as Jill, a grieving chef who copes with her sister Isabelle's death by leaving voicemails on her phone, which have been reassigned to a stranger, leading to an unexpected emotional connection.
- Unlike typical rom-coms, the story deals with mature themes of loss and healing, inspired by writer-director Leah McKendrick's real-life relationship with her sister, and features a soundtrack including Robyn's "Dancing on My Own" to heighten its emotional impact.
- The cast includes Nick Robinson, Harry Shum Jr., Toby Sandeman, and Nick Offerman, contributing to the film's appeal beyond the usual younger-skewing romance genre.
- Critics and audiences have praised the film's performances and emotional depth, with an 84% critic score on Rotten Tomatoes, a 91% audience score, and positive reviews from The New York Times, AV Club, and Screen Rant.