Photo via IMDb
By Keith Walther | Rose Law Group Reporter
A standard rom-com formula gets dressed up with a “Purge”-like concept to make for an entertaining date night at the movies. “One Night Only” features two young, attractive rising stars, but it is Monica Barbaro who steals the show. The story’s concept, while silly and unrealistic, hits the mark when it comes to balancing sweet romanticism with bawdy humor.
In an alternate reality of New York, premarital sex is outlawed except for one horny night a year. For pharmaceutical jingle singer Allie (Monica Barbaro), a romantic loner, this is a night she does not look forward to participating in the meat market. Owen (Callum Turner), a local pizzeria owner, was excited to propose to his longtime girlfriend this night until she reveals she wants to enjoy carnal pleasures with another man. It’s not exactly love at first site when Allie and Owen cross paths, but they can’t seem to avoid each other during their crazy sexual misadventures.
After director Will Gluck released a disappointing effort with “Anyone But You” in 2023, he returns to the rom-com genre with more talented actors and a funnier script. Instead of legalizing murder one night a year like in “The Purge,” it is one night of legalized premarital sex, creating a night of debauchery and plenty of comedic opportunities, of which Gluck takes full advantage. While the storyline itself is very simplistic and predictable using every rom-com trope in the book, the concept gives it a unique edge that yields satisfying amusement. Sure, there is no mystery about where the plot is heading, but Gluck incorporates lewd humor along the way that set up some “Superbad” type of situations.
The steady moments of laughter throughout this film make for a fun experience, but it is the swoony romantic moments that supply the film’s lifeblood. Gluck dedicates just as much attention to these scenes as he does to the comedic scenes, generating heartwarming, albeit predictable, acts that hopeless romantics will appreciate. This also lends itself to a rather cheesy climax with wholesome messaging that viewers can see coming a mile away. Because of the boisterous energy and Gluck’s commitment to comedy, however, the pacing is on point with very little downtime.
For any romantic comedy to work, the on-screen chemistry between the two leads needs to be believable. This chemistry does exist between Monica Barbaro and Callum Turner as the two feed off each other with their line delivery and physical comedy. Barbaro delights with her sarcastic wit and biting remarks, while Turner offers tender charm mixed with amusing clumsiness to balance her character nicely. This creates an authentic push and pull between their characters that many will find appealing. This is an improved performance from Callum Turner after his disappointing rom-com “Eternity” last year, but Monica Barbaro carries the day with a compelling performance. Her banter feels natural and quick, driving her scenes at a faster pace with strong comedic instincts. And since her character is a jingle singer, she once again gets to showcase her vocal talents doing her own singing like she did in 2024’s “A Complete Unknown,” which netted her an Oscar nomination. Look for this multi-talented actress to next star opposite Andrew Garfield in “Artificial,” slated for release in January 2027.
The supporting cast offer up their own memorable moments in this movie, led by none other than Molly Ringwald and LeVar Burton. Molly hilariously plays Callum’s character’s mother, while LeVar is her love interest. There is an unexpected scene involving these two and bubble wrap that elicits raucous laughter from the audience. Other standout cameos include Maya Hawke, King Princess, and Michelle Hurd.
If you’re looking for a quality date night at the movies, then this is a solid romantic comedy that should appeal to both of you. Laughs, sappiness, and feel-good vibes could be yours for “One Night Only.” Expect entertaining fulfillment, just don’t expect it to reinvent the wheel.
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