Chennai, August 27: Tamil audiences are finally getting a theatrical taste of the much-discussed English-language romantic thriller "Hi," which has been generating curiosity primarily due to its unusual narrative hook and the presence of actress Geraldine Viswanathan in a key supporting role. The film, which premiered in July last year, is now finding a fresh wave of conversation among regional movie buffs, prompting us to take a closer look at what the buzz is all about. Directed by Sophie Brooks, this 95-minute feature attempts to walk a tightrope between sweet romance and unsettling psychological drama, centering on a relationship that unravels in the most unexpected way.
At its core, "Hi" examines the fragile early stages of a modern relationship through the eyes of Iris, played with infectious energy by Molly Gordon. The premise is both simple and deeply relatable for anyone who has ever overthought a budding romance. Iris and her love interest, Isaac, portrayed by Logan Lerman, decide to take their first weekend trip together. On paper, everything appears perfect, but the trip takes a sharp turn when Isaac casually mentions that he hadn’t realized they were officially a couple. This single line acts as the catalyst for the entire film, sending Iris into a spiral of confusion and denial. Rather than accepting the mismatch, she becomes convinced that Isaac is merely forgetful or overwhelmed, and she embarks on a mission to prove to him - and to herself - that they are destined to be together.
What follows is a descent into increasingly outrageous behavior. Iris’s quest moves from heartfelt to hilariously alarming to genuinely concerning, blurring the line between romantic persistence and obsessive behavior. The film's genre classification lists it as a romance, comedy, and thriller, which is an ambitious trifecta. Director Sophie Brooks seems intent on keeping viewers off-balance, never fully committing to a laugh-out-loud comedy nor a dark psychological thriller. Instead, the tone shifts frequently, which has proven to be a point of division among critics and general audiences alike. Some see this unpredictability as a clever reflection of Iris's own unstable mental state, while others feel the film cannot decide what it truly wants to be.
For Tamil movie enthusiasts who are used to masala-filled entertainers, the pacing of "Hi" might feel quite different. The film is a character study more than a plot-driven narrative. There are no massive confrontations or dramatic song-and-dance sequences; instead, the tension builds through awkward silences, irrational decisions, and the quiet discomfort of watching someone force a connection that might not exist. The humor, when it does appear, is often dry and situational, relying heavily on the charisma of its two leads. The core question the film poses - what happens when two people have vastly different definitions of a relationship - is timeless, and it’s worked well in this one-weekend setting, giving the story a claustrophobic intimacy that is hard to shake off.
Performance-wise, the film rests squarely on the shoulders of Molly Gordon. She brings a compelling mix of vulnerability and manic determination to Iris, making her simultaneously sympathetic and unnerving. It’s a demanding role that requires the audience to root for her even when her actions are clearly crossing lines. Logan Lerman, as the bewildered Isaac, plays the straight man effectively. He exudes a kind of passive confusion that makes his character believable; his reactions range from mild amusement to genuine fear, and he grounds the story when Iris’s antics threaten to go overboard. The supporting cast adds texture, particularly Geraldine Viswanathan as Max, who pops up in a role that brings a welcome dose of grounded realism amid the unfolding chaos. Her scenes offer a brief respite from the central couple's increasingly toxic dynamic.
Now, let’s address the elephant in the room for those reading this review for a quick verdict. The film has a TMDb rating of 6.283/10 and an IMDb score of 6.2/10. These mid-range numbers indicate that "Hi" is neither a masterpiece nor a disaster. It falls into that awkward category of films that are clearly well-made but might not land with a broad audience. The thriller element is present, but it’s subtle. The true source of tension isn't a villain or a chase scene; it’s the deeply uncomfortable realization that Iris may not be just lovesick, but someone who is losing her grip on reality. For viewers who appreciate slow-burn character arcs and are willing to sit with discomfort, the film offers a rewarding, thought-provoking experience. However, if you’re expecting a straightforward romantic comedy with a happy ending, the film’s third act might leave you scratching your head.
It is also important to note that "Hi" has a relatively short runtime of 95 minutes. To the film’s credit, it uses this time efficiently, never dragging its feet. The story moves at a brisk pace, ensuring that the audience is always engaged, even when the protagonist’s choices become maddening. The film also benefits from a solid supporting cast, including John Reynolds as Kenny, David Cross as Steve, and Polly Draper as Mom, who each add layers to the narrative without overstaying their welcome.
So, what is the final word on "Hi"? It is a polarizing film that succeeds in being memorable. The central relationship between Iris and Isaac is a fascinatingly messy case study of communication failure, and the film doesn't offer easy answers. It challenges the viewer to question what "meant to be" actually means, and whether love can survive when one person is living in a completely different reality. While it might not be the ideal weekend watch for those seeking light-hearted romance, it is definitely worth a look for anyone interested in a clever, character-driven story that lingers long after the credits roll. The chemistry between Gordon and Lerman is palpable, and even when the plot makes you uneasy, you can’t look away. If you enjoy films that take risks and blur genre boundaries, "Hi" is a curious little gem waiting to be discovered.
Source: Filmibeat Tamil
