“Five Blind Dates” may seem like the next big romantic comedy hit, but it falls short of expectations. Despite a talented cast and an intriguing premise, the film struggles to deliver laughs and believable romance. Instead, it offers a gentle exploration of culture, heritage, and family values.
Centered around Lia (played by Chinese-born Shuang Hu), a young Asian woman in Sydney, the story follows her journey as she navigates both her struggling love life and her family’s failing tea shop. When a fortune teller predicts that Lia will meet her soulmate within five dates, her life takes an unexpected turn, offering hope for her romantic and familial challenges.
While the concept of finding love within a tight timeframe before her sister’s wedding is promising, the execution falls short. The film relies heavily on clichés, including the presence of a gay best friend and a makeover montage. Despite its brief runtime of under 90 minutes, the humor feels lacking, leaving audiences waiting for more laughs.
Lia’s character lacks depth and consistency, veering between moments of desperation and indifference, making it challenging to connect with her journey. However, Mason (played by Ilai Swindells), Lia’s best friend, shines as a standout character, leaving viewers wanting more of his involvement in the story.
Despite its comedic shortcomings, “Five Blind Dates” offers insights into cultural dynamics, from the fascination with bubble tea to traditional Chinese practices. However, its predictable ending and lack of innovation leave it feeling stale within the romantic comedy genre.
In conclusion, “Five Blind Dates” provides a bland and uninspired viewing experience. While it may have its moments of sweetness and emotional resonance, it ultimately fails to leave a lasting impression. As the first locally produced feature film in Australia by Prime Video, it falls short of expectations, suggesting room for improvement in future endeavors.