Reviewed by Rama Gaind.
Director: Peter Hutchings, Rialto Distribution.
For the most part, The Hating Game is an entertaining enemies-to-lovers rom-com. At times, it feels like it largely gets pushed through, settling into predictability, complete with misunderstandings.
Resolving to achieve professional success without compromising her ethics, Lucy Hutton (portrayed by Lucy Hale, Pretty Little Liars) embarks on a ruthless game of one-upmanship against cold and efficient nemesis Joshua Templeman (Austin Stowell, Bridge of Spies), a rivalry that is complicated by her growing attraction to him.
The rival co-workers at a publishing house called Bexley & Gamin are trapped in a shared office together for long hours every week. They’ve become entrenched in an addictive, ridiculous never-ending game of competitive edge. Lucy can’t let Joshua beat her at anything — especially when a huge new promotion is up for the taking. Lucy is driven, smart and is a go-getter. She’s a woman in a man’s world, and she’s fighting for what she wants. Josh is the kind of guy who feels a lot, but lets his head lead the way. He’s logical, pragmatic and goal-oriented, and hasn’t allowed himself to veer off of that path. It’s easier to empathise with him and his feelings towards Lucy as you learn about his past and why he is that way.
The characters remain interesting, with careful consideration given into developing a relationship worth supporting.
Based on the best-selling novel by Sally Thorne, the film is enjoyable for the most part — largely due to Christine Mengert’s (Peace, Love, & Misunderstanding, The Last Keepers) witty and endearing screenplay. Hale and Stowell are pleasant enough leads who nicely fit their respective roles.
The Hating Game is screening in cinemas.
