Scrambled
review by Bobby Blakey
Writer/actress Leah McKendrick has racked up quite the resume in both categories and looking to expand that with her latest film Scrambled where she is now taking on triple duties as writer/actor and director. The film features a great supporting cast including Ego Nwodim, Andrew Santino, Adam Rodriguez, Laura Cerón, and Clancy Brown, but does it have the heart and humor it promises, or will it fail to make it to term?
Scrambled follows quintessential eternal bridesmaid Nellie Robinson who constantly finds herself between weddings, baby showers, and bad dates. When she begins to feel like the clock is ticking and is faced with bleak romantic prospects, Nellie decides to freeze her eggs — setting her on an empowering journey to a brave new world where she ultimately discovers “the one” she’s looking for might be herself.
I wasn’t sure what to expect heading into this film as I had only seen the poster and nothing more than that. I was pleasantly surprised with an end result that takes on a pretty heavy issue that many women deal with and bring it into the world of the rom com mixed with adult comedy that brings the laughs but keeps the heft intact.
McKendrick brings some great fun and depth to her character, perfectly juggling the directorial and performance nature of the film. She is likable and relatable while poking fun of herself and empowering herself all at once. There is more here than I expected in regard to the messages and all of that is thanks to McKendrick’s skill across the board. This could have been a generic film, but she has infused it with so much more that you can’t help but enjoy the ride.
The supporting cast are all great with Ego Nwodim as her best friend Sheila that
really helps to elevate the overall story. Their chemistry gives those perfect best friend vibes, and the love comes across on screen. Their scenes bring the balance and support both characters need and further to push the narrative of Nellie’s journey forward as more than just a single note character. As good as Nwodim and the rest of the supporting cast is, the weight of it all falls on the shoulders of McKendrick clearly on all aspects and she does a great job. Big props to her for going all in for the story and her performance emotionally, physically and everything in between.
I really enjoyed this film a lot more than I expected to and hope it finds the audience it deserves. It is an important film for women and dealing with the struggles of relationships, childbirth, age and so much more.
Decide for yourself and check out Scrambled in theaters now from Lionsgate.