Universal Pictures' romantic comedy "One Night Only" presents a unique premise: an alternative America where Congress has enacted a law banning premarital sex, with a single 12-hour exception per year. This concept, likened to "The Purge" but for casual sex, is brought to life by director Will Gluck and stars Callum Turner and Monica Barbaro.
The film is set in a society where sensors track individuals, enforcing the ban for the majority of the year. During the "one night only" period, cities like New York transform into scenes of celebration, with couples and singles alike taking advantage of the brief legal window for intimacy. This law, in effect for three years at the time of the film's setting, has generated public dissatisfaction.
Turner plays Owen, a pizzeria owner whose "one night only" plans are disrupted when his longtime girlfriend expresses a desire to explore relationships with neighbors. Barbaro stars as Allie, an aspiring singer who finds herself navigating the night alone after a date cancels last minute. Their paths cross, leading to a series of comedic encounters.
While the premise verges on dystopian, "One Night Only" functions as a romantic comedy, largely due to screenwriter Travis Braun's execution and Gluck's direction. Gluck, known for films like "Easy A" and "Anyone But You," leans into the absurdity of the film's world, including the comical challenge of finding a condom amid widespread sellouts.
Turner, who previously appeared in "Masters of the Air" and the "Fantastic Beasts" franchise, portrays a character balancing cockiness with endearment. Barbaro, recognized for "Top Gun: Maverick" and her Oscar-nominated role in "A Complete Unknown," is praised for her performance as the grounded Allie. Her vocal talents are also highlighted as an added benefit.
Supporting performances include Molly Ringwald and LeVar Burton, who play Owen's mother and her "one night only" partner, respectively. The film runs for 1 hour and 42 minutes and is rated R for sexual material, language, and brief nudity.