Amazon Prime Video's latest romance-drama, ‘The Last Sunrise,’ is drawing criticism for its predictable plot and underdeveloped characters. The film, adapted from author Anna Todd's standalone novel, features a cast including Maia Reficco, Fernando Lindez, and Eva Longoria, with direction by Carlson Young. However, reviews suggest that the star power and attractive filming location in Mallorca are insufficient to elevate the movie beyond its generic narrative.
Plot and Character Development Issues
The story centers on Ry (Reficco), a professional dancer who is diagnosed with epilepsy. Her treatment options involve surgery with memory risks or medication that leaves her feeling numb. She opts for medication but stops taking it during a trip to Mallorca, seeking to experience emotions more fully, particularly those sparked by a local fisherman named Julian (Lindez). This decision is presented as a catalyst for drama.
A significant conflict arises from the opposing interests of Ry's mother, Isolde (Longoria), who heads a hotel conglomerate aiming to build a resort on land owned by Julian's family. The film also introduces Julian's secret debts to local individuals, providing a secondary source of tension. Critics have pointed out that Ry is portrayed as a passive protagonist, with events happening to her rather than her driving the narrative. Her character is described as lacking agency and depth, making it difficult for viewers to invest in her journey.
Production and Visuals
The film's visual style is described as bright, crisp, and digital, but also soulless and depthless, typical of ambitionless direct-to-streaming romances. While the Mallorca setting offers scenic views, the cinematography is seen as little more than visually appealing postcards that fail to compensate for the weak storytelling. The pacing and conflict resolution in the third act are also criticized for being uninspired and anticlimactic.
Critical Reception
Reviewers have likened ‘The Last Sunrise’ to simplistic young adult romances and formulaic romantic dramas, noting a lack of originality. The screenplay is said to offer minimal inspiration to the cast, with only Chloe Sweetlove, playing a supporting role as Ry's friend Amara, noted for a bubbly presence and light comic relief. The film includes moderate sex scenes and a nude beach sequence, but these are not considered significant enough to elevate the R rating.
Ultimately, ‘The Last Sunrise’ is labeled a dull romance between two characters who fail to generate significant emotional heat, despite the picturesque backdrop. The film is recommended for skipping due to its predictable nature and lack of compelling narrative or character development.