The romantic comedy "One Night Only" presents a unique premise: a near-future United States where premarital sex is outlawed, with a single, 12-hour annual reprieve for single individuals.
While not officially connected to "The Purge" franchise, the film shares Universal Studios as a parent studio and offers a comedic take on similar dystopian concepts. Writer-director Will Gluck, known for "Friends with Benefits" and "Anyone But You," has explored the intricate rules of this fictional world, though the film functions as a romantic comedy rather than a deep dive into its sci-fi or political underpinnings.
In "One Night Only," the prohibition specifically targets "premarital" sexual activity. While characters often refer to sex as penetrative intercourse, the film suggests the ban is broad, with a public safety sign indicating that any sexual acts involving more than one unmarried person are illegal. Masturbation, however, appears to be permitted.
The law is not exclusively directed at heterosexual relationships, though the film vaguely implies a greater impact on heterosexual individuals without explicit explanation. The narrative suggests that non-heterosexual individuals may be more accustomed to navigating legal scrutiny of their sex lives.
Enforcement of the sex ban relies on biometric implants worn on wrists, which reportedly measure arousal and physical contact. These devices are designed to alert authorities if two unmarried individuals (indicated by a red biometric stamp, as opposed to green for married) exhibit signs of sexual activity in close proximity. The exact definition of "close proximity" remains ambiguous within the film.
Public support for the bill was reportedly minimal, yet it was passed by Congress as a measure to promote marriage and reduce rates of STDs and teen pregnancy. The film implies this law is a commentary on contemporary issues surrounding reproductive rights and government restrictions. While protests occur and calls for repeal are voiced, most citizens, including the film's protagonists Owen (Callum Turner) and Allie (Monica Barbaro), seem to view the law more as an obstacle to romantic relationships than a severe form of oppression.
The 12-hour period of legal premarital sex is framed as an event akin to Valentine's Day or New Year's Eve, a time for romantic abandon. Many choose not to participate, but the plot centers on Owen and Allie, who find themselves seeking connections during this window. Owen's girlfriend opts to use the time for a different encounter, leaving Owen to search for a last-minute hookup, complicating his plans to propose.
Adding another layer of regulation, unprotected sex remains illegal even during the 12-hour period, requiring the use of condoms. This rule is presented as a source of comedic complications.
Allie's motivations are portrayed as more focused on finding genuine connection, making her participation in the temporary sexual liberalization somewhat perplexing. The film uses the concept of the premarital sex purge as a metaphor for various high-pressure situations faced by single people, such as finding a date or a companion for social events.
The narrative follows Allie and Owen as they unexpectedly cross paths and engage in banter and flirtation, developing a connection amidst the film's premise. The movie combines lighthearted yearning with comedic moments, with both lead actors delivering charismatic performances. "One Night Only" is positioned as an entertaining, contemporary romantic comedy rather than a future classic.