Prime Video's New Rom-Com The Love Hypothesis Criticized For Lack of Star Chemistry
A new romantic comedy on Prime Video is being called out for a central flaw. According to a review from MovieWeb, "The Love Hypothesis" suffers from a distinct lack of chemistry between its two leads.
The film, based on Ali Hazelwood's novel, follows PhD student Olive Smith (Lili Reinhart) who enters a fake-dating arrangement with intimidating professor Dr. Adam Carlsen (Tom Bateman). The review notes that while the supporting cast brings humor and the script hits standard rom-com beats, the core relationship falters.
MovieWeb's critique centers on the performances. It claims Bateman's Adam is underwritten, leaving little for the audience to connect with, and that Reinhart's Olive is defined primarily by her social awkwardness. The outlet argues this makes their characters feel flat.
The biggest issue, per the review, is the missing spark. It states there is "little to no yearning, no tension, and no depth to their relationship" on screen. The film is reportedly devoid of the buzzy, memorable romantic moments that define the genre's best entries.
While deemed a decently entertaining adaptation that book fans may enjoy, the review concludes the lack of lead chemistry prevents "The Love Hypothesis" from becoming a must-watch romantic comedy.
