Netflix's 'Voicemails for Isabelle' Tops Charts, Leaves Viewers in Tears
Netflix's latest romantic drama, 'Voicemails for Isabelle,' has quickly climbed to the top film spot in the U.S.
since its release on June 19.
The movie, which has garnered largely positive reviews, is also noted for leaving many viewers in tears, a reaction not typically associated with the romantic comedy genre.
The film centers on Jill, portrayed by Zoey Deutch, a chef coping with the death of her sister, Isabelle.
As a way to process her grief, Jill leaves voicemails on Isabelle's old phone number, unaware that the number has been reassigned to a stranger named Wes, played by Nick Robinson.
Wes, an Austin real estate agent, begins listening to these messages, developing an unexpected connection with Jill as he learns about her loneliness, humor, and heartbreak.
'Voicemails for Isabelle' is an original story by writer-director Leah McKendrick, who drew inspiration from her own relationship with her younger sister and the confessional voicemails she used to leave.
The film aims for a more mature narrative than many recent younger-skewing romances, with both lead actors being 31, allowing it to explore themes beyond first love.
Beyond Deutch and Robinson, the cast includes Harry Shum Jr., Toby Sandeman, and Nick Offerman.
The film's emotional impact is significantly amplified by its use of Robyn's 2010 hit "Dancing on My Own," a song deeply tied to the sisters' relationship and featured prominently in the film's poignant final scene.
Critical reception for 'Voicemails for Isabelle' has been strong, with praise directed at Deutch and Robinson's performances, their chemistry, and the film's successful blend of grief and romance.
Rotten Tomatoes reports an 84% critic score from 38 reviews and a 91% audience score from over 250 ratings.
Publications like The New York Times have called it a "poignant rom-com," while AV Club hailed it as "the best Netflix dramedy in years," suggesting it revitalizes both the tearjerker and rom-com genres.
While some critics, such as The Guardian, noted that the plot could feel a bit unsettling, Netflix stated that McKendrick acknowledged this potential perception but emphasized Robinson's sensitive portrayal of Wes.
Key points
- 'Voicemails for Isabelle' has secured the top film spot on Netflix in the U.S. since its release on June 19.
- The film stars Zoey Deutch as Jill, a grieving chef who leaves voicemails for her deceased sister, and Nick Robinson as Wes, the stranger who receives them.
- Reviews for 'Voicemails for Isabelle' are largely positive, with an 84% critic score on Rotten Tomatoes and a 91% audience score.