In today’s political climate, is there any way for two people to overcome their ideological differences and find love? Writer/director Erik Bork (Emmy-winning writer/producer of HBO’s Band of Brothers) gives romantic comedies a thorny topical twist in his feature film The Elephant in the Room.
It’s December 2020, the height of the pandemic, and Leah (Alyssa Limperis) is feeling lonely. Struggling with a recent breakup, an unfulfilling remote job, and an introverted roommate, she’s desperate for connection when she meets charming chef Vincent (Sean Kleier). Sparks fly and Leah thinks she’s found the perfect man until Vincent drops a bombshell: he voted for Donald Trump – twice. Leah’s progressive politics leave her at a crossroads as she considers their future. Can she convince open-minded Vincent to change his views? If she can’t, is she willing to look past their differences?
Bork’s script is well-paced, the structure comfortingly familiar to any rom-com fan. There is a lighthearted charm to his take on classic tropes of the genre, from their playful first meeting to the sweet and silly chats with Leah’s sidekick/roommate Martin (Dominic Burgess). However, blending the whimsical spirit of a Hallmark-style romantic comedy with discussions of modern U.S. politics can pose a challenge. The film’s light tone, emphasized by Alexander Taylor’s upbeat and quirky score, can feel at odds with some of the divisive topics that come up during Leah and Vincent’s talks. Bork’s script makes a concerted effort to offer a balanced view, giving time and space for both sides, but in doing so, their conflict lacks some of the emotional turmoil that accompany this type of political divide.
Bork’s creative team has done strong work in building a romantic aesthetic for Leah and Vincent’s story. Cole Pisano’s assured cinematography is filled with light, our couple illuminated by glowing lamps and dappled sunlight as they begin to explore their romantic connection. That warmth is further echoed in the bright colors of the film’s art direction (Christy Botkin Reeves) and Claire Young’s vibrant costume design.
The film’s emotional core is bolstered by the sweet chemistry between the film’s three leads. Limperis gamely fills the role of energetic young heroine from the film’s opening moments, displaying an awkward charisma as she stumbles through a series of voicemails to her ex-boyfriend. Kleier is a natural romantic partner, magnetic even when pushing characters into political debate. Leah and Vincent have a connection right away, the two actors finding an easy rhythm as they bicker and banter. Burgess is solid in his role as confidante and comic relief, finding humor and heart in Martin’s growing friendship with Leah.
The Elephant in the Room is an ambitious romantic comedy about finding a way to reach across the aisle. Bork’s feature is abundant with charm and written with care as it tries to balance the nuances of politics and falling in love.
