I don't know what studio marketing "genius" came up with the generic title of this 2022 cross-cultural romcom, but I really thought it was going to evoke Tina Turner's song somehow. But no, it was meant to present the veracity of arranged marriages within the context of a burgeoning love story that's obvious to everyone except the two leads. Lily James plays Zoe, a documentary filmmaker who convinces her neighbor Kaz (Shazad Latif) to film his wedding process once he decides to go through with a traditional Pakistani arranged courtship. Of course, neither admits any feelings either may have for each other. As contrived as the concept sounds, director Shekhar Kapur manages to provide some intriguing insights into cultural customs that don't come across as condescending. As Zoe's pixilated mother, Emma Thompson seems wrongfully wasted even though she appears game for the inevitable shenanigans. However, if you're looking for something frothy with an exotic South Asian flavor, this might work for you. Actually Zoe came up with the best title for this movie: "Love Contractually".
