The Sweet Life (2011/Synapse Films DVD)

 

Picture: D     Sound: C     Extras: A     Feature: C+

 

 

Two brothers who could not be more different, Michael the shy, sweet and sensitive columnist and Frankie the older successful playboy brother who think he is god's gift to woman.  Frankie as always gotten all the girls and had the 'sweet life', but things are going to change when Frankie's latest girl Lila hooks up Michael with her biker roommate.  It is Michael's turn to step up, BUT through unseen circumstances Michael end up hooking up with Lila instead... now stuck between two brothers who will Lila end up with on top?  Yes, it’s The Sweet Life.
 
This is a romantic comedy of two brothers who are complete opposites.  Michael is the brother who believes in devotion, being kind, helping others and being the 'good guy', while his brother Frankie the use and abuse type, slick and just as fast with the ladies, but what started out as his brother's girlfriend soon becomes a complicated love triangle, Michael helps Lila chase after her dreams while Frankie just wants to get in her pants.  Lila finds herself falling for Michael and now it seems Frankie is the one who needs lessons in love... it is Michael's turn for tasting the 'sweet life.'
 
I really wanted to like this piece about romance, being true one's self and how the unexpected can happen in life, but it did not add up like I would have liked it too.  What started out as a date from biker hell lead to the most two unlikely people finding one another, a tough & rough sexy bartender and a quiet shy columnist. But can leopards really change their spots?  This film had an unexpected (but still comical) ending.  I also wish it looked good, but the look was an issue, while the sound is typical of flawed low budget projects.  Extras include commentary with director and actors, making of the film, deleted & extended scenes, outtakes and trailer.

 

 

-   Ricky Chiang