In A World… is difficult to categorize. It may be a romantic comedy, except that the romantic storyline is secondary to the main plot. Maybe it’s a dramedy, given that although it’s funny, it also deals with some serious issues. In any event, its dialogue is well-written, giving it a bit of Juno-esque hipster charm. And although it takes a good 20 minutes to find its footing, In A World… is a strong effort from star Lake Bell, who also co-produced, wrote and directed it. In the end, this romantic dramedy is about female empowerment. In case you miss that, Bell hits you over the head with it in the final minutes. That’s not bad, necessarily; but it’s certainly the mark of a fresh-faced writer. It’s possible that the multiple sub-plots might have worried Bell into thinking her theme might be a little lost or unclear. Hence, her straight into the camera delivery of what we were supposed to take away from In A World… No matter; if something this good (with something good to say) is among the first of her efforts, I look forward to seeing what she does next.
Overall Score for “In A World” from Rich Bonaduce: B-
“In A World…” is rated R for language including some sexual references, and taking a little bit of time to get going.
93 Minutes
Directed by: Lake Bell
Written by: Lake Bell
