How has no one thought to put a romcom in the future before? Maybe they have. Even if that’s the case, chances are it isn't as funny or as clever as Molli and Max in the Future, the 2023 feature film from writer and director Michael Lukk Litwak.
Running 90 minutes but spanning 12 years, four planets, three dimensions and one space cult, Molli and Max in the Future tells the story of Molli (Zosia Mamet) and Max (Aristotle Athari) as they continually collide with each other as friends in a futuristic metropolis before the obvious conclusion that they are meant to be together as each other’s true love.
This film will draw strong comparisons to When Harry Met Sally... (1989), and to some extent He’s Just Not That Into You (2009), as it continues a long history of romcoms centered around dating - especially in one’s twenties - albeit this time in a futuristic world of flying cars and flying people, but also with the social constructs that exist in present day.
Draped in Gen Z sensibility, plus tongue-and-cheek social commentary ala Don’t Look Up (2021), Molli and Max in the Future is as clever and smart as it is laugh-out-loud funny. There are tons of quick, throw away jokes that are far from throw away and closer to fertile seeds that have the potential to grow this film a cult following.
One thing that might hurt the farming of fans is the story, or rather lack thereof. Sure, the narrative is about Molli and Max finding their way to a conclusion that is obvious to the viewer, but it's told primarily through one-on-one exchanges. The wounds and mishaps of their dating life are rarely explored below the surface, aside from perhaps Molli’s brief romp with the leader of a sex cult which she spends some time as a member while achieving the status of a Level 7 space witch (See. It’s quite humorous).
Another aspect of the film that is worth noting is the heavy use of green screens. At times this provides for some captivating and thrilling imagery (battling robots), and at other times makes the film feel low budget and perhaps put together with significant monetary restrictions.
The overreliance on green screens could have been a real gut punch if it wasn’t for Mamet and Athari playing their respective leading roles with enough nuance and precision to force the viewer to focus on them instead of their surroundings. They’re assisted along the way in this effort by a handful of colorful and comedic characters, including Turbosmuck (Michael Chernus) who is elected ruler of the galaxy via the televised game show So You Think You Can Rule The Galaxy (Again, quite humorous).
As you can tell from some of the plot points and a character named Turbosmuck, this film doesn’t take itself too seriously but still manages to add to the legacy of romcoms as a zany and offbeat addition to the genre. Molli and Max in the Future will be appreciated by anyone who has strung together failed and forgettable relationships—not to mention phases in finding themselves—before discovering exactly who they are and who they want to love. This 3 out of 5 star film contains adult humor and minor language, and if found in the film collection or DVD collection of a potential partner, would signal their strong sense of humor while also making for a fun date-night watch.
How can Molli and Max in the Future be integrated into public libraries’ collection development?
Molli and Max in the Future is a unique and modern take on the romantic comedy genre that would make an excellent addition to public libraries’ collections. Its mix of futuristic world-building, clever humor, and relatable themes of self-discovery and love appeals to a wide range of viewers, particularly younger audiences drawn to Gen Z sensibilities. Libraries can integrate the film into their contemporary film sections, romcom collections, or even themed displays highlighting innovative storytelling in cinema. Its humorous social commentary and offbeat charm make it a great pick for programming like film discussion groups or community movie nights.
Why is Molli and Max in the Future a strong candidate for movie licensing?
Molli and Max in the Future stands out as a strong candidate for movie licensing due to its inventive approach to a familiar genre, combining laugh-out-loud humor with futuristic, satirical storytelling. The film’s broad appeal, driven by strong performances from Zosia Mamet and Aristotle Athari, ensures it resonates with audiences who appreciate romantic comedies with a quirky twist.