Max Talisman and Joey Pollari star in the new romantic comedy “Things Like This.”
“Things Like This” was directed, written, and produced by Max Talisman, with Buzz Koeing and Danny Chavarriaga serving as co-producers. The film is distributed by MPX Releasing.
Zack Anthony (Max Talisman), a struggling writer, and Zack Mandel (Joey Pollari), a talent agent assistant trapped in a failing relationship, meet by chance at a showcase. Their connection begins with a small act of kindness and grows after a disastrous but comedic first date.
As they spend more time together, they uncover a surprising shared past that feels like fate.
Despite personal challenges, misunderstandings, and life’s twists, their bond deepens as they navigate what could be the start of something special.
Joey Pollari proves to be a superb leading man as Zach Mandel, where the viewer can recall Micah Joe Parker of “The Vampire Diaries” meets Adam Huss of “General Hospital,” and that ought to be taken as a compliment.
Talisman and Pollari have great chemistry together, and their affecting rapport allows for more resonance.
Jackie Cruz is sensational and witty as Zach Anthony’s loyal friend Ava.
Charlie Tahan of “Ozark,” as well as Margaret Berkowitz and Danny Chavarriaga are all noteworthy as Zack Anthony’s friends Kenny, Chloe, and Peter. They have some really funny lines in there.
Cara Buono plays Margie, Zach Mandel’s bitchy boss, who is a character that everybody would love to hate.
While the screenplay is mediocre at best (the dialogue needed sharpening in a few areas), the acting performances from the cast and the direction more than made up for it.
Academy Award nominee Eric Roberts also appears as Paul, Zach Mandel’s distracted father, in a few scenes.
Nicholas Hamilton makes a cameo as Lance, while executive producer Jake Reiner in his scene as Warren.
The Verdict
Overall, “Things Like This” is quirky, entertaining, and a great deal of fun. It is the feel-good escapism flick that we didn’t know we needed. It tackles such subject matters are fate, destiny, embracing your imperfections, and love.
Max Talisman had made a solid movie for the Gen-Z and millennial generations to enjoy. “Things Like This” garners four out of five stars. Well done.
