From the mishaps of Knocked Up to the elaborate schemes of How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days, romantic comedy tropes offer a comforting predictability while still leaving room for fresh spins and clever takes on well-worn plots. Enter Plan B – which premiered last night during the Anthology Institute Festival at LA’s Japan House – a film that puts its own twist on the classic romcom formula, navigating familiar territory while finding new humor and heart in the complexities of life and relationships.
In Plan B, directed by Brandon Tamburri, the story follows the rebellious Piper Brennan, portrayed by Jamie Lee, who finds herself pregnant after a drunken night with her awkward neighbor, Evan Ebert. But rather than sticking to a traditional romcom trajectory, Piper hatches a scheme to find a more “suitable” father figure for her unborn child before revealing her pregnancy—a premise that takes a fresh look at love, responsibility, and the lengths one might go to in order to rewrite their story. Watch the trailer below:
Jamie Lee’s portrayal of Piper is exceptional; she delivers a character that’s both relatable and complex. Lee brings vulnerability and wit to her performance, allowing the audience to empathize with Piper’s often misguided, yet heartfelt, decisions. She easily stands out as the anchor of the film, and her comedic timing alongside emotional depth makes her an actress to watch.
Jon Heder shines as Evan, delivering a funny and endearing performance that subtly nods to his iconic Napoleon Dynamite days while revealing a more mature, nuanced side. His chemistry with Lee is organic and enjoyable, adding to the film’s overall charm.
Anthony Moore’s appearance during a Lamaze class scene is a delightful surprise, giving a brief but memorable performance that adds to the film’s humor. His role is a nice nod for those familiar with his work on Tires.
The supporting cast brings its own flair, with notable performances from Shannon Elizabeth and Kate Flannery. Elizabeth’s cameo, though brief, is fun, and Flannery’s comedic moments—while sometimes feeling a bit over-the-top—add to the film’s lively energy. A special mention goes to Anthony Moore, whose appearance in a Lamaze class scene adds a playful touch, making fans of his work on Tires eager for more.
Director Brandon Tamburri, known for his work on Heredity, shows his expanding range by balancing comedic beats with genuinely touching moments. The pacing remains lively throughout, maintaining the audience’s interest, although the film does stumble a bit in the second act before rallying for a strong emotional conclusion. The final moments bring a heartfelt resolution to Piper’s journey, making the film’s message about personal growth and self-acceptance truly resonate.
While Plan B doesn’t reinvent the romcom genre, it delivers an entertaining story with a unique perspective. It’s lighthearted, sweet, and grounded in real emotions, making it an easy watch for fans of romantic comedies. Although it may appeal more to audiences who enjoy the sentimental beats of the genre, its relatable storyline and strong performances make it worth the watch. Overall, it’s a delightful and well-crafted film that sets a promising path for Tamburri’s future work.
BOTTOM LINE: Plan B thrives on its relatability and heart, offering a fresh take on a familiar premise. The film is an easy, enjoyable watch for romcom fans and brings a touch of whimsy and warmth to a story about life’s unexpected turns. It’s a promising step for Brandon Tamburri, leaving us curious to see where he takes his storytelling next. It’s a REEL SEE.
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The Geek is a working screenwriter, director and screenwriting instructor.
