Sunday, 9:00pm, BBC3
“Man Up” (2015) is a cheeky and refreshingly unconventional British romantic comedy that sidesteps the usual rom-com pitfalls by embracing spontaneity and unpredictability. Directed by Ben Palmer, the film stars Lake Bell as Nancy, a cynical thirty-something who’s given up on the idea of finding “the one” and is more focused on surviving awkward family gatherings. Her dry sense of humour and sharp tongue make her a breath of fresh air in a genre often flooded with overly saccharine protagonists. Enter Simon Pegg’s Jack, an equally jaded recent divorcé who mistakes Nancy for his blind date. What ensues is a whirlwind of miscommunications, mini-dramas, and surprisingly profound insights on love and starting over.
The soundtrack, curated by composer Dickon Hinchliffe, serves as more than just a background score—it’s a pulse that propels the film’s vibrant energy. Hinchliffe, who’s dabbled in everything from noirish drama scores to indie projects, blends moody instrumental tracks with a handpicked selection of indie rock and alternative pop tunes. The film’s musical landscape is filled with gems like “Here I Go Again” by Whitesnake, which perfectly punctuates a hilariously out-of-control dance-off scene, and “Roam” by The B-52’s, which provides the perfect vibe for the pair’s initial, chaotic meet-cute. Notably, Elbow’s atmospheric “Real Life (Angel)” grounds the film’s more reflective moments, adding emotional depth to scenes that might otherwise have tipped into pure silliness.
For those who appreciate a soundtrack that’s as varied as the film itself, “Man Up” is a collector’s delight—if you can find it. “Man Up” may not have redefined the rom-com, but with its sharp dialogue, engaging leads, and eclectic musical choices, it’s certainly given it a much-needed boost of adrenaline and a dash of authenticity.
- Paul Allen