Kelly Rowland and Method Man headline the new Amazon Prime Video film Relationship Goals, a breezy romantic comedy that blends millennial charm with a surprising faith-based undercurrent. Directed by Linda Mendoza, this Valentine's Day offering delivers a fast-paced, 90-minute experience that capitalises on the star power of its leads, though its core message may leave some viewers questioning its intent.
A Classic Romcom Setup with a Nostalgic Pull
On the surface, Relationship Goals follows a familiar romantic comedy formula, expertly tailored for a generation raised on the music of Destiny's Child and Wu-Tang Clan. Kelly Rowland shines as Leah, a driven morning TV producer poised to take over from her retiring boss, played by Matt Walsh. Her career ambitions are suddenly complicated by the arrival of Jarrett, a charismatic former flame portrayed by Method Man, setting up a classic "will they, won't they" dynamic that is sure to attract fans of both artists.
Efficient Storytelling and Snappy Dialogue
The film's screenplay, led by Michael Elliott, moves at an extraordinarily brisk pace, ensuring the runtime flies by. Leah's supportive circle of friends, including Annie Gonzalez as Treese and Robin Thede as Brenda, provide snappy one-liners and helpful exposition, keeping the tone light and engaging. Only Dennis Haysbert, as Leah's grieving father, introduces a more sombre note, though it never slows the momentum significantly.
While the plot takes liberties with the realities of TV news production, the energetic soundtrack, featuring artists from Victoria Monét to the Doobie Brothers, helps gloss over these inconsistencies. A climactic duet from Rowland and Method Man, titled Complicated, underscores the film's romantic tensions, even as the narrative resorts to clichéd devices like an airport denouement.
The Faith-Based Twist and Its Implications
Beneath its romcom exterior, Relationship Goals reveals itself as a faith-based film aimed at women spending Valentine's Day alone. The true star of the movie is Michael Todd, a prominent figure in the prosperity gospel movement, whose bestselling book provides the film's title and thematic foundation. Characters within the story venerate Todd as an expert, and the plot includes a pilgrimage to his megachurch in Tulsa, Oklahoma, blurring the lines between entertainment and evangelism.
Historical Context and Critical Perspectives
This approach is not without precedent. Similar to Steve Harvey's Think Like a Man franchise or TD Jakes' film adaptations, Relationship Goals uses romantic narrative as a vehicle for promoting specific relationship ideologies. Critics may argue that the film, produced by DeVon Franklin, another Hollywood-linked preacher, functions as an extended infomercial for Todd's ministry, presenting marriage as the sole path to fulfilment for women.
Recent cultural commentary, such as comedian Druski's viral sketch parodying extravagant megachurch practices, highlights the ongoing debate around the blending of spirituality and entertainment. Todd's own controversial actions, including an incident where he wiped phlegm on a worshipper, add layers to the discussion about the film's parochial take on relationships.
Verdict: Fun but Flawed
Ultimately, Relationship Goals offers a heavenly enough ride for those who can overlook its problematic messaging. The chemistry between Rowland and Method Man, combined with the film's nostalgic appeal and comedic moments, makes it a fun watch. However, viewers should be aware of its faith-based agenda, which may not align with all perspectives on love and marriage. Available now on Amazon Prime Video, this film is a mixed bag of entertainment and evangelism.
