Happiness Is Review: A Heartwarming Rom-Com Perfect for a Cozy Night

If you’re in the mood for a feel-good rom-com, Happiness Is might just be what you’re looking for, dear reader. This South African film, directed by Nthabiseng Mokoena and Naledi Ya Naledi, hit Netflix on October 18, 2024, and it’s a delightful ride through friendship, love, and self-discovery at the milestone age of 40. It’s light, charming, and relatable—everything you want when you’re looking for a cozy, easy watch. Let me tell you why this movie might be the perfect pick for your next movie night.

(Note: This review may contain spoilers, so proceed with caution!)

Happiness Is Review: Lighthearted and Comforting

Let’s get right into it—Happiness Is is one of those movies that feels like a slice of everyday life. The story revolves around Princess (played by Renate Stuurman), who’s about to celebrate her 40th birthday. Her best friend, Tumi (Gail Mabalane), is determined to throw her the party of a lifetime, but things quickly go off track when Princess decides to make a run for it. As you can imagine, the situation gets a bit chaotic when Tumi gathers a group to track her down, trying to salvage the celebration.

And here’s where things get a little messy (in the most fun way possible): Princess’s ex-husband shows up with his new girlfriend, stirring up drama as the group navigates their way through the birthday mayhem. The movie beautifully captures the idea that 40 is just the beginning of new adventures—it’s not a time to settle, but to rediscover joy and start fresh.

The best part? The film keeps everything simple and relatable. It doesn’t try to be over the top; instead, it embraces the everyday moments that feel true to life, making you laugh, smile, and even reflect a bit. It’s the kind of movie that, while not overly dramatic, leaves you feeling warm inside and appreciating those small moments that make life special.

Cast: The Talented Faces Behind Happiness Is

The magic of Happiness Is isn’t just in its storytelling but also in the talented cast who bring these characters to life. Each actor adds a touch of authenticity, making the story feel real and the characters relatable. Let me give you the rundown:

Renate Stuurman as Princess is fantastic—she perfectly captures the spirit of a woman finding her way through the challenges and surprises that come with turning 40. Gail Mabalane, as the loyal and slightly intense best friend Tumi, is just the kind of character we all need in our lives. And the supporting cast, including Richard Lukunku and Sivuyile Ngesi, add layers of humor and camaraderie that make the movie feel like a celebration of friendship and life’s unpredictability.

Synopsis: What’s Happiness Is All About?

Okay, so let’s get into the nitty-gritty of the plot. Princess is at a crossroads as she faces her 40th birthday, and her bestie Tumi is determined to make this milestone unforgettable. But as Tumi’s grand plans unfold, Princess decides to disappear, and chaos ensues as Tumi pulls together a group of friends to find her.

The movie cleverly navigates this unfolding adventure, blending humor and heart as the characters try to make sense of everything going on. The presence of Princess’s ex-husband, who’s tagging along with his new girlfriend, adds an interesting dynamic that many of us can relate to—those awkward moments when you have to face your past while trying to move forward.

The film explores what it means to embrace a new chapter in life, showing that 40 is not an end but a beginning. The characters are diverse and realistic, showing that even when things don’t go as planned, having the right people by your side makes all the difference. The journey is about finding happiness, not in perfection, but in the chaos and messiness of real life.

Trailer: A Sneak Peek Into Happiness Is

Before you dive into the full experience, you might want to check out the trailer for Happiness Is. It’s a delightful glimpse into the fun and emotional rollercoaster that Princess’s birthday becomes. The trailer perfectly sets the tone for the movie, hinting at the humor, the mishaps, and the heartfelt moments that make this film a cozy, easy watch.

The trailer gives you just enough to know you’re in for a lighthearted and fun ride—one that will have you smiling and laughing as you follow Princess and her friends on this adventure. If you’re already intrigued, trust me, the full film delivers on everything it promises.

Where to Watch Happiness Is

Now, dear reader, if you’re ready to watch this charming story unfold, you can stream Happiness Is right now on Netflix. It premiered on October 18, 2024, and it’s available for you to enjoy whenever you need a cozy movie night. Whether you’re planning a girls’ night in or simply want to relax with a feel-good film, Happiness Is is the perfect choice. Just grab your favorite blanket, some popcorn, and let yourself enjoy this warm and delightful story.

Conclusion: A Simple, Heartfelt Rom-Com

To wrap things up, Happiness Is isn’t about epic drama or over-the-top twists. It’s a simple, heartfelt story about friendship, the ups and downs of life, and the joy of embracing new beginnings. If you’re a fan of rom-coms or just need something light and comforting to brighten your day, this film is a must-watch. It doesn’t ask much of you—just to sit back, relax, and enjoy the ride.

The characters feel like people you know, the story is warm and welcoming, and the message is clear: it’s never too late to find happiness. Whether you’re turning 40 or any other age, Happiness Is reminds us that life’s adventures are always just around the corner, and sometimes, all we need is the right company to make everything fall into place.

So, dear reader, if you’ve already watched Happiness Is, leave your opinion in the comments—I’d love to know your thoughts on this delightful rom-com!