Love in Slow Motion review: Pyaar dosti hai, with a delayed confession
What happens when the lines between friendship and romance begin to blur? Netflix's latest film, Love in Slow Motion, beautifully explores a heartfelt romance that finds beauty in the things left unsaid.
There’s something undeniably addictive about romantic films, the more you watch, the more you crave them. Netflix’s latest offering, Love in Slow Motion, fits perfectly into that space. Directed by Elie El Semaan and starring Nour Al Ghandour and Ali Kakooli, the Arabic romantic comedy explores friendship, unspoken feelings, and the quiet courage it takes to finally confess what you’ve kept hidden for years.
At the heart of the story is Haya (Nour Al Ghandour), whose lifelong friendship with Jawad (Ali Kakooli) has become more than just companionship. Over the years, what once felt like the comfort of home slowly transformed into love, though it took her far too long to admit it, even to herself. Just when she gathers the courage to reveal her feelings, Jawad announces his engagement to Zeina (Noha Nabil), a successful actor, turning Haya's slow-burning realisation into a race against time.
Much like its title, the film unfolds at an unhurried pace, lingering on quiet moments and emotions rather than dramatic twists.
Instead of pushing the story into melodrama, Love in Slow Motion gives Haya complete ownership of her emotional journey. She begins documenting her attempts to win Jawad back through a series of private video diaries, using the camera as a confidant when she cannot bring herself to speak openly to him.
These vlogs become both a clever comic device and an emotional anchor for the film, capturing her awkward plans, failed encounters and the well-meaning interference of her sister Dalal (Shoug Hadi). More importantly, they allow Haya to tell her own story in her own words, making her journey feel personal, heartfelt and deeply relatable.
Ghandour, with her charm and beauty, delivers a beautiful performance as Haya, effortlessly balancing the character’s cheerful exterior with the quiet emotional turmoil she carries within. While her comic timing shines in the film’s lighter moments, it is in the intimate vlog sequences that she truly stands out, revealing Haya’s vulnerability, longing and growing desperation as she struggles to express her feelings before it is too late.
Known for bringing warmth and emotional sincerity to her performances, Nour Al Ghandour’s character is likely to resonate with many viewers.
Ali Kakooli, meanwhile, brings warmth and ease to Jawad. His character remains blissfully unaware of Haya’s emotions, not out of indifference but because he has always viewed their bond through the comfort of a longstanding friendship, a dynamic that quietly drives both the film’s humour and its heartbreak.
However, while both the lead characters keep the narrative engaging throughout, it is worth noting that some of the film's emotional moments don't land as effectively as they should. The chemistry that works well in the lighter, comedic scenes doesn't always carry the same weight when the story demands emotional depth.
Pause that scroll! We're about to talk about where the film misses the mark—and yes, spoilers ahead. Read at your own risk.
For example, Haya's vlog sequence, where she confronts her feelings and decides to sacrifice her love for someone else's happiness, should have been the film's emotional high point. Instead, it feels strangely restrained, leaving you admiring the idea more than actually feeling the heartbreak. Moments that are meant to tug at your heartstrings end up merely passing by; you actually miss that emotional essence.
Similarly, in another key scene, Haya confronts Jawad about his feelings for Zeina despite knowing how much he means to her. While the moment is meant to be emotionally charged, it lacks the depth needed to truly resonate. Haya's emotions never fully come through, leaving the confrontation completely flat.
Director Elie El Semaan clearly pays close attention to the film's aesthetics, crafting a visually polished world through stylish costumes, appealing character design and well-written dialogues. Yet, despite the visual flair, it is the effortless chemistry between the two leads that truly steals the show.
Their shared screen time, playful banter and easy camaraderie make every interaction feel natural, convincing you that their friendship could effortlessly blossom into something more.
However, we wished these scenes had been elevated with a stronger background score, especially during the film's emotional moments. Sequences such as the one where Haya learns a heartbreaking secret about Jawad should have hit much harder. Instead, the lack of impactful music makes the emotions feel muted, leaving scenes that are meant to be heartbreaking surprisingly less affecting.
Rooted in the timeless Bollywood idea that "Pyaar Dosti Hai," (Love is friendship), the film gently explores the delicate line between friendship and romance, showing how one can quietly evolve into the other.
The supporting cast also gets its moment to shine. The film marks the acting debut of social media sensation Noha as Zeina, whose transition from the digital world to the big screen adds another layer of curiosity. Throughout the film, she makes a sincere effort to leave an impression and holds her own alongside the more experienced actors.
Another hero of the film is writer Eyad Saleh. He keeps the story simple and grounded, focusing on personal emotions rather than larger-than-life drama. Instead of relying on grand romantic gestures, the film finds its strength in Haya's quiet journey and her video journals.
With all its flaws and simplicity, Love in Slow Motion is a charming romance that embraces simplicity over spectacle. It may stumble when it comes to delivering a few of its emotional highs, but it makes up for it with its heartfelt performances and the effortless chemistry between its leads.
For anyone who believes the best love stories often begin with friendship, this Arabic romantic comedy offers a warm, comforting watch, one that reminds you that sometimes, the hardest words to say are also the ones that matter the most.
Love in Slow Motion is currently streaming on Netflix.
There’s something undeniably addictive about romantic films, the more you watch, the more you crave them. Netflix’s latest offering, Love in Slow Motion, fits perfectly into that space. Directed by Elie El Semaan and starring Nour Al Ghandour and Ali Kakooli, the Arabic romantic comedy explores friendship, unspoken feelings, and the quiet courage it takes to finally confess what you’ve kept hidden for years.
At the heart of the story is Haya (Nour Al Ghandour), whose lifelong friendship with Jawad (Ali Kakooli) has become more than just companionship. Over the years, what once felt like the comfort of home slowly transformed into love, though it took her far too long to admit it, even to herself. Just when she gathers the courage to reveal her feelings, Jawad announces his engagement to Zeina (Noha Nabil), a successful actor, turning Haya's slow-burning realisation into a race against time.
Much like its title, the film unfolds at an unhurried pace, lingering on quiet moments and emotions rather than dramatic twists.
Instead of pushing the story into melodrama, Love in Slow Motion gives Haya complete ownership of her emotional journey. She begins documenting her attempts to win Jawad back through a series of private video diaries, using the camera as a confidant when she cannot bring herself to speak openly to him.
These vlogs become both a clever comic device and an emotional anchor for the film, capturing her awkward plans, failed encounters and the well-meaning interference of her sister Dalal (Shoug Hadi). More importantly, they allow Haya to tell her own story in her own words, making her journey feel personal, heartfelt and deeply relatable.
Ghandour, with her charm and beauty, delivers a beautiful performance as Haya, effortlessly balancing the character’s cheerful exterior with the quiet emotional turmoil she carries within. While her comic timing shines in the film’s lighter moments, it is in the intimate vlog sequences that she truly stands out, revealing Haya’s vulnerability, longing and growing desperation as she struggles to express her feelings before it is too late.
Known for bringing warmth and emotional sincerity to her performances, Nour Al Ghandour’s character is likely to resonate with many viewers.
Ali Kakooli, meanwhile, brings warmth and ease to Jawad. His character remains blissfully unaware of Haya’s emotions, not out of indifference but because he has always viewed their bond through the comfort of a longstanding friendship, a dynamic that quietly drives both the film’s humour and its heartbreak.
However, while both the lead characters keep the narrative engaging throughout, it is worth noting that some of the film's emotional moments don't land as effectively as they should. The chemistry that works well in the lighter, comedic scenes doesn't always carry the same weight when the story demands emotional depth.
Pause that scroll! We're about to talk about where the film misses the mark—and yes, spoilers ahead. Read at your own risk.
For example, Haya's vlog sequence, where she confronts her feelings and decides to sacrifice her love for someone else's happiness, should have been the film's emotional high point. Instead, it feels strangely restrained, leaving you admiring the idea more than actually feeling the heartbreak. Moments that are meant to tug at your heartstrings end up merely passing by; you actually miss that emotional essence.
Similarly, in another key scene, Haya confronts Jawad about his feelings for Zeina despite knowing how much he means to her. While the moment is meant to be emotionally charged, it lacks the depth needed to truly resonate. Haya's emotions never fully come through, leaving the confrontation completely flat.
Director Elie El Semaan clearly pays close attention to the film's aesthetics, crafting a visually polished world through stylish costumes, appealing character design and well-written dialogues. Yet, despite the visual flair, it is the effortless chemistry between the two leads that truly steals the show.
Their shared screen time, playful banter and easy camaraderie make every interaction feel natural, convincing you that their friendship could effortlessly blossom into something more.
However, we wished these scenes had been elevated with a stronger background score, especially during the film's emotional moments. Sequences such as the one where Haya learns a heartbreaking secret about Jawad should have hit much harder. Instead, the lack of impactful music makes the emotions feel muted, leaving scenes that are meant to be heartbreaking surprisingly less affecting.
Rooted in the timeless Bollywood idea that "Pyaar Dosti Hai," (Love is friendship), the film gently explores the delicate line between friendship and romance, showing how one can quietly evolve into the other.
The supporting cast also gets its moment to shine. The film marks the acting debut of social media sensation Noha as Zeina, whose transition from the digital world to the big screen adds another layer of curiosity. Throughout the film, she makes a sincere effort to leave an impression and holds her own alongside the more experienced actors.
Another hero of the film is writer Eyad Saleh. He keeps the story simple and grounded, focusing on personal emotions rather than larger-than-life drama. Instead of relying on grand romantic gestures, the film finds its strength in Haya's quiet journey and her video journals.
With all its flaws and simplicity, Love in Slow Motion is a charming romance that embraces simplicity over spectacle. It may stumble when it comes to delivering a few of its emotional highs, but it makes up for it with its heartfelt performances and the effortless chemistry between its leads.
For anyone who believes the best love stories often begin with friendship, this Arabic romantic comedy offers a warm, comforting watch, one that reminds you that sometimes, the hardest words to say are also the ones that matter the most.
Love in Slow Motion is currently streaming on Netflix.
There’s something undeniably addictive about romantic films, the more you watch, the more you crave them. Netflix’s latest offering, Love in Slow Motion, fits perfectly into that space. Directed by Elie El Semaan and starring Nour Al Ghandour and Ali Kakooli, the Arabic romantic comedy explores friendship, unspoken feelings, and the quiet courage it takes to finally confess what you’ve kept hidden for years.
At the heart of the story is Haya (Nour Al Ghandour), whose lifelong friendship with Jawad (Ali Kakooli) has become more than just companionship. Over the years, what once felt like the comfort of home slowly transformed into love, though it took her far too long to admit it, even to herself. Just when she gathers the courage to reveal her feelings, Jawad announces his engagement to Zeina (Noha Nabil), a successful actor, turning Haya's slow-burning realisation into a race against time.
Much like its title, the film unfolds at an unhurried pace, lingering on quiet moments and emotions rather than dramatic twists.
Instead of pushing the story into melodrama, Love in Slow Motion gives Haya complete ownership of her emotional journey. She begins documenting her attempts to win Jawad back through a series of private video diaries, using the camera as a confidant when she cannot bring herself to speak openly to him.
These vlogs become both a clever comic device and an emotional anchor for the film, capturing her awkward plans, failed encounters and the well-meaning interference of her sister Dalal (Shoug Hadi). More importantly, they allow Haya to tell her own story in her own words, making her journey feel personal, heartfelt and deeply relatable.
Ghandour, with her charm and beauty, delivers a beautiful performance as Haya, effortlessly balancing the character’s cheerful exterior with the quiet emotional turmoil she carries within. While her comic timing shines in the film’s lighter moments, it is in the intimate vlog sequences that she truly stands out, revealing Haya’s vulnerability, longing and growing desperation as she struggles to express her feelings before it is too late.
Known for bringing warmth and emotional sincerity to her performances, Nour Al Ghandour’s character is likely to resonate with many viewers.
Ali Kakooli, meanwhile, brings warmth and ease to Jawad. His character remains blissfully unaware of Haya’s emotions, not out of indifference but because he has always viewed their bond through the comfort of a longstanding friendship, a dynamic that quietly drives both the film’s humour and its heartbreak.
However, while both the lead characters keep the narrative engaging throughout, it is worth noting that some of the film's emotional moments don't land as effectively as they should. The chemistry that works well in the lighter, comedic scenes doesn't always carry the same weight when the story demands emotional depth.
Pause that scroll! We're about to talk about where the film misses the mark—and yes, spoilers ahead. Read at your own risk.
For example, Haya's vlog sequence, where she confronts her feelings and decides to sacrifice her love for someone else's happiness, should have been the film's emotional high point. Instead, it feels strangely restrained, leaving you admiring the idea more than actually feeling the heartbreak. Moments that are meant to tug at your heartstrings end up merely passing by; you actually miss that emotional essence.
Similarly, in another key scene, Haya confronts Jawad about his feelings for Zeina despite knowing how much he means to her. While the moment is meant to be emotionally charged, it lacks the depth needed to truly resonate. Haya's emotions never fully come through, leaving the confrontation completely flat.
Director Elie El Semaan clearly pays close attention to the film's aesthetics, crafting a visually polished world through stylish costumes, appealing character design and well-written dialogues. Yet, despite the visual flair, it is the effortless chemistry between the two leads that truly steals the show.
Their shared screen time, playful banter and easy camaraderie make every interaction feel natural, convincing you that their friendship could effortlessly blossom into something more.
However, we wished these scenes had been elevated with a stronger background score, especially during the film's emotional moments. Sequences such as the one where Haya learns a heartbreaking secret about Jawad should have hit much harder. Instead, the lack of impactful music makes the emotions feel muted, leaving scenes that are meant to be heartbreaking surprisingly less affecting.
Rooted in the timeless Bollywood idea that "Pyaar Dosti Hai," (Love is friendship), the film gently explores the delicate line between friendship and romance, showing how one can quietly evolve into the other.
The supporting cast also gets its moment to shine. The film marks the acting debut of social media sensation Noha as Zeina, whose transition from the digital world to the big screen adds another layer of curiosity. Throughout the film, she makes a sincere effort to leave an impression and holds her own alongside the more experienced actors.
Another hero of the film is writer Eyad Saleh. He keeps the story simple and grounded, focusing on personal emotions rather than larger-than-life drama. Instead of relying on grand romantic gestures, the film finds its strength in Haya's quiet journey and her video journals.
With all its flaws and simplicity, Love in Slow Motion is a charming romance that embraces simplicity over spectacle. It may stumble when it comes to delivering a few of its emotional highs, but it makes up for it with its heartfelt performances and the effortless chemistry between its leads.
For anyone who believes the best love stories often begin with friendship, this Arabic romantic comedy offers a warm, comforting watch, one that reminds you that sometimes, the hardest words to say are also the ones that matter the most.
Love in Slow Motion is currently streaming on Netflix.
