The Broken Hearts Gallery (2020)

(On Cable TV, March 2021) Dear Internet: Please tell no one, but I love myself a good romantic comedy. Predictability is not a problem if the lead actors, comedic set-pieces and sense of fun are all compelling, and the latest illustration of my avowed liking for the genre is to be found in Canadian low-budget production The Broken Hearts Gallery. Taking as a starting point a romantic hoarder’s issues in getting rid of mementoes of failed relationships, this is a film that comfortably sets itself in the Manhattan world of concept art galleries, quirky social media phenomenon, and musings on the nature of twentysomething romance. Executed in lively style by writer/director Natalie Krinsky, it’s a breezy, fun, highly likable romantic comedy that leans more heavily on the romance than the comedy, but does get its share of chuckles. The key to The Broken Hearts Gallery’s success is Geraldine Viswanathan, whose perfect take on an imperfect character is crucial at earning the attention, and then the affection of its audience. Shot in Toronto but credibly set in Manhattan, it’s a compelling watch from beginning to end. Of course, nothing is really surprising here, and some idiot plotting gets in the way — but there’s plenty of merit in delivering a comfortable experience for fans of the form.