DVD Round-Up: "Lola Versus" - Starring Greta Gerwig and "The Lucky One" - Starring Zac Efron

Lola Versus (2012)

The Basics: Independent film focusing on the relationship problems of lovable, yet sometimes annoying, Lola (Greta Gerwig). Early on, Lola is dumped by her fiance, Luke (Joel Kinnaman), and then she pursues a series of hapless flings with men who are clearly not right for her. With support from her friends, Lola tries to move forward with her life, but Luke always seems to be around, making it difficult to close that chapter completely.

Reason to Watch: Greta Gerwig delivers another fine, if understated, performance as Lola. In addition, there are a few laugh out loud moments, courtesy of the passive aggressive nature of the characters.

The Bottom Line: While the performances are generally adequate, what Lola and some of her friends really need to do is take some time to be alone and figure out what they really want/need, instead of hopping in and out of relationships that always seem to end badly. The pursuit of love looks a lot like desperation here. As a result, it is difficult to empathize with characters who may be causing all of their own problems because of a constant need to be with someone. In this case, a little common sense and self worth might go a long way.

The Lucky One (2012)

The Basics: Based on the novel by Nicholas Sparks, The Lucky One centers around a soldier, Logan Thibault, who returns home after a third tour of duty in Iraq. Logan recently escaped being serious injured or, perhaps, killed by a bomb when he went to pick up a photo of a young woman lying on the ground. As a result, he believes that the woman is his guardian angel and he attempts to track her down upon his return home.

Reasons to Watch: Zac Efron is continuing to hone his craft and delivers a believable and appropriately understated performance. In addition, Blythe Danner, as Ellie, is a always a joy to watch and the New Orleans scenery is lush and beautiful.

The Bottom Line: The success of this film hinges on the relationship between Logan and Beth (Taylor Shilling) and there is not enough chemistry between them to make me believe that they are destined to be together. In addition, there are numerous scenes that feel forced and amateurish, as the two lead characters try to build something special, but never quite succeed. Finally, the overabundance of melodrama makes The Lucky One feel more like a Lifetime movie than a major motion picture.