A Review of ‘One Night Only’

The premise of “One Night Only” might remind you of “The Purge” but with a focus on sexual encounters. Alternatively, Shirley Jackson’s “The Lottery” comes to mind when considering its setup for fleeting romantic escapades. The film immediately unveils its concept: the U.S. government has implemented a law making premarital sex illegal, with the exception of one night per year. For the previous three years, sex outside of marriage has been restricted, except during a yearly 12-hour window. As the opening credits mention, “It’s been a lot.”

Such a scenario raises numerous queries. How would this law be enforced? Where are the limits defined? Why aren’t people relocating to Canada in protest?

However, “One Night Only,” directed by Will Gluck, known for films like “Easy A,” is less focused on exploring the peculiar consequences of its dystopian premise. The film instead offers a surprisingly mild romantic narrative. Despite its provocative setting, “One Night Only” transitions into a rom-com, with a modest approach. This shift leaves the film shy of delivering the bold comedy it promises on paper. Nonetheless, its charming leads, Monica Barbaro and Callum Turner, manage to make it an enjoyable watch.

Rom-coms often spark debate regarding their relevance, yet they provide a platform for young stars to shine. Turner, potentially a future James Bond, is no stranger to rom-coms, having appeared in last year’s “Eternity.” “One Night Only” serves as a prominent showcase for Barbaro, who has mainly appeared in male-driven ensembles like “Top Gun: Maverick.” While not the pinnacle of her career, the film displays her star quality.

The narrative does, however, stretch believability. Both leads, who are undeniably attractive, struggle on a night designed for easy connections. Owen, portrayed by Turner, runs a pizzeria in Manhattan. His proposal plans are upended when his girlfriend, played by Maya Hawke, reveals her intentions to be with someone else. Meanwhile, Allie, Barbaro’s character, is a single singer, coerced by friends into participating in the night’s social scene.

Both characters are romantics displaced on a night that favors casual flings. Their journey through New York, involving nightclub visits and a shortage of condoms, brings them together multiple times. The script by Travis Braun satirizes modern dating culture rather than governmental intrusion on private lives.

Despite product placements and superficial elements, the film lacks genuine depth. “One Night Only” tends to limit rather than expand on its themes. One observation early in the film is how the night seems designed for heterosexuals, as same-sex couples have long found ways to bypass restrictive norms. Instead of addressing contemporary sexual dynamics broadly, the film opts for a nostalgic narrative arc culminating in a significant moment atop a New York City landmark.

Ultimately, “One Night Only” doesn’t fully embrace its provocative premise or its romantic storyline. As a self-aware comedy, it explores the allure of its stars, with appearances by Sydney Sweeney, Glen Powell, and Pete Davidson adding to the charm. Barbaro and Turner’s charisma shines through despite the film’s shortfalls. Let’s look forward to more concepts inspired by “The Purge,” perhaps involving board games next time. “One Night Only,” released by Universal Pictures, is rated R for sexual content, language, and brief nudity. It runs for 102 minutes and is rated two out of four stars.