Review of the Cypriot Netflix Film “Find Me Falling”
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Loading... - Bianca Palumbo
- 17 Mar 2025
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“Find Me Falling” is the latest addition to Netflix's original film lineup, directed and written by Stelana Kliris. This film, which takes place on the picturesque island of Cyprus, is a follow-up to Kliris’s first narrative feature, “Committed,” released in 2014. While the film showcases the island's stunning landscapes and cultural richness, it ultimately struggles to leave a lasting impression, often getting lost in the shuffle of other offerings on the streaming platform.
The story centers around John Allman, played by Harry Connick Jr., a rock star who retreats to a secluded cliffside home in Cyprus following the disappointing reception of his latest album. John embodies the archetype of the disgruntled musician: he grapples with personal demons, indulges in drinking and smoking, and seeks to rediscover his musical inspiration. His solitude is soon interrupted by a cast of colorful characters, including a friendly local police chief, a talented young singer, and an old flame, Agni Scott.
The film introduces an intriguing element by establishing John’s new home as a “suicide hotspot,” hinting at a darker history that could add depth to the narrative. However, this aspect is quickly overshadowed by the more predictable storyline of rekindled romance and personal redemption, which detracts from the potential tension and mystery.
While Connick Jr. is a familiar face from 1990s films like “Hope Floats” and “Independence Day,” his performance in “Find Me Falling” feels underwhelming. The character of John is poorly written, lacking the complexity needed to engage viewers. Although he does showcase his musical talent, the rest of his character arc is standard and uninspired. Similarly, Scott’s portrayal of John’s former lover is visually appealing but lacks depth, reducing her to a mere plot device rather than a fully realized character.
The supporting cast, including the young local singer played by Ali Fumiko Whitney, adds some charm, but they too are constrained by clichéd roles that fail to leave a significant impact. The film’s dialogue is riddled with mediocrity, lacking the heartwarming or humorous moments it aspires to achieve. Some attempts at humor fall flat, with cringe-worthy lines that detract from the overall experience.
“Find Me Falling” suffers from a lack of originality, relying heavily on well-worn tropes of the romantic drama genre. The narrative is predictable, with few surprises to keep viewers engaged. The film leans into romantic clichés, such as John writing a song about his old love and their rapid reconnection, which feels forced and lacks genuine chemistry. A poorly executed twist midway through the film further disrupts the narrative flow, leaving viewers feeling confused rather than intrigued.
Additionally, the film’s inconsistent use of language—switching from Greek to English without explanation—adds to the overall sense of disjointedness. These narrative choices contribute to a lack of coherence that undermines the film’s potential.
Despite its shortcomings, “Find Me Falling” does have one redeeming quality: the breathtaking landscapes of Cyprus. The film marks the first time a Netflix movie has been produced in Cyprus, providing a glimpse into the island’s culture, food, and local life. The cinematography captures the beauty of the surroundings, making it a visually appealing experience. As one character aptly states, “Who needs therapy when you have nature?” This sentiment resonates throughout the film, even if the execution of the story does not.
In summary, “Find Me Falling” is a film that, while set against the stunning backdrop of Cyprus, ultimately fails to deliver a compelling narrative or memorable characters. It feels more like a formulaic Hallmark movie than a unique cinematic experience. The film’s predictability, clichéd dialogue, and lack of character depth overshadow its visual beauty. While it may provide a brief escape into the picturesque landscapes of Cyprus, viewers may find themselves wishing for a more engaging story to accompany the stunning scenery.
