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Perfect Strangers (2016)

2016 • 1h 37m • Drama, Comedy
On September 24, 2026
#7927▼ 427
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All reviews

Reno on Perfect Strangers

9/10 · Jul 14, 2016

Dinner party films often revolve around family, friends, or business gatherings—events triggered by occasions like weddings, funerals, or promotions. This film presents a group of long-time friends who regularly meet, and the story unfolds during one such evening, cautiously exploring sensitive topics related to marriage and trust within their friendships. I hadn't been certain I’d enjoy my first Italian film in nearly a year, but I’m glad I chose this one. I encourage you to watch it yourself before forming an opinion; it’s genuinely a good comedy-drama with a dark tone. We’ve all become accustomed to modern life and the convenience of technology, particularly cell phones, which have become as essential as clothing—a distinctly artificial connection to the digital world. However, these devices can also create problems, being products of AI rather than human interaction. It seems easier to predict someone's future by examining their phone records than consulting a horoscope. The film centers on seven friends—three married couples and one single man—who gather for a dinner party they’ve maintained for years, providing an opportunity to share updates about their lives. Amidst laughter and serious conversations, the strength of their bonds is tested when a game emerges: everyone must place their phones on the table, exposing all calls, texts, and emails to the group. It's easy to imagine how difficult it would be to maintain a clean slate in such a situation. The atmosphere grew increasingly tense with each notification, and I found myself watching intently. The focus isn’t necessarily about what people are hiding, but rather their reactions when secrets are revealed—a moment where adults revert to the awkwardness of being caught by their parents. Friendships dissolve as individuals become strangers because friends should support one another during difficult times; however, in this scenario, actions were extreme. This complicates matters for those who are married, since everyone seems entangled in something. While I’ve seen similar films before, this one felt unique in its simplicity. The opening scenes contrast sharply with the film's conclusion, demonstrating how careless words can ruin a beautiful occasion—a lesson learned as people become more cautious about what they say. It isn’t comparable to ‘August: Osage County,’ but it represents a modern evolution of that theme, addressing the digital challenges facing humanity. The film highlights the potential for disruption caused by cell phones, prompting reflection on what might occur with robots in the future. I briefly considered whether it was an Italian version of 'Coherence,' noting the inclusion of a lunar eclipse. You’ll understand its significance when you watch. While there's no final twist, the ending is unexpected and clarifies the meaning of the title. The screenplay is excellent, and the actors deliver strong performances; this is among the best films I’ve seen so far this year. It isn’t a sci-fi or thriller spectacle but rather a clever drama—one that might be considered for a remake. Though not everyone will appreciate it as much as I did, I recommend it. If you enjoy dialogue-driven movies, you'll likely find it enjoyable. 8.5/10

Source on TMDB