Lindsay Lohan returns to the screen with a delightful mix of romance and fantasy in “Irish Wish,” directed by Janeen Damian. This charming tale follows Maddie Kelly (Lohan), a book editor secretly harboring feelings for her author, the suave but somewhat bland Paul Kennedy (played by Alexander Vlahos). Maddie’s romantic aspirations take an unexpected turn when her friend Emma (Elizabeth Tan) connects with Paul, leading to an unplanned trip to Ireland for his lavish wedding.
Amidst the hustle and bustle of travel, Maddie inadvertently switches suitcases with James, an English photographer, sparking a series of misadventures. As Maddie finds herself thrust into a marriage with Paul due to a wish made on a mystical stone chair, she soon discovers that getting what she wished for isn’t always as magical as it seems.
Lohan’s comedic prowess shines as Maddie navigates the complexities of her newfound situation, particularly in her interactions with the charming James, portrayed by Ed Speleers. Their on-screen chemistry adds depth to the romantic storyline, complemented by picturesque Irish landscapes and a whimsical score by Nathan Lanier.
While the film excels in its lead performances, the supporting cast falls short in delivering memorable performances. Despite standout portrayals by Vlahos as the shallow Paul, Seymour’s role as Maddie’s mother feels underutilized, leaving room for improvement in future productions.
“Irish Wish” offers a pleasant escape into a world where love and destiny intertwine, though its familiar storyline may not leave a lasting impression. Nevertheless, Lohan’s return to the spotlight proves captivating, hinting at promising opportunities for her future endeavors in the romantic comedy genre.
| Aspect | Summary |
|---|---|
| Plot | Maddie, a book editor, secretly loves her author Paul. A wish unexpectedly lands her in a marriage with Paul, but she realizes they’re incompatible. She finds herself drawn to James, a photographer. |
| Lindsay Lohan’s Performance | Lohan shines as Maddie, bringing charm and comedic talent. Her chemistry with Ed Speleers adds depth to the romantic scenes. Physical comedy is amusing, though editing could be smoother. |
| Irish Atmosphere | Stunning Irish countryside, featuring mystical locations like Lough Tay and Cliffs of Moher. Adds to the film’s charm and enhances the romantic storyline. |
| Supporting Cast | Vlahos excels as Paul, but Seymour’s role as Maddie’s mother feels underused. Mulcahy’s portrayal of Paul’s mother feels like a stereotype. |
| Overall Assessment | “Irish Wish” is a charming but forgettable romantic comedy. Enjoyable despite minor flaws. Lohan’s presence elevates the movie. A higher-budget rom-com for Lohan would be welcomed. |
