The Hating Game
Directed by Peter Hutchings
- drama
- comedy
- romance
The story
Resolving to achieve professional success without compromising her ethics, Lucy embarks on a ruthless game of one-upmanship against cold and efficient nemesis Joshua, a rivalry that is complicated by her growing attraction to him.
What it’s like
Bright, glossy New York office light: fluorescent-clean corridors, sleek glass-walled meeting rooms, and a polished, cool-toned palette of greys, navy and white that warms as the romance thaws. The camera stays fairly conventional and tidy, with plenty of two-shots across desks and lingering reaction close-ups that play the rivalry for crisp, exaggerated comedy. Music leans on upbeat pop and rom-com needle-drops, with bright, bouncy cues in the office scenes and softer sentimental swells later. The pacing is brisk and bubbly, with quick banter and a steady rhythm of petty one-upmanship that tips gradually into tenderness. The tone is light, playful and warm, a sweet-sour mix of bickering and swooning. Intensity is low: some sexual tension and a kiss or two, a few adult-themed jokes, but no violence, gore or real fear. It suits a casual weekend watch, a lazy evening on the couch, or a cosy night in with a snack. It is for viewers who want an easy, funny romance with office-world stakes and a slow-burn payoff.
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