The 2024 romantic comedy “Find Me Falling”, directed and written by Stelana Kliris, is a charming exploration of love, life and second chances.
The Netflix film centres on John Allman, a famous American rock star portrayed by the versatile Harry Connick jr, who seeks refuge on the picturesque island of Cyprus after his latest album receives poor reviews.
John retreats to a secluded clifftop home, hoping to escape the pressures of his life and career
Known primarily for his jazz roots, Connick’s portrayal of a rock star may seem odd to some. However, Connick, a New Orleans native, is no stranger to rock music.
In a recent “Forbes” interview, he explained: “I grew up in New Orleans, where we played all sorts of stuff. I recorded rock and roll tunes on albums and have been in rock bands … So it felt comfortable (in ”Finding Me Falling“) and wasn’t too much of a stretch.”
Connick brings a polished yet relatable appeal to the character.
“Find Me Falling” follows the classic rom-com formula but adds a few surprises. The plot centres on John reconnecting with his long-lost love, Sia, played by the talented Agni Scott.
Sia, a career-driven single mother, is aloof. While their on-screen chemistry sometimes feels more argumentative than passionate, their interactions are compelling and heartfelt.
The film’s storyline is intertwined with a darker subplot about suicide, which creates an unexpected tonal shift.
The title hints at this juxtaposition of themes. In one scene, John humorously scolds a man looking to jump off a cliff, saying: “Now is not a good day to die!”
However, other moments are treated with more gravity, such as when John helps a young woman back from the edge, promising to support her.
Kliris’s script delves into Sia’s relationships with her daughter Melina, her sister Koula (Lea Maleni) and the family matriarch, Marikou (Aggeliki Filippidou).
The family dynamic enriches the narrative, grounding the story in Cypriot culture and making the setting more than just a picturesque backdrop.
Captain Manoli (Tony Demetriou), who gives John a tour of the town and introduces him to the local taverna, also plays a significant role in the story.
The movie was filmed on location in Cyprus, capturing the island’s breathtaking beauty. The house where John moves to is reminiscent of Carl and Ellie Fredricksen’s house in Pixar’s “Up”, symbolising a paradise where new beginnings are possible.
“Find Me Falling” offers a fresh take on the genre by blending light-hearted romance with more serious themes.
Connick shines as a rock star seeking peace, while Scott’s portrayal of Sia adds a layer of sophistication to the narrative.
With its beautiful setting and rich character dynamics, this film is worth watching.