Writer’s block leads to romance in Morocco

? Love can come from the most unexpected places, and with the most unexpected people. Netflix’s latest romance flick Lonely Planet has quickly joined the platform’s long list of hit romantic dramas, securing a spot on the streaming service’s global top-watched roster for over a month.

How does this one go? Katherine Lowe (Laura Dern), a renowned novelist struggling with writer’s block and a divorce, heads to a secluded and scenic resort in Morocco, hoping for inspiration to strike as she looks to start her new novel. Upon arrival, she’s surprised to find that she’s not the only writer there — the resort is hosting a gathering of creatives to connect and network. Though Katherine longs for solitude and “quiet place to work,” fate brings an unexpected connection her way that changes the course of everything.

An unlikely bond: Owen (Liam Hemsworth) is a young business analyst and investor visiting the resort with his writer girlfriend, Lily (Diana Silvers). Owen and Katherine bump into each other and begin a series of conversations about life, travel, the world, and relationships. They spark up a connection that bridges age gaps and social differences — leaving each re-evaluating what they truly desire.

It’s more Eat Pray Love than The Notebook. While the chemistry between the two main protagonists was a pleasant surprise, it wasn’t quite enough to make the romantic angle convincing, given a lack of clear motivation and emotional depth. The film leans more toward self-discovery, using travel as a means to explore new perspectives and step out of one’s comfort zone. The film’s exposition of the scenic beauty of Morocco along with everything else makes it a light and enjoyable watch that fits comfortably in its genre.

WHERE TO WATCH- You can find the film on Netflix, or watch the trailer on YouTube (runtime: 2:15).