Hooking Up (2020) – An Unlikely Pair on a Road to Healing and Humor
Genre: Comedy, Drama
Director: Nico Raineau
Starring: Brittany Snow, Sam Richardson, Vivica A. Fox, Anna Akana, Jordana Brewster
Hooking Up is a quirky and heartfelt road trip comedy that brings together two very different people—each at a crossroads in life. Brittany Snow plays Darla, a former sex columnist trying to rebuild her career after being fired for her outrageous content. Sam Richardson is Bailey, a soft-spoken cancer survivor dealing with the emotional and physical fallout of his illness.
The two meet by chance at recovery meetings—Darla’s for sex addiction, Bailey’s for cancer support. Sparks don’t fly immediately, but an opportunity does: Darla pitches an idea to recreate her past sexual escapades for a blog series, and convinces Bailey to come along for the ride. As they travel cross-country reliving Darla’s wild past, Bailey also seeks to confront his own history, particularly with an ex-fiancée he’s never gotten over.
What starts as a mutually beneficial arrangement slowly becomes something more. Both characters, deeply flawed but endearing, begin to see each other—and themselves—in a different light. Brittany Snow brings an edgy vulnerability to Darla, while Sam Richardson balances sincerity and humor with grace.
While the film deals with sensitive issues—addiction, illness, insecurity—it does so with a lightness that keeps it from becoming too heavy. The humor often lands, and the emotional beats are surprisingly effective. The chemistry between the leads is key, and they deliver, making this offbeat journey feel authentic.
Hooking Up may not break new ground in the rom-com genre, but it offers a fresh take on healing, intimacy, and second chances. For viewers who enjoy character-driven stories with a mix of humor and emotional depth, this film is a charming and unconventional ride.
💬 Have you seen this one? Let us know what you think in the comments!
