High Fidelity – Review

After experiencing an earth-shattering breakup, record store owner Rob Gordon (Cusack) recounts his love life history in the form of a “Top 5” list, while juggling his emotions, and his employees Barry (Black) and Dick (Louiso). This is about the extent of the plot; however, it is told via an excellent narrative full of jokes, fun flashbacks and relatable moments.

As Rob recounts his life’s love experiences, we are whisked away though these segments of his life, and are shown his side of the events. Heartbreak after heartbreak occurs, some deserved, some unexplained. Most all of it is played to comedic results, and gives the actors plenty to exaggerate. Despite this excess, it never feels unauthentic or forced. There is a lot that hits home, despite what side of a breakup the viewer has been on.

Music plays a large part in this movie, almost acting as another character in the movie, however it is not a musical in any way. Classic songs are used as backdrops to scenes, as Rob and his employees and customers often debate the merits of bands and musicians, and what truly constitutes a record worth one’s ear-time.

High Fidelity remains a very fun time, backed with upbeat tunes and an optimistic take on most of its themes, eventually. The cast is great, especially some of the bit roles like Tim Robbins’ character, and the writing is entertaining and its enjoyable energy leaves viewers with a very pleasant experience, after a touch of drama.

High Fidelity was also later turned into a mini-series of the same name featuring Zoë Kravitz, which was solid enough albeit a tad long. Check it out also if you like the movie, it is a nice comparison piece.