Review of The Upper Hand: A Comedy of Errors in High Heels
Picture this: a feisty single mom named Charlie (played by the fabulous and always charming Hannah Waddingham) is just trying to make a life for her and her daughter, while juggling work and the occasional existential crisis. Enter the suave and utterly clueless Tom (because of course, every rom-com needs a Tom), played by the handsome but slightly dim Ricky Whittle. Spoiler alert: Tom is more of a walking disaster than a Prince Charming.
Now, Charlie is trying to run a successful catering business, which is the only thing keeping her from losing her mind, her house, and possibly her daughter to the local child protective services. But wait! Tom, who is supposed to be the help, turns out to be more of a hindrance. He accidentally sets fire to her kitchen during a fancy dinner party that’s supposed to impress some big clients. Let’s just say, it’s not exactly the Michelin star evening she envisioned.
As the story unfolds, we learn that Charlie’s ex is a complete jerk and shows up to stir up trouble, because of course, what’s a rom-com without a meddling ex? Tom, being the lovable oaf he is, decides to play the knight in shining armor, but all he manages to do is trip over his own feet while trying to rescue a cat stuck in a tree. Spoiler: the cat is fine, but the tree? Not so much.
Throughout the film, there are more misunderstandings than at a family reunion after a few too many drinks. Charlie and Tom develop a bond that’s as sweet as Texas tea, but it’s full of awkward moments that make you cringe and laugh simultaneously. Who knew a romantic dinner could involve a splattered cake face and a trip to the ER? Talk about the perfect recipe for romance!
Eventually, after a series of mishaps that would make any sane person reconsider their life choices, Charlie and Tom finally realize they have feelings for each other. But oh no! Just when it seems like they might get their act together, Charlie’s ex shows up with a proposal to take their daughter away. Cue dramatic music and the realization that true love means standing up to your past. Spoiler: Charlie kicks him to the curb, and not in the cute way you’d expect from a rom-com.
In the end, Charlie, with a little help from her friends (and a lot of help from Tom’s unintentional antics), finds the strength to reclaim her life, her business, and her heart. Tom may not be the sharpest tool in the shed, but he’s got a heart of gold, and that’s what really counts. They share a passionate kiss in front of a burning kitchen (because what’s more romantic than that?), and we’re left with a warm, fuzzy feeling and a reminder that sometimes the best love stories are the ones that come with a side of chaos.
So, grab your best friend and settle in for a ride filled with laughter, tears, and a few fire extinguishers. The Upper Hand proves that love can be messy, but it’s always worth it in the end—unless you’re Tom, who might just need a bit of a lesson in fire safety.