Review: Spinster

Let’s face the facts; getting older is not fun. Especially if you’re childless, single, and a woman. Sure, men can say they have it hard, but when you are woman nearing the age of thirty (or forty), certain expectations start hitting you in the face. Every family gathering begins with, “Are you seeing anyone?” And of course, parents know just the right thing to say to make you feel guilty for not providing them with any grandchildren. This anti-romcom is a very real look into what it’s like to walk in a single woman’s shoes.

After an abrupt and hilarious break-up, Gabby (Chelsea Peretti) suddenly finds herself single on her 39th birthday. After being somewhat shamed for her current relationship status and not wanting children, Gabby attempts to find love on-line. One bad date leads to the next; she decides enough is enough and begins to work on herself and make her dream of owning a restaurant come true. 

Through each season, we begin to see Gabby settle into her new life. She becomes close to her neighbor, builds a stronger connection with her shy niece, fixes her relationship with her best friend, and even adopts an adorable dog for companionship. With every relationship, we finally see Gabby blossom and become a stronger person.

As soon as her life seems to be on-track, she meets a man on a hike. Lost and scared, Gabby rescues him, and they spend the day together. It almost seems like the perfect guy just fell into her lap. Not wanting to shake up the life she’s created, Gabby decides romance isn’t worth the risk and walks away, leaving the perfect day and man behind her.

While the word itself has a negative connotation, Spinster takes away bad taste and gives the word a stronger meaning. It was refreshing to see a woman in a film unapologetically choose herself for once. It’s a heartfelt story that shows there’s more to life than marriage. The main takeaway is true happiness can be found in the relationships you already have and achieving your dreams. 

The film has a rocky start, but finds its footing rather quickly and becomes the sweet and funny movie it originally aimed to be. Chelsea Peretti’s nuanced performance makes what could have been an unlikeable character charming and relatable. Her dry humor and quick delivery brought comedic life into a film that could have quickly turned into a downer. And while it may not be the happily-ever-after you were expecting, the film leaves you with a sweet and satisfying ending.