Director: Caroline Lindy
Writer: Caroline Lindy
Stars: Melissa Barrera, Meghann Fahy, Tommy Dewey
Synopsis: After her life falls apart, soft-spoken actress Laura Franco finds her voice again when she meets a terrifying, yet weirdly charming Monster living in her closet. A romantic-comedy-horror film about falling in love with your inner rage.
Your Monster is, hands-down, the most fun I’ve had with a rom-com in recent memory. It’s like a Beauty and the Beast story, but instead of a fancy castle, it’s set in your mom’s house, and the Beast is a total grump with a serious case of “get out of my closet” syndrome. Add in some delicious rom-com vibes, a dash of horror, and Melissa Barrera delivering a performance so fabulous that you can’t take your eyes off her, and you’ve got a film that’s an absolute blast!
Barrera plays Laura Franco, and let’s just say, her life is a total mess at the start. She’s just gone through surgery, her terrible playwright boyfriend Jacob (Edmund Donovan, who you’ll definitely want to boo off the screen) has dumped her, and now she’s recovering in her mom’s empty house. Yep, her mom is MIA—no texts, no notes, nothing. But don’t worry, her bestie Mazie (played by Kayla Foster, who’s bubbly in all the best ways) is by her side, doing her best to keep Laura from totally falling apart.
Now, this is where things take a turn way off the rom-com map. One night, during a super creepy thunderstorm, Laura meets the monster in her closet. And when I say “monster,” I mean full-on monster—sharp teeth, growly voice, and absolutely no chill. He’s been living there for years, and he’s not happy about Laura moving back in. In fact, he gives her two weeks to pack up and get out. Yep, two weeks! Imagine having an eviction notice from a creature living behind your shoes—wild, right? But as you probably guessed, things don’t go as planned.
So here’s where Your Monster really shines. The movie is technically a romantic comedy, but it’s got all these little quirky twists that make it feel like a breath of fresh air. It’s not just about the will-they-or-won’t-they, it’s about how Laura starts piecing her life back together with a little help from, well, her childhood closet monster (Tommy Dewey). The chemistry between Barrera and Dewey is so much fun to watch—it’s awkward, sweet, and downright swoon-worthy in parts (seriously, there’s a scene with Szechuan chicken that had me melting). It’s giving major “weird but wonderful” vibes, and I am here for it.
But don’t let the cutesy parts fool you—this movie has some depth. Laura’s not just some damsel waiting to be saved. She’s struggling to figure out who she is after a breakup and a major health scare, and Monster (yes, that’s his name—love the simplicity) isn’t just your average growly guy. He’s got his own baggage too, and their relationship becomes this fun, messy, heartwarming journey of self-discovery for both of them. By the time Laura is ready to go after a part in Jacob’s Broadway play (one he literally wrote for her while they were together), you’re fully rooting for her. The way the film balances light, funny moments with real emotional beats is what makes it so special.
The visuals in Your Monster are stunning. Will Stone’s cinematography turns even the smallest sets into whimsical playgrounds, and there’s a Halloween party that is absolutely to die for. The lights, the costumes (thank you, Matthew Simonelli!), the vibes—it’s a rom-com dream come true. And let’s not forget the soundtrack. It’s a mix of classic love songs and original music that just wraps you up in the feels.
As the movie heads toward its grand finale, things get surprisingly intense—think Black Swan, but with more monster claws and romantic swooning. It’s one of those films that doesn’t shy away from its horror roots, but still manages to keep everything feeling light and fun. The final act is a bold mix of heart and humor, with just enough blood to keep it exciting.
At its core, Your Monster is a love letter to anyone who’s felt lost, brokenhearted, or like their life is falling apart. It’s about finding the strength to move forward, even if you need a little push from the monster living in your closet. And honestly? That’s what makes this movie so special. It’s not just cute—it’s got layers, and it knows how to tug on your heartstrings while making you laugh and squeal in delight.
Bottom line: If you’re looking for a rom-com that’s equal parts charming, hilarious, and a little spooky, Your Monster is your new obsession. Get ready to fall in love with monsters, messy lives, and the magical, chaotic beauty of it all.
