Serendipity is a fun romantic adventure that is a winner as a date movie. Jonathan Trager (John Cusack) and Sara Thomas (Kate Beckinsale) are two single people in serious relationships that happen to meet during the hustle and bustle of the New York holiday shopping season. After bonding over a pair of gloves at a local retail store, they decide to get a drink at a local spot called Serendipity. Although they have a great time, Sara refuses to give Jonathan her number, which he says she should “just in case.” Jonathan’s constant prodding finally sways Sara until an act of fate blows it away. Sara’s unusual belief in fate intrigues Jonathan, and they agree to put their contact information on two random things with the hopes that they’ll see each other again when they come back around. While both go on their separate ways, there seems to be something that continues to pull them together.

Serendipity is a smart romantic comedy that makes up for it’s hopeless romanticism with it’s undeniable charm. Cusack and Beckinsale make for a great couple and their chemistry and wit on screen works well. The sidekick duo of Jeremy Piven and Molly Shannon make for some hilarious moments, and the writing makes for a smarter comedy then the predictable physical comedy that you find in a lot of movies of this genre. The film manages to keep a solid pace that never really lets you get bored, filling any slower parts with witty dialogue that passes the time adequately. While some parts of the story can be a little over the top, that “movie magic” actually fits with the recurring theme of fate and destiny.

I think everyone deep down hopes that there is that one special someone out there for them, and that fate will eventually lead you to them. That premise is what drives Serendipity, and ultimately what gives it charm. The solid cast makes for an enjoyable experience and solid acting throughout, and the quality of the writing makes the film feel better than your average romantic comedy. As a date movie, Serendipity works for all situations. The story appeals to all ages and relationship levels, and the underlying theme of destiny and fate can breathe life into a very romantic evening.