Rom-com comfort food.

Love them or hate them, you can’t deny a good rom-com. There was a time when the they were the toast of Hollywood. Then something happened and they vanished. Well, not completely, but they stopped making the money they once did and that was it, Hollywood moved on.

Then Netflix happened and the romantic comedy was back in the game. Modest budgets and a broad appeal make them ideal to fill out the streaming giant’s catalogue and, while this definitely means it serves up its fair share of dross, the output quality is relatively high overall.

And then there’s the impressive dedication to diversity. Titles like The Incredible Jessica James, Ali’s Wedding, and To All the Boys I’ve Loved Before all took unique angles on the traditional rom-com, infusing the genre with diverse stories and cultures beyond what we normally see.

That trend continues with Always Be My Maybe, which brings together the irrepressible pairing of Randall Park and Ali Wong for an all-Asian romance that’s become a tragically rare sight in Hollywood. As romcom pairings go, Park and Wong are absolute perfection, striking up an instant and irresistible chemistry you just can’t fake.

Romantic comedies sink or swim on their central couple but Park and Wong effortlessly lift Always Be My Maybe above its cliches to become an infinitely charming entry into the genre. Importantly, their romance feels natural and completely believable, but it’s their chemistry as comedians that makes the film pop, as they riff off one another like lifelong friends.

The comedy doesn’t always connect but it’s never less than delightful, with every moment of Park and Wong on screen together an absolute winner. By and large the humour comes naturally, although there are definitely times when the script’s comedy feels forced. But then you’ve got an inspired hipster douchebag Keanu Reeves cameo to liven things up. Because...why wouldn’t you?

Of course, in true romcom form, you have to expect a formula and Always Be My Maybe doesn’t disappoint. A little generic, the plot never really delivers anything out of the ordinary, holding the film back from reaching its full potential. We touch base with all the usual romcom beats with a plot you’ll see coming from a mile off, however, the film’s boundless charm ensures we’re never left bored.

As yet another feather in Netflix’s rom-com cap, Always Be My Maybe is an utterly delightful effort that leans heavily on the irresistible chemistry and comedy chops of its two stars. While it’s not offering anything we haven’t seen before, the film’s charm, lovable humour, and deep cultural roots take it a long way.