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Prime Video's new romcom unexpectedly has critics buzzing.

Starring Camila Mendes, Archie Renaux and Marisa Tomei, Upgraded follows an ambitious intern dreaming of a career in the art world while trying to impress her demanding boss, Claire.

When she's upgraded to first class on a work trip, she meets handsome Will, who mistakes Ana for her boss – a white lie that sets off a glamorous chain of events, romance and opportunity until her fib threatens to surface.

Upgraded is now available to stream on Prime Video, and the first reviews from critics have it landing at 80% on Rotten Tomatoes with an 81% audience rating.

The film is being described as "sweet" and "charming", but there doesn't seem to be any overly enthusiastic hype from the critics despite its current high rating.

To read more initial reactions, check out our review roundup below. 

Review roundup

  • Variety: Heartening themes involving holding on tight to one's dreams and not devaluing one's self-worth make for an encouraging upgrade from the norm. It's even better since there are capable filmmakers piloting this transformative journey.
  • Collider: While the end product is still a fun watch, those hoping for a classic rom-com are left with a movie that leans far more on the "com" than the "rom."
  • Radio Times: While the central romance of Upgraded is something of a damp squib, the film does boast a fine comic turn from Tomei, plus a firecracking small role for Derry Girls' Saoirse-Monica Jackson.
  • San Francisco Chronicle: It's a sweet movie that accidentally expresses ideas that are complicated and perverse. This isn't enough to make Upgraded transcend its formula, but it does make it slightly better than it had to be.
  • Pop Culture Planet: Mendes and Renaux's chemistry is sweet and charming, while the supporting cast bring the humor. Tomei and her minions channel Devil Wears Prada-energy that makes for an instant rom-com classic, but the real highlight is the strong female empowerment.

This article first appeared on Men's Journal and was syndicated with permission.

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