"High Fidelity" is a American romantic comedy web series based on the novel and film of the same name and set in Crown Heights, Brooklyn. The series stars Zoë Kravitz as Rob, the ultimate music fan with a record store who is obsessed with pop culture and “top 5 lists.” Rob has an epiphany while taking care of her store and wants to contact her recent exes to figure out what led to the demise of their relationship. Chaos soon ensues as old wounds and past struggles come to light in Rob’s journey of self-discovery.
Along with Kravitz, the series stars Da'Vine Joy Randolph as Cherise, an employee of the record store and also a close friend of Rob’s who is also on a path of self discovery. Struggling to articulate and showcase her inner music talent, Cherise finds herself in some pretty embarrassing situations. Rounding out the trio is David H. Holmes as Simon, Rob’s best friend who also happens to be on Rob’s "top 5 list of ultimate heartbreaks" after Simon comes out to her as gay. Cherise and Simon play amazing supporting characters in the series, really giving off authentic vibes and bettering the group dynamic.
Throughout the series, Rob finds herself in some pretty cooky situations, driven by her inner issues; it is great to see her acknowledge those issues and grow as a character.
Most of the series is based around Rob and her past with one specific ex named Mac; she and this ex had previously been engaged, though after the breakup he moves abroad, returning back to town after a year, newly engaged to a different woman. This forces Rob to make a genuine attempt to figure herself out.
Rob also has another love interest: Clyde, played by Jake Lacy. The pair really hits it off after Rob is forced to continue their date after trying to ditch but then realizing she left her phone. Clyde adds a great element to the series, giving the audience a start-to-finish feel not seen with Rob and Mac.
Thomas Doherty of "Descendants" fame also stars in the series as Liam Showcross. While playing a minor love interest to Rob, he delivers great music such as “I’ll Make Love To You," "Till It Hits The Ground,“ and "Gimmie Light/New Tattoo.” These musical elements greatly contribute to the emotion of the series and bode well with its musical theme.
While the series is a remake of a film starring John Cusack, it's great to see the series be so similar in regards to plot but switching the genders of the original characters. The series could do better in its pacing, but altogether the series is a must-watch as you really get to see Zoë Kravitz in her prime.
I rate this series 4 out of 5 Swoops.
