I fell asleep just before the climax. Admittedly, I was working on six hours sleep in the previous two days – but it was only 5 p.m. does that suggest the movie was less than compelling?

Ever taken part in a murder mystery? A group of people gets together, usually for a meal, people have assigned roles and try to solve a murder. Various clues are given as the evening unfolds, usually with each course of the dinner.

I’ve done it a couple of times, and it can be great fun. Though I don’t think I have ever successfully figured out who the killer was.

The Lovebirds feels like a bad murder mystery. One where you wish the meal could be over so you can finally go home. Somehow I missed it when it was released on Netflix, but I got caught up on a recent flight. I almost wish I hadn’t – but at least I did get to go home.

Jibran and Leilani are having relationship issues. Getting involved in a murder isn’t likely to help that, even if they aren’t responsible. Trying to solve the case to avoid being framed for the crime allows them opportunities to work through their issues. In theory anyway.

The Lovebirds is basically empty, even as it supposedly is an exploration of relationships. If it were a swimming pool this is the shallow end, with a big “no diving” sign.

Maybe their relationship would have been better if they had taken the time to get to know each other instead of sleeping together the night they met. But that’s Hollywood.

I can’t say I really enjoyed the film. I kept hoping it would get better. The premise did seem amusing, but the movie failed to deliver. 

It isn’t believable – but I get the impression it isn’t supposed to be. Yes, it’s a comedy, but on the stupid side as opposed to actually being funny. 

Which explains why I fell asleep at what should have been the most exciting part of the film. I simply just didn’t care enough to keep my eyes open. Nor did I care enough to rewind and watch the five minutes or so I napped through.

I thank that says it all.