Emotional Journey: Brett Goldstein and Imogen Poots in ‘All of You’

A curious onlooker asks Simon, “What’s the deal with you two?” He replies, “We’re like BFFs,” capturing the essence of their connection, though hinting at something deeper. What if their bond transcended friendship?

“All of You,” an Apple TV release, delicately tackles this familiar theme with more sincerity than is often found in mainstream cinema. It presents a blend of chaos, romance, and profound sadness, all wrapped in soulful moments.

In this very British romantic drama, Goldstein and Poots delve into ideas of fate, regret, and the concept of everlasting love. Goldstein, known for his role in “Ted Lasso,” exhibits a softer side here, while Poots alternates between playful and deeply vulnerable.

The screenplay, crafted by Goldstein and William Bridges, introduces us to Laura as she embarks on a compatibility test to discover her soulmate. Simon, concerned about the ramifications, worries it may jeopardize their friendship. “It’ll be the end of everything,” he laments.

Laura does find her match—someone who seems to be the ideal partner—but he isn’t Simon. This new love story leads her into a conventional life, complete with a husband and child, yet she feels an underlying guilt.

As time unfolds, Laura and Simon confront their undeniable connection, and an affair emerges, marked by the highs of love and the stresses of life. Simon admits, “All I want is to be with you through all of it,” highlighting both the beauty and betrayal of their relationship.

Bridges, who also directs, allows for moments of silence between characters, enhancing their emotional exchanges. The transitions between scenes—a car door shutting under the stars, then opening to daylight—effectively convey the passage of time, though it’s sometimes unclear how much has elapsed.

This film serves as a revisitation of themes first presented in the short-lived AMC anthology, “Soulmates.” Now, Goldstein and Bridges offer a more complete story about second chances and undeniable love.

Viewers are drawn into the lives of this star-crossed pair, feeling the weight of their choices. Laura reflects, “We hurt people, and they don’t even know it,” as their dilemma deepens. Her participation in the soulmate test adds to the complexity of her character.

Goldstein succeeds in portraying a convincing leading man while also penning a tender, human story, and Poots delivers a remarkable performance filled with raw emotion. Their on-screen chemistry, supported by humor and genuine laughter, is enchanting.

Expect some lighthearted moments, but keep tissues nearby. The emotional stakes are high, and the tears will likely flow.

“All of You,” which streams on Apple TV starting Friday, is rated R for sexual content, language, and brief drug use, with a runtime of 99 minutes. It’s a charming yet heartbreaking tale worth experiencing.