Here’s a bold statement: Relationship Goals is more than just a breezy romcom—it’s a faith-based film disguised as a millennial love story, and it’s sparking conversations about modern relationships, spirituality, and the role of women. But here’s where it gets controversial: while the movie charms with its nostalgic cast and fast-paced humor, it subtly pushes a message that marriage is a woman’s ultimate goal—a notion that’s bound to divide audiences. Is this a harmless romcom or a cleverly packaged sermon?
At first glance, Relationship Goals feels like a classic romantic comedy tailored for a specific generation. The ever-radiant Kelly Rowland stars as Leah, a powerhouse morning TV producer on the brink of becoming showrunner—until her network pits her against Jarrett (played by the effortlessly charming Method Man), a blast from her romantic past. The idea of a Destiny’s Child icon and a Wu-Tang Clan legend playing the ‘will they/won’t they’ game is irresistible, especially for those who grew up on their music. Add in director Linda Mendoza’s lightning-fast pacing, and the 90-minute runtime flies by like a nostalgic dream.
The film’s writing team, led by Michael Elliott (known for Just Wright and Carmen: A Hip Hopera), delivers a paint-by-numbers setup with efficiency. Leah’s quirky squad—Treese (Annie Gonzalez), the perpetually single makeup artist; Brenda (Robin Thede), the wistful anchor; and Roland (Ryan Jamaal Swain), the all-knowing assistant—speeds through backstory with snappy one-liners and audience winks. (Brenda’s ‘Project Put a Ring on It’ is a highlight.) Even Dennis Haysbert’s slower moments as Leah’s grieving father don’t derail the momentum.
But here’s the part most people miss: beneath its millennial charm, the film glosses over TV news realities (seriously, a three-week deadline for a Valentine’s Day puff piece?) and leans into faith-based themes. The soundtrack, jumping from Victoria Monét to the Doobie Brothers, distracts from plot holes like Leah’s questionable bomb threat to secure a cliché airport ending. And while the PG-13 rating suggests lighthearted fun, the movie’s true purpose becomes clear: it’s a faith-based film targeting women, especially those spending Valentine’s Day solo.
The real star? Pastor Michael Todd, a rising figure in prosperity gospel whose bestselling book Relationship Goals inspired the film. Todd and his wife, Natalie, are idolized by the characters, becoming the focus of Leah and Jarrett’s Valentine’s Day segment. The film even includes a pilgrimage to Todd’s megachurch in Tulsa, Oklahoma. Strip away the nostalgia and romance, and Relationship Goals feels like an extended infomercial for Todd’s ministry, produced by DeVon Franklin, another faith-meets-Hollywood figure.
This isn’t the first time relationship advice has hit the big screen. Steve Harvey’s Think Like a Man franchise faced backlash for repackaging outdated misogyny, and TD Jakes’s films often explore themes of feminine submission. Todd’s influence is undeniable, but is his message empowering or limiting? Comedian Druski’s viral sketch parodying ‘sneaker preachers’—clearly inspired by Todd’s controversial methods, like wiping phlegm on a worshipper’s eyes—sparked debates about megachurch excess. (Todd, for his part, found it funny.)
The film’s portrayal of marriage as a woman’s ultimate path to peace is its most polarizing aspect. Can you enjoy the humor and nostalgia while ignoring this underlying message? If so, the ride to the credits is delightful. But if you’re looking for a romcom without the sermon, this might not be your cup of tea.
What do you think? Is Relationship Goals a harmless escape or a problematic message in disguise? Let’s debate in the comments!
Relationship Goals is now streaming on Amazon Prime.
