Movies

Reflecting on the Absurdities of 'One Night Only'

· 5 min read

After years of analyzing films, I can confidently say that few movies have lodged themselves in my mind quite like *One Night Only*. Directed by Will Gluck, the film stars Callum Turner and Monica Barbaro as singles navigating a uniquely absurd world where, once a year, premarital sex is actually legalized. The premise itself raises eyebrows and ignites a flurry of questions, making for an entertaining and thought-provoking viewing experience.

As I settled into an empty theater in North Hollywood for the 8:35 a.m. screening on release day, my mind swirled with initial thoughts:

  1. What year did premarital sex become illegal in this reality?
  2. Why just one Purge Night? Was there a legislative debate that I missed?
  3. Did a conservative government actually decide to grant one night of unbridled sexual freedom?
  4. Are there secret organizations promoting casual sex under these laws?
  5. I wonder—should I get involved in this underground network?
  6. It's just the opening scene with Callum making pizza, and I'm already overwhelmed!
  7. The idea that “single people can only have sex once a year” feels like an absurd plot twist straight from a show like *30 Rock*.
  8. How are people supposed to hydrate for this marathon of hookups? Should they stock up on bananas and electrolytes?
  9. What happens on this one night if you're not in the mood?
  10. Monica's character is on a quirky mission, trying to make a plaque psoriasis commercial fun. God bless her for that effort!
  11. Wait, couples can still celebrate this bizarre holiday?
  12. Why wouldn’t they just want to stay home and ride out the chaos together?
  13. Anti-sex law graffiti? Now that’s a serious rebellion!
  14. Those high hoop earrings definitely signal a straight persona.
  15. If one can only have sex legally on Purge Night, why endure the pressure of scouting a partner?
  16. This seems like a lot of pressure—what if someone misses the chance?
  17. Clearly, women love their intricate salads!
  18. Is there really a need to drag innocent waitstaff into this sexual frenzy?
  19. Girl, you’ve plotted a whole cheating scheme and haven’t even secured a private space?
  20. The rush for hotel bookings must be insane!
  21. Doesn’t anyone wonder about the economic impacts of Sex Purge Night? Are sex toys subsidized?
  22. Interesting twist—teen pregnancies and STIs are reportedly at all-time lows.
  23. Tracking this by biosensors? How does that even work?
  24. Are these biosensors given at birth or do you need one to vote?
  25. My stress headache grows with every unanswered question!
  26. Protection is mandatory? What’s the enforcement mechanism?
  27. Sex Purge time happens, and suddenly everyone’s just….. doing it.
  28. What about non-heteronormative relationships? Are they excluded or does their sex count?
  29. Hey, is that Molly Ringwald playing Callum’s mother?
  30. The dialogue hints at a strange world for queer people under these laws.
  31. Why would straight single men plan a bros’ night on this chaotic evening?
  32. How did Congress even pass this law?
  33. Ah, yes, the shadowy but helpful lesbian character without a backstory!
  34. Monica’s self-image as “not hot” is perplexing.
  35. Do dating apps even exist in this universe? Are hookups purely left to chance?
  36. Unfortunately relatable: getting sick during a date and ruining the moment.
  37. Bobby Cannavale and Pete Davidson? A curious casting choice!
  38. So, TikTok does exist, but what’s the dating scene like on regular nights?
  39. Julia Fox appears, keeping the vibe alive with her effortless charisma.
  40. Noticing the upcoming KY lubricant trend feels so on the nose.
  41. Hey, don’t dedicate your only night to someone’s close-up magic show!
  42. But…do threesomes not qualify as gay sex?
  43. Why is it that piano-playing at bars is so common on this night?
  44. Time for sex, folks!
  45. If Monica decides to sample multiple partners, I’m here for it!
  46. How is there no pre-purge planning for supplies? Condoms should be stocked up!
  47. Sure, Callum had a monogamous intent, but still… prepare for the night!
  48. This cover of “Blister in the Sun” gives off some solid vibes.
  49. I have to ask: what’s with the manhole scene? Clarity, please!
  50. How do cops intervene during such a regulated event?
  51. Wait, he’s on parole for breaking sexual laws?
  52. In a world governed by these peculiar rules, police actions feel more relevant than ever!
  53. Are dating apps usable outside of this night? Wouldn’t that be a must-have for such a purged evening?
  54. Am I the only one who thinks the concept of Sex Purge Night should be taken somewhat seriously?
  55. Robbing guys on Sex Purge Night? That’s clever!
  56. Not wanting superficial sex? Wise words from Monica Barbaro.
  57. Did Buck Mason or KY lube fund this production?
  58. This is going nowhere…
  59. When she says “Nothing would convince me to have sex with you,” you know what's next.
  60. Monica really can sing—or whoever’s singing for her must be phenomenal.
  61. The line “Maybe the fascists were right about this” is chillingly satirical.
  62. This guitarist isn't winning me over. Sorry, buddy!
  63. If I found out Molly Ringwald lived in the same house as my date, I’d definitely roll with it!
  64. Does Callum own the pizza joint? That’s an impressive subplot!
  65. That question about favorite sexual experiences? A bit odd yet entertaining.
  66. I genuinely miss King Princess and her bold fashion choices.
  67. How do biosensors identify breakups? I’m bewildered!
  68. I seriously need a moment to process all this.
  69. Okay, King Princess is engaged. Plot twist!
  70. The lighthouse? Oh, so that’s the call to adventure!
  71. Would any suitor ever find me without staked-out fast food joints?
  72. And here’s the kiss!
  73. Can kissing happen officially? This many minutes left in the night?
  74. Well, that was quite the experience—was that 1 hour and 42 minutes of glory or confusion?
  75. For a film, it’s fairly short; as an advert, it’s exceptionally long!
  76. Confusion reigns supreme in my mind.
Source: Emma Specter · www.vogue.com