The Map of Tiny Perfect Things is another spin on the ol’ time loop formula. We just had the broad comedy take on the Groundhog Day classic last year with Palm Springs and this new film finds its own niche. The genre includes horror comedy takes, action sci-fi takes and now a teen romantic comedy. And really a pretty charming one at that.

The film launches in the middle of the time loop for a teenage boy going through the day for the umteenth time. He’s aware of science fiction and time loop conventions, having seen at least Groundhog Day and Edge of Tomorrow (not to mention other timey wimey, wibbly wobbly shows like Dr. Who). But on his way to finding out why he’s stuck in the loop, he encounters a teenage girl also stuck in the loop with them. They join forces to figure out how to escape, if they want to escape, and create a map of all the tiny perfect things that happen in a day.

And, really, that’s a pretty lovely thought… a map of the tiny little things that make life wonderful. It gives the film a certain charm and outlook while playing with all the tropes of the genre. Not too different from Bill Murray’s perfect day but kind of broadened to the majesty of the average (in some ways itself inspired by some Dr. Who). As the film progresses, its sunny and inspiring outlook kind of grows on you and what starts as a breezy teen comedy starts to feel more grand.

I don’t think it’s changing the world, but I rather dug this film’s optimistic outlook. It’s attempts at a grand vision in the small, I guess. It might run a little long and it might not be the most original film, but it’s charming, well acted, and a little inspirational, I guess.

Score: 85