When you’re trying to find ‘the one’, it’s important to fix your aim.
Directed by Linda Mendoza, Relationship Goals tells the story of Leah Caldwell (Kelly Rowland), a television executive who’s gunning for the position of showrunner of New York’s top morning talk show. Leah is loved by her boss but the network isn’t convinced that she can take on the role. As a result, Leah finds herself in direct competition with her ex, Jarret Roy (Cliff ‘Method Man’ Smith). As the two go head-to-head for the job, the tension between them show there might still be a spark between them, if they can get over the past of course.
Under Mendoza’s direction, Goals becomes a silly and upbeat tale of love in the modern era that’s a solid streaming pick during the Valentine’s season. While the film isn’t perfect, it’s so fueled with joy that one can’t help but fall in love with the exploits of its characters. Even in moments where they’re challenged with relationship struggles, there’s an optimism within the film that’s surprisingly infectious.
Every romcom rises and falls on the back of its lead couple and, without question, the stars who shine most brightly in Goals remain Rowland and ‘Method Man’ Smith. As Leah and Jarrett, the two are absolutely delightful together onscreen. There’s a genuine chemistry between them that sparkles when they’re allowed to do so. Rowland does a good job portraying Leah as a woman of focus and confidence, even if her attraction to Jarrett is clouded with hurt from the past. Meanwhile, after last year’s strong work in Shabbos, Smith continues to shine in comedic roles. Smith brings an undeniable charm to the role of Jarrett that makes him a delight to watch onscreen.
And, when the two are together, they positively sparkle.
While this remains a light-hearted romcom, it does have something to say. This is very much a story that wants to explore the challenges of the current dating world but call those on their apps to something more than swiping right. Leah, Brenda and Treese are all well-established women in the working world. But they’re all feeling stale in the romance department.
Even so, Goals doesn’t simply show them on the hunt for the man of their dreams. Instead, they’re looking for something of value. In this way, the film leans into the premises of the book upon which it’s based in order to make it worthwhile. For each of these characters, they’re not just looking for a notch on their bedpost anymore. They’re looking for something deeper and meaningful. Something more.
In short, they don’t want to date. They want to ‘fix their aim’ and date well.
Admittedly though, Relationship Goals doesn’t always hit its mark. Settling into many of the romcom tropes, the story takes few turns that are unexpected. What’s more, it’s worth noting that Relationship Goals not only wears its heart on its sleeve, but also its faith. Based on the book by Pastor Michael Todd, this is a story that leans more into its religious roots than one might expect. Characters speak openly about doing ‘what God wants them to do’ and attempting to put a deeper spiritual focus on their lives. (In fact, not only does Todd appear in the film, characters actively attend his church in one scene.) For some viewers, this may be an appealing aspect. For others, potentially not. However, for those who are wary, it’s worth noting that the film walks the line of faith without becoming too ‘preachy’, even if that does tap into the heart of the film’s storytelling.
But dang it, you can’t deny its charm.
In the end, Relationship Goals may be flawed but it still flies because of the magic of its leads. Yes , the script is often predictable and even cliché but, frankly, the film remains so playful that it still manages to be joyfully fun. This is the sort of romcom that’s perfect for streaming. It’s light, breezy and amusingly silly. Most importantly, it knows where it wants to go from the opening gate. And, in that way, it more than achieves its Goals.
Relationship Goals is available on Prime Video on Wednesday, February 4th, 2026.
