SOLO MIO: Jonathan Roumie Steals the Show in Kevin James Rom-Com

I’ll admit it upfront, I have a major soft spot for Kevin James and the entire crew that has populated a universe of laughs for me for decades. Add in Alyson Hannigan, star of How I Met Your Mother and that series of films our parents still don’t know we watched, then throw in The Read More

I’ll admit it upfront, I have a major soft spot for Kevin James and the entire crew that has populated a universe of laughs for me for decades. Add in Alyson Hannigan, star of How I Met Your Mother and that series of films our parents still don’t know we watched, then throw in The Chosen’s Jonathan Roumie and the legendary Kim Coates, and you’ve officially got my attention. There’s even more I could say, but I’m sworn to secrecy.

I went into Solo Mio expecting something fun and sweet, a story about a groom left at the altar who takes his honeymoon through Italy alone. I expected heartwarming moments, beautiful scenery, and maybe, if we were lucky, a few big laughs in a world where comedies feel increasingly rare.

This movie delivers.

I had a screener and legitimately rewound multiple scenes just to watch them again and laugh. Not polite chuckles, real laughs.

The movie is kind of bonkers in the best way. There are moments that have no business being as funny as they are, and honestly, no business even being in this movie, yet somehow they work. At times it feels like sketch comedy woven straight into a romantic comedy arc. It shouldn’t blend. But it does.

For those who see the Angel label and are wondering about content, there’s a little mild language and perhaps a bit more Italian wine than you’d expect, along with the decisions that follow. That’s about it.

I can’t believe I’m saying this about a Kevin James rom-com, but I don’t want to spoil it. This isn’t Marvel-level spoiler territory, but there are a few moments where you’ll throw your hands in the air and ask, “What is happening right now… and why is ______ in ______?”

The cast absolutely delivers. We know Kevin James’ comedic timing. We know Hannigan’s warmth and wit. We know Kim Coates can command a screen with just a look.

But Jonathan Roumie steals this movie.

And I mean that in the best way possible. There are no shades of Jesus or Lonnie Frisbee here. As Neil, the sensible therapist guiding Matt Taylor (James) through the biggest heartbreak of his life, Roumie brings something grounded, funny, and surprisingly human. I want to quote entire exchanges between these two, but I’ll let you experience those moments firsthand.

Two final wins for this film.

First, the music rules. The Angel team secured some great tracks that perfectly sell the Italian group-vacation vibe. There’s one song I will never again be able to separate from this movie.

Second, the marketing campaign. “Dudes Get in Free?” A year-long Instagram account of Kevin James fully in character, never breaking the fourth wall. Commitment to the bit like that deserves applause.

You may think I’m gushing. I am.

Solo Mio is simply a sweet movie, and I want more of this kind of entertainment. Co-written by James, it’s not a sermon disguised as a screenplay. It doesn’t beat you over the head with a message. But there are moments that reflect James’ beliefs head-on. God isn’t absent from this journey.

And honestly, that’s a big part of what makes it work.