Why the "Oh, Hi!" Ending Haunts Me—and the Director Explains the Casablanca Clue

A Unique 2025 Film That Stands Out

One of the most unique movie releases of 2025 that I’ve come across this year is Oh, Hi!, a film that features internet favorite Logan Lerman and The Bear star Molly Gordon. Directed by Sophie Brooks, this independent film explores the complexities of modern relationships through the story of Isaac and Iris, a couple who embark on a romantic getaway in a remote location. As they engage in some playful bondage, Isaac ends up handcuffed to the bed, setting off a series of events that reveal deep-seated issues in their relationship.

The film delves into themes of miscommunication and unspoken expectations, with Iris ultimately deciding to leave Isaac tied up until he reveals what she wants to hear. This dark comedy, co-written by Molly Gordon, offers a fresh perspective on how people navigate their connections in today’s world. It highlights how Iris believes she and Isaac are starting something meaningful, only to discover that Isaac had no intention of committing from the beginning.

The Influence of Casablanca

One of the most striking elements of Oh, Hi! is its clever use of references to Casablanca, the 1943 Best Picture winner. During the film, Iris and Isaac discuss their favorite movies, with Iris expressing her love for Casablanca. However, Isaac has never seen it, and he pretends to have done so. This small detail becomes a powerful metaphor for the larger theme of miscommunication that runs throughout the movie.

Sophie Brooks, the writer and director, explained during an interview that this reference was intentional. She noted that Casablanca represents a classic romantic film that many people idealize, even if they haven’t experienced it firsthand. In the context of the story, it serves as a symbol of how Iris romanticizes her relationship with Isaac, believing it to be something special when it wasn’t.

Miscommunication and Unspoken Truths

The use of Casablanca also underscores how Iris is conditioned to believe in the idea of romance, even when the reality doesn’t match her expectations. She continues to play along with Isaac’s lies because she likes him, even though he avoids discussing uncomfortable truths. This dynamic mirrors the way many people approach relationships—acting as if everything is clear while avoiding difficult conversations.

As the story progresses, Iris ties Isaac up in an attempt to force him to be honest. When he finally tells her that he doesn’t want a relationship, she quotes a line from Casablanca, saying, “We’ll always have ‘Oh, Hi!’” This moment is significant because it reflects how Iris views their brief connection as something meaningful, even though it didn’t last.

The Beauty of Short-Lived Love Stories

Brooks emphasized that Casablanca is not just a romantic film but also one that shows two people who don’t end up together. She pointed out that this doesn’t diminish the emotional impact of the story. Similarly, Oh, Hi! explores the idea that not all love stories need to last forever to be meaningful.

The film challenges the notion that a relationship must be long-term or healthy to hold value. Instead, it suggests that even short-lived romances can teach us important lessons about love, ourselves, and what we truly want.

Conclusion

Oh, Hi! is more than just a dark comedy—it’s a thoughtful exploration of modern relationships, miscommunication, and the power of nostalgia. By weaving in references to Casablanca, the film adds depth to its narrative, allowing viewers to reflect on the nature of love and how we perceive it. Whether it’s a fleeting connection or a long-term commitment, the film reminds us that every relationship has the potential to shape us in meaningful ways.