JOSH AND HAZEL'S GUIDE TO NOT DATING

Insisting that they’re not a couple, two best friends try to help each other find love.

Hazel Bradford and Josh Im first met in college, and it was not love at first sight. Seven years later, they’re reunited when Hazel ends up teaching at Josh’s sister’s school. Josh is already in a relationship, and it’s no surprise to Hazel that she’s still single. Her high-energy quirkiness is not for everyone, and it’s definitely not for a nice, normal guy like Josh—or so she thinks. Despite their mutual attraction, they agree to be just friends. After Josh’s relationship falls apart, Hazel takes him on a series of blind double dates to help them both get back in the game. Meanwhile, Hazel’s apartment floods, and Josh agrees to take her in. The dates—eight altogether, all of them bad—fly by in a blur of awkward conversations and uncomfortable reunions with exes. Really, they’re excuses for Hazel and Josh to flirt without the risk. They’re in love, but they’re not ready to admit it just yet. Josh’s mellow vibe balances Hazel’s electric personality to great effect. “Does it make sense that I put my vases in the oven when it’s not in use, so that my parrot doesn’t knock them over?” she asks herself. “These are things other people might question—but not Josh.” Hazel thinks she’s undatable, but Josh thinks she’s hilarious, and she proves him right on each failed double date.

With exuberant humor and unforgettable characters, this romantic comedy is a standout.