Mara (Katherine Langford) is in senior year of High School looking forward to prom and graduation when one day during class one of her fellow students spontaneously combusts. Driven by the possibility that any moment could be his last, Dylan (Charlie Plummer) lets Mara know that he has a crush on her. But how do they navigate a blossoming romance and graduate when any moment could be their last? 

If you are looking for a coming of age comedy they don’t get any more unusual than this. Acerbically funny, led by a charismatic lead protagonist and prepared to change the subject it focuses on multiple times Spontaneous is a refreshing and humorous take on the genre. Oh and if horror is not your thing, do not panic, aside from an explosion every now and then this is not in that genre. 

In amongst the comedy and pop culture references to the likes of Carrie, E.T., Unforgiven and The Bad News Bears the film also tackles some important social issues facing teenagers. Clearly the main message is about living your life and seizing the day because any moment could be your last. But it also takes time to focus on the fear of school shootings, teenage depression, the feeling of not quite fitting in and dealing with grief. It also takes regular swipes at Trump, Republicans, politicians in general and the fact that “thoughts and prayers” achieve nothing compared to actual action. 

At the centre of the film is a winning performance from Katherine Langford, a sweet romance between Mara and Dylan and a believable best friend played by Yvonne Orji. 

Lots of fun.