Review: ‘Portrait of a Serial Monogamist’ is a slight rom-com

Despite a few inspired moments and some fun banter, “Portrait of a Serial Monogamist” is a slight, often random lesbian comedy that offers little new in the way of authentic depth or enlightenment.

The script, by co-directors Christina Zeidler and John Mitchell, proves as uncertain and meandering as its romantically challenged lead character. That would be Elsie (Diane Flacks), a 40-ish Toronto TV producer who decides to end her five-year relationship with performance artist Robyn (Carolyn Taylor).

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Elsie is happily free but, as always, eager to find a new girlfriend. However, when Elsie accepts a dare to stay single for five months, it’s clear that’ll be rough sledding for this serial monogamist. In typical rom-com form, the sexy if seemingly reluctant Lolli (Vanessa Dunn) lands in Elsie’s path and, well, watch what happens.

Unfortunately, not much, as the story becomes wobbly and ill-defined. Flacks is an engaging actress, but it’s hard to fully embrace her self-absorbed, inconsistent character. Elsie’s quirky, at-times-interchangeable friends are unevenly performed.

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Still, a hilarious scene in which Elsie learns how to meet women at the dog park is a high point.

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“Portrait of a Serial Monogamist”

No MPAA rating

Running time: 1 hour, 22 minutes

Playing: Arena Cinema, Hollywood