While I was pleased to find the U.S. and international versions differed very little, there were a few things that stood out.
1. Another Theme Song
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2. More Ramon
3. The Truth Comes Out
I don't have an answer for why, but the impact of the leaving in Holly and Oliver's explanations for falling for one another demonstrates more of an ability to communicate than the U.S. version reveals. See the U.S. version alone, and taking all the other interactions between Oliver and Holly combined, it is painfully obvious how wrong they were for each other on the grounds of communication alone.
Leaving the international version in its entirety, while extremely satisfying, complicates their relationship, as Holly and Oliver seem to communicate on the most important parts of their relationship rather effectively. It puts a kink in the narrative that paints Oliver as unable to directly address the situation at issue. We need this narrative to make his veiled conversation with Shane on her porch at the end of the film a step in the right direction, as opposed to a step back.
While I appreciate the international version as a point of comparison, I think I can honestly say for the sake of the story that I am glad the U.S. version left it out!
What do you think? Wish they would have left the extended scene with Holly in? Surprised to hear there are two different theme songs? Let me know in the comments!
With Ramon On Repeat,
~C