A Fresh Perspective: “Anyone But You” Brings Rom-Com Magic Back to Theaters

In a world where streaming dominates, “Anyone But You” dares to reignite the spark of romantic comedies on the big screen. This charming film has generated buzz among movie enthusiasts and critics alike, promising a delightful blend of laughter, love, and scenic Australian vistas. But does this new entry in the rom-com genre deliver on its promises? Let’s dive into our review and uncover what makes this film stand out.

Unpacking the Story

At its heart, “Anyone But You” follows the time-honored tradition of romantic comedies while infusing fresh elements that resonate with today’s audiences. The plot revolves around Bea (Sydney Sweeney) and Ben (Glen Powell), two young professionals whose initial chemistry fizzles out after a promising first date. Fate, however, has other plans, thrusting them into a fake relationship at a destination wedding in Australia.

While the “pretend couple” trope isn’t new to the genre, the film explores this concept with a contemporary lens. It delves into the complexities of modern relationships, touching on themes like career pressures, family expectations, and the impact of social media on romance. These elements add depth to what could have been a predictable narrative, offering viewers a more nuanced take on love in the 21st century.

The Australian backdrop serves as more than just eye candy. From Sydney’s iconic harbor to the rugged beauty of its coastlines, the setting becomes an integral part of the story. It provides a fish-out-of-water element that pushes our protagonists out of their comfort zones, leading to both hilarious mishaps and genuine moments of connection.

Star Power and On-Screen Chemistry

One of the film’s greatest strengths lies in its casting. Sydney Sweeney, known for her dramatic roles, proves her versatility by diving headfirst into comedy. Her portrayal of Bea balances vulnerability with sharp wit, creating a character that’s both relatable and aspirational. Glen Powell, fresh from his “Top Gun: Maverick” success, brings charm and depth to Ben, showcasing a range that goes beyond the typical rom-com lead.

The chemistry between Sweeney and Powell is palpable, driving the film forward even in its quieter moments. Their banter feels natural, with a push-and-pull dynamic that keeps viewers invested in their journey from reluctant allies to potential lovers. This on-screen rapport is crucial in selling the film’s premise and elevating it above run-of-the-mill romantic comedies.

Supporting cast members, including veteran actors and rising stars, add layers to the narrative. They provide not just comic relief but also poignant moments that reflect on different aspects of love and relationships. This ensemble approach enriches the movie, creating a world that feels lived-in and authentic.

By focusing on strong character development, genuine chemistry, and a plot that balances tradition with innovation, “Anyone But You” offers a fresh take on the romantic comedy genre. It reminds us why we fell in love with these stories in the first place while proving that there’s still room for growth and surprises in the world of rom-coms.

Movie Overview

Plot Synopsis

“Anyone But You” follows the classic rom-com blueprint with a modern twist. The story centers around Bea (Sydney Sweeney) and Ben (Glen Powell), two young professionals who, after a promising first date, find themselves at odds. Through a series of unexpected events, they end up forced to pretend they’re a couple at a destination wedding in Australia. As they navigate the charade, old sparks reignite, leading to a rollercoaster of emotions and hilarious situations.

The film’s premise isn’t groundbreaking, drawing comparisons to classics like “Wedding Crashers” and “How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days.” However, it’s the execution and contemporary sensibilities that set it apart. The screenplay, penned by Ilana Wolpert and Will Gluck, infuses fresh dialogue and scenarios that resonate with today’s audiences while maintaining the timeless appeal of the genre.

Cast and Characters

Sydney Sweeney and Glen Powell lead the charge with their portrayals of Bea and Ben. Sweeney, known for her dramatic roles in “Euphoria” and “The White Lotus,” showcases her versatility by effortlessly stepping into comedic territory. Her Bea is smart, ambitious, and delightfully flawed, bringing depth to what could have been a one-dimensional character.

Powell, fresh off his success in “Top Gun: Maverick,” proves he’s more than just a handsome face. His Ben is charming yet vulnerable, striking a balance between cocky and endearing. The supporting cast, including veterans like Bryan Brown and Dermot Mulroney, adds layers to the narrative, each bringing their unique flair to the Australian wedding setting.

What Works in “Anyone But You”

Chemistry Between Leads

The undeniable chemistry between Sweeney and Powell is the film’s strongest asset. Their on-screen rapport crackles with tension, humor, and genuine warmth. Whether they’re trading barbs or sharing tender moments, the leads’ interactions feel authentic and engaging. This chemistry elevates even the most clichéd scenes, making them feel fresh and exciting.

Director Will Gluck, known for modern rom-com hits like “Easy A” and “Friends with Benefits,” expertly navigates the push-and-pull dynamic between the protagonists. He allows moments of vulnerability to shine through the comedy, creating a balanced emotional journey that keeps viewers invested in Bea and Ben’s relationship.

Humor and Comedic Timing

“Anyone But You” doesn’t shy away from broad comedy, but it also delivers in subtle, character-driven humor. The film strikes a delicate balance between slapstick moments (a memorable scene involving a spider comes to mind) and witty banter. The dialogue is sharp, with pop culture references that land without feeling forced or dated.

Supporting characters, particularly Bea’s sister Halle (Hadley Robinson) and Ben’s best friend Claudia (Alexandra Shipp), contribute significantly to the humor. Their subplots and interactions with the main characters add layers of comedy and heart to the overall narrative.

Scenic Locations

Set against the backdrop of Sydney, Australia, the film is a visual feast. The cinematography by Danny Ruhlmann captures the city’s iconic landmarks and breathtaking coastal views, providing a stunning canvas for the romantic storyline. From sun-drenched beaches to elegant wedding venues, the locations serve as more than just a pretty backdrop – they become an integral part of the story’s atmosphere.

The Australian setting also allows for unique comedic situations and cultural misunderstandings, adding another layer of humor and novelty to the familiar rom-com formula.

Potential Drawbacks

Familiar Tropes

While “Anyone But You” brings freshness to the genre, it doesn’t completely escape some well-worn rom-com tropes. The fake relationship premise, misunderstandings that could be solved with a simple conversation, and the race-against-time climax are all present. For some viewers, these familiar elements might feel predictable.

However, the film’s self-awareness and the charisma of its leads often help to subvert expectations, even when treading familiar ground. The screenplay acknowledges these tropes, sometimes playfully poking fun at rom-com conventions.

Pacing Issues

At times, the film struggles with pacing, particularly in the second act. As Bea and Ben’s charade becomes more complicated, some subplots feel unnecessarily drawn out. A tighter edit could have enhanced the overall flow of the story, maintaining the momentum established in the film’s strong opening.

Comparisons to Classic Rom-Coms

Nostalgic Elements

“Anyone But You” pays homage to the golden age of romantic comedies while carving its own identity. Echoes of classics like “When Harry Met Sally” and “10 Things I Hate About You” are evident in the film’s structure and character dynamics. The movie successfully taps into the nostalgia for ’90s and early 2000s rom-coms, offering a comforting familiarity for fans of the genre.

Modern Twists

Where the film truly shines is in its modern sensibilities. The characters feel contemporary in their outlook, career aspirations, and relationship expectations. Topics like consent, gender roles, and personal growth are woven organically into the narrative, reflecting current social values without feeling preachy.

The use of social media and technology in the plot is also handled well, integrated in a way that feels natural to the characters’ world rather than forced or gimmicky.

Final Verdict

Who Will Enjoy This Film

“Anyone But You” is tailor-made for rom-com enthusiasts who’ve been yearning for a return to form for the genre. It’s also likely to appeal to a younger audience who may be experiencing this type of big-screen romantic comedy for the first time. The film’s blend of classic tropes and modern sensibilities makes it accessible to a wide range of viewers.

Fans of Sydney Sweeney and Glen Powell will particularly enjoy seeing these rising stars in new, lighthearted roles that showcase their range and charm.

Rating and Recommendation

“Anyone But You” earns a solid 7.5/10. While it may not reinvent the wheel, it succeeds in delivering a thoroughly entertaining, laugh-out-loud funny, and genuinely romantic experience. The film reminds us why we fell in love with romantic comedies in the first place while proving that the genre still has plenty of life left in it.

For those seeking a feel-good movie night, “Anyone But You” is a strong contender. It offers escapism, humor, and heart in equal measure, making it a worthy addition to the rom-com canon. Whether you’re a die-hard fan of the genre or a skeptic looking for a pleasant surprise, this film is worth your time. It may just restore your faith in the power of a well-crafted romantic comedy to uplift, entertain, and remind us of the enduring appeal of love stories on the big screen.