Anyone But You (2023) Movie Review

 In the 2010s, Hollywood saw fewer mid-budget films, and romantic comedies were fading away. Then, in 2018, "Set It Up," a summer hit starring Glen Powell and Zoey Deutch, hinted at a revival. Five years later, the fate of rom-coms is still uncertain, but another film featuring Powell, "Anyone But You," directed by Will Gluck and co-written by Ilana Wolpert, offers hope. It brings back the charm, humor, and star chemistry lacking in recent rom-coms.

Loosely inspired by Shakespeare's "Much Ado About Nothing," the best movie follows Ben (Powell), a finance guy with emotional baggage, and Bea (Sydney Sweeney), a law student unsure of her career path. They hit it off immediately, spending a memorable day together. However, a misunderstanding leads to Bea leaving in a panic, only to regret it later. As fate would have it, they cross paths again during various awkward encounters, leading to a fake relationship at a destination wedding.

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"Anyone But You" blends classic storytelling with modern characters. Like "Easy A" did for "The Scarlet Letter," it updates timeless themes. Ben struggles with emotional barriers, while Bea faces societal expectations. The film delves into their challenges in communicating openly despite being surrounded by people.

In this film, starring a talented supporting cast, the spotlight truly belongs to Glen Powell and Sydney Sweeney. Powell's laid-back charm reminds us of Kurt Russell in "Overboard," while Sweeney's sad eyes and gentle voice bring to mind Melanie Griffith in "Working Girl." Their on-screen chemistry is undeniable, highlighted by well-executed medium and close-up shots that capture both the intensity of their characters and the shared sense of melancholy.

Despite the movie's occasional comedic moments, its real strength lies in scenes where Ben and Bea genuinely connect. These moments, where they see each other for who they truly are, become the emotional core of the film. The narrative explores the courage it takes to embrace a relationship where someone recognizes your true self, flaws included.

One notable aspect of the best film is director Will Gluck's creative approach to defy expectations for an R-rated comedy. While there is some nudity, Gluck skillfully directs the camera to focus more on Powell's physique, using it for humorous sight gags and playful jabs. Additionally, Gluck cleverly places Sweeney in amusing physical situations, showcasing her talent for slapstick comedy.

The best movie successfully balances its comedic and romantic elements by subverting traditional tropes. Scenes of Ben cooking grilled cheese for Bea or Bea helping Ben through a moment of fear with a lively song are charming twists on classic romantic moments. Even the customary final declaration of love takes a more emotionally nuanced approach, emphasizing a complex understanding that true love involves wanting the best for someone, whether or not they end up with you.

Anyone But You Movie 

• Rating: 6.5/10

• Director: Will Gluck

• Writer: Ilana Wolpert, Will Gluck