Have you ever accidentally ghosted after a great first date? If not, you’re a better communicator than Bea, the charmingly awkward protagonist in ‘Anyone But You,’ a delightful December 2022 rom-com starring Glen Powell and Sydney Sweeney, offering humor and unexpected depth in exploring modern relationships.
This isn’t your typical case of a boy meeting a girl, a boy messes up, girl forgives the boy. This film takes the classic enemies-to-lovers trope and injects it with a hilarious dose of mistaken identity, stunning Australian scenery, and enough emotional depth to leave you wanting more. Sweeney and Powell shine. Sweeney portrays a relatable young woman, while Powell brings a charming vulnerability to his character. Their undeniable chemistry fuels the film’s emotional core and comedic moments.
Sydney Sweeney shines as Bea, a lawyer on the cusp of a predictable future. Enter Glen Powell as Ben, the free-spirited photographer who throws a wrench into her well-laid plans. Their initial spark is undeniable, but a misunderstanding leaves Bea with cold feet and a very awkward exit. Fast forward to a luxurious destination wedding in Australia, and wouldn’t you know it, fate throws them back together. To avoid social pandemonium, they hatch a plan to pretend to be a couple. What follows is a delightful dance of denial, hilarious near-misses, and a growing connection that transcends their initial charade. The script is sharp and witty, with laugh-out-loud moments.
Moreover, Director Will Gluck masterfully walks the line between laugh-out-loud funny and genuinely sweet. The supporting cast, including Dermot Mulroney and Rachel Griffiths as Bea’s overprotective parents, adds another layer of humor to the mix. But it’s Sweeney and Powell who truly steal the show. Their chemistry is undeniable, and they manage to convey both the frustration and tenderness that comes with falling for someone completely unexpected.
But “Anyone But You” is more than just laughs. Beneath the glossy surface lies a genuine exploration of vulnerability and self-discovery. Beneath the witty barbs and outrageous situations, Bea and Ben are both surprisingly vulnerable characters. Their banter reveals their insecurities and fears, making them all the more relatable. There’s a moment under the starry Australian sky where Ben confesses his clumsiness with a self-deprecating joke, and you can’t help but feel a pang of sympathy for the endearingly awkward guy. The film doesn’t shy away from messy emotions, but it ultimately celebrates the power of taking a chance and embracing the unexpected.
“Anyone But You” won’t win awards for originality, but it doesn’t need to. It’s a crowd-pleaser that reminds us that sometimes the best love stories are the ones that surprise you. It is a breath of fresh air in the rom-com genre. It’s a hilarious journey of self-discovery, wrapped in a package of witty dialogue and outrageously funny situations. So, if you’re looking for a movie that will make you laugh until your cheeks hurt and leave you with a warm fuzzy feeling in your chest, then this is the one for you. So, grab your popcorn, settle in for some gorgeous Australian vistas, and get ready to fall in love with Bea, Ben, and the beauty of taking a chance on something (or someone) completely unexpected.
