Romantic comedies have long been a favorite genre for audiences seeking laughter, love, and a bit of escapism. However, in recent years, viewers have expressed a desire for more depth and originality in rom-coms, craving stories that explore relationships in fresh, relatable ways. Anyone But You, directed by Will Gluck, arrives just in time to meet this demand, adding a twist to the classic enemies-to-lovers trope and infusing it with humor, charm, and heartfelt moments. Starring Sydney Sweeney and Glen Powell, the film offers a delightful, modern take on romance that invites audiences to laugh, feel, and think.
Plot Overview: A Modern Spin on a Classic Tale
In Anyone But You, the story follows Bea and Ben, two people with an undeniable spark—but an equally undeniable history of rivalry and dislike. The two meet during their college years and, due to their contrasting personalities and interests, quickly become antagonists. Fast-forward to their adulthood, where they encounter each other unexpectedly at a friend’s wedding in Australia. Forced to spend time together, they realize that their animosity is a cover for deep-seated attraction and chemistry.
While the film centers around the familiar rom-com trope of enemies becoming lovers, it’s the setting and circumstances that refresh the narrative. Set against the vibrant, sun-soaked beaches of Australia, Bea and Ben’s relationship is as turbulent as the waves, filled with humorous bickering, mishaps, and moments that reveal their vulnerability. The playful tension between them gradually transforms into affection, reminding viewers of the messy, unpredictable nature of love.
Lead Performances: Sydney Sweeney and Glen Powell Shine
One of the film’s major strengths is the exceptional chemistry between its leads. Sydney Sweeney, known for her roles in Euphoria and The White Lotus, brings depth and humor to Bea’s character. Her portrayal captures the character’s mix of strength, vulnerability, and wit. Sweeney’s comedic timing, along with her expressive emotional range, make Bea both relatable and memorable. Glen Powell, known for his work in Top Gun: Maverick and Set It Up, complements her perfectly with his charm and sarcasm. Powell’s character, Ben, is a blend of arrogance and warmth, making his transformation from antagonist to romantic lead both believable and compelling.
The electric dynamic between Sweeney and Powell is evident in every scene they share. Their banter and moments of emotional honesty create a believable and engaging love story that feels fresh within the rom-com genre. The actors’ performances contribute significantly to making Anyone But You not only entertaining but also impactful.
Cinematography and Direction: Capturing Beauty and Humor
Will Gluck’s direction shines throughout Anyone But You, combining beautiful cinematography with a lighthearted yet grounded tone. The picturesque Australian landscape enhances the film’s aesthetic appeal, giving it a unique visual identity among romantic comedies. Wide shots of the coastline and intimate scenes under the sunset set the stage for Bea and Ben’s evolving relationship, allowing the natural beauty of the environment to parallel the growth in their feelings.
Gluck, known for his work on Easy A and Friends with Benefits, demonstrates his knack for balancing humor with genuine emotion. His use of witty dialogue, along with well-timed physical comedy, creates a balance between laughs and tender moments. By pairing character development with visual storytelling, Gluck crafts a romantic comedy that feels authentic, avoiding overused clichés and instead focusing on moments of connection and self-realization.
Strengths and Weaknesses: A Fun, If Predictable, Rom-Com
Like any film in the rom-com genre, Anyone But You has its share of predictable moments. The storyline follows a somewhat conventional arc, and seasoned rom-com fans may anticipate certain plot points. However, this predictability does not detract from the film’s enjoyment, largely thanks to the cast’s chemistry and the film’s lively direction.
One minor critique might be that some side characters, though entertaining, are underdeveloped. These characters provide humorous interactions and add to the film’s atmosphere but don’t receive the same depth as the protagonists. Despite this, Anyone But You successfully delivers a story filled with humor, charm, and authenticity.
Conclusion
Anyone But You is a refreshing addition to the romantic comedy genre, blending classic elements with modern-day sensibilities. Its engaging leads, beautiful setting, and heartfelt direction create a film that is enjoyable, if occasionally predictable. Sydney Sweeney and Glen Powell’s chemistry elevates the narrative, making Bea and Ben’s journey from rivals to lovers a pleasure to watch. For rom-com enthusiasts and newcomers alike, Anyone But You serves as a reminder that sometimes, love can be found in the most unexpected places—and with the most unexpected people.
This movie doesn’t just entertain; it invites audiences to reflect on the complexities of love and relationships. Whether you’re a fan of the genre or simply in the mood for a lighthearted yet meaningful story, Anyone But You is a film worth watching.
Click here to know more.
