In the bustling world of romantic comedies, director Will Gluck's latest offering, "Anyone But You," starring Glen Powell and Sydney Sweeney, promises to be the frothy, feel-good film audiences have been anticipating. While it may not reach the iconic status of Gluck's earlier hit, "Friends With Benefits," this rom-com still manages to check all the boxes of a sweet and entertaining love story.
A Quirky Beginning: The movie opens in classic New York rom-com fashion, with the two leads, Bea (played by Sydney Sweeney) and Ben (portrayed by Glen Powell), meeting in a cafe. However, their initial encounter takes an awkward turn when Bea urgently needs to use the restroom. Ben comes to her rescue by purchasing a peppermint tea, setting the stage for a series of comical events that follow.
Commitment Phobia Unleashed: As the plot unfolds, Bea and Ben's commitment phobia comes to the forefront after their first date. Their romantic escapades take a turn for the worse as they navigate the challenges of love, with comedic mishaps and witty banter keeping the audience engaged.
A Unique Wedding Setting: The story takes a refreshing twist as the couple finds themselves stuck on an island for a loved one's wedding – a lesbian wedding, to be precise. The film cleverly portrays the ease of the gay couple's relationship compared to the tumultuous dynamics of the cisgender couples involved. The wedding scenes are not only heartwarming but also offer a delightful blend of humor and inclusivity.
Timeless Elements and Nostalgia: Despite the contemporary setting, "Anyone But You" avoids heavy reliance on modern-day references. Social media, a staple in today's romantic comedies, takes a backseat, allowing the narrative to focus on the timeless theme of commitment phobia. The absence of specific time markers creates an atmosphere where the story feels both current and timeless.
Musical Nostalgia: The film cleverly incorporates musical nostalgia, using Natasha Bedingfield's 2004 hit, "Unwritten," to add an old-world charm to the modern rom-com. The song becomes a serenity anthem for Ben, adding depth to his character. Additionally, a playful nod to James Cameron's 1997 classic, "Titanic," injects a dose of pop culture into the storyline.
Oddball Comedy and Whimsical Romance: "Anyone But You" delivers on the promise of oddball physical comedy, featuring unexpected moments such as the inclusion of a koala. The impossibly attractive leads, Sydney Sweeney and Glen Powell, navigate through whimsical and absurd scenarios, creating a romantic narrative that is both pure and entertaining.
While "Anyone But You" may not achieve the same level of pop culture influence as Gluck's earlier work, it undeniably stands as a rom-com of today. In a world obsessed with social media validation, the film reminds us of the essence of true romance – finding someone who can share in life's craziness. As Natasha Bedingfield's lyrics suggest, the movie encourages audiences to embrace the spirit of "Titanic" and "live life with arms wide open." "Anyone But You" may not rewrite the rom-com rulebook, but it certainly offers a delightful and charming escape into the world of modern love.
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