As the 2010s saw a decrease in Hollywood mid-budget films, the romantic comedy genre seemed to be losing its charm. However, the 2018 summer sensation "Set it Up" directed by Claire Scanlon and penned by Katie Silberman, hinted at the genre's revival. Now, five years later, despite the still uncertain future of rom-coms, "Anyone But You," with Glen Powell in the lead, shows promising signs of breathing new life into the genre. Directed by Will Gluck and co-written by Ilana Wolpert, the film showcases the much-needed charm, humor, beautiful romance and star chemistry that recent underwhelming releases have lacked.
The storyline, loosely inspired by Shakespeare's "Much Ado About Nothing," sees Powell as Ben, a finance guy concealing his internal turmoil with an indifferent demeanor. He encounters Bea (Sydney Sweeney), a law student questioning her career choices when their paths crosses and their connection sets off sparks.
After a memorable day and night together where confessions are shared and cheese sandwiches are enjoyed, a mix-up leads to a premature heartbreak, and it seems like their love story is over before it begins. However, the presence of a mutual connection through Pete's sister Claudia (Alexandra Shipp) dating Bea's sister Halle (Hadley Robinson) later brings them together again. Comically enough, despite their tumultuous past, they find themselves roped into a plot to maintain peace at the sisters' destination wedding.
Gluck, known for his contemporary take on classic stories as seen in "Easy A," does not disappoint with "Anyone But You." He presents two protagonists - Ben, who's determined to safeguard his feelings and Bea, who is fearful of taking bold steps towards her dreams.
The lead actors deliver beautifully. Powell carries himself with the charismatic rough-and-tumble appeal of a younger Kurt Russell, while Sweeney's melancholic silence resonates with an echo of Melanie Griffith's performance in "Working Girl."
The film masterfully employs visual creativity that defies conventional R-rated comedy expectations. There's a fine balance between humor and seduction, which is skillfully portrayed through a series of comedic and passionate scenes. From Ben cooking grilled cheese for Bea to a climactic confession of love, the film presents familiar romantic tropes in fresh and compelling ways.
In Gluck's "Anyone But You," you'll find a genuine reflection of the struggles of accepting true love in all its imperfections. Perhaps, it's films like these that still keep the dying flame of romantic comedies alive, reminding us that the journey of love is never entirely written.
