Movie Review: Anyone but You Directed by Will Gluck

 

Introduction

Romantic comedies often provide the perfect blend of humor, love, and a bit of drama, and Anyone but You, directed by Will Gluck, is a prime example of this delightful mix. Now streaming on Netflix, this film captures the essence of the rom-com genre with its engaging storyline and charming characters. However, while the movie largely succeeds in delivering a classic romantic comedy experience, there's one aspect that left me feeling somewhat uneasy, which I'll discuss later.

Plot Summary

Anyone but You centers on the lives of Ben and Beatrice, two people who experience love at first sight. Their instant connection sets the stage for a love story filled with humor, misunderstandings, and heartfelt moments. Despite their mutual feelings, a series of personal insecurities and miscommunications keep them from confessing their love for each other.

As the years pass, their lives are marked by frequent squabbles and missed opportunities, highlighting the deep connection they share even amid the chaos. It isn't until Ben finally musters the courage to express his feelings, and Beatrice realizes what she truly wants, that they break free from the misunderstandings that have kept them apart. Their journey to this realization is both humorous and touching, making for a satisfying conclusion that rom-com fans will appreciate.

Rom-Com Elements

Anyone but You excels in capturing the key elements that make romantic comedies so beloved. Here are some highlights:

  1. Instant Chemistry: Ben and Beatrice's immediate connection is palpable and sets a strong foundation for the story. Their chemistry keeps the audience engaged from the start.

  2. Humorous Dialogue: The film is filled with witty banter and funny situations, providing plenty of laughs and keeping the tone light and entertaining.

  3. Emotional Depth: Beyond the humor, the movie explores deeper emotions, with characters grappling with self-doubt and misunderstandings that make them relatable and endearing.

  4. Heartwarming Conclusion: The resolution of Ben and Beatrice's story, where they finally confess their love, is incredibly satisfying and reinforces the classic rom-com message that true love prevails.

Critique: Pushing the Idea of Gay/Lesbian Marriage

While I thoroughly enjoyed Anyone but You and its fitting portrayal of a romantic comedy, there's one aspect that I found problematic: the film's attempt to push and normalize the idea of gay and lesbian marriage. 

Conclusion

Anyone but You is a delightful romantic comedy that successfully blends humor, emotion, and a timeless love story. Directed by Will Gluck, it captures the essence of what makes the genre so beloved. Ben and Beatrice's journey from instant connection to true love is a testament to the power of perseverance and understanding one's own heart.

Despite my reservations about the film's push to normalize gay and lesbian marriage, Anyone but You remains a charming and entertaining watch. It's perfect for anyone who believes in the magic of love and enjoys a well-crafted rom-com. The movie's strengths lie in its captivating characters, witty dialogue, and emotional depth, making it a must-watch for rom-com enthusiasts.

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