It all begins when Bea (Sydney Sweeney) rushes into a local cafe, hoping to use the toilet. The cafe staff are not helpful, but Bea is rescued by a nearby knight in shining armour, Ben (Glen Powell). Regardless of a few funny and awkward moments between Bea and Ben, there’s no denying their romantic chemistry. The pair decides to get to know each other and spend the evening together cooking cheese toasties and falling asleep in each other’s arms. The following day, however, takes a turn for the worse when a misunderstanding occurs between them, and they walk away from each other.
But as time passes, fate brings the pair back together. When Bea’s sister becomes engaged, she chooses Sydney, Australia, for her destination wedding. However, it’s not long until Bea learns that one of the wedding guests is none other than Ben. Bea and Ben attempt to put the past behind them for the sake of the wedding, but unfortunately, they are both under pressure from others. Bea comes up with the ultimate plan. What if Bea and Ben pretend to be a couple around others to get them to back away? At first, Ben is hesitant but soon sees wisdom in the idea and agrees. Now, Bea and Ben will fake it to make it, but will their past feelings for one another reignite or fizzle into the blue sea?
Anyone but You is a romantic and raunchy comedy directed by Will Gluck, best known for his past films Easy A, Fired Up, and Friends with Benefits. From this resumé, it’s evident that the director is no stranger to comedy and romance films. Instantly, what I found enjoyable was the playful chemistry between the leads, Bea and Ben. Whether they’re romantic or throwing harsh insults at one another, they are easily the film’s most substantial aspect, and for some viewers, yes, I can confirm both actors are glorious and glamorous to look at. As for side performances, a few here also successfully bring in a few chuckles. This includes actors GaTa, Bryan Brown, and Joe Davidson (who looks like Chris Hemsworth).
[mailerlite_form form_id=1]While the leading characters are the most significant praise point of the film, the plot and storyline are fine. The storyline consists of nothing new: a group of wealthy friends and family come together to travel for a wedding. The subplots are also familiar and predictable. Ben has an ex-girlfriend in Sydney who reconsiders breaking up with Ben, and Bea’s pushy parents fly her ex-boyfriend in to attend the wedding unexpectedly. Along with these problems, there are a few issues with the wedding and the planning. While it’s a familiar premise, the leads’ dialogue, reactions, and chemistry keep this film engaging and fresh. The rest of the film feels like it’s just background along for the ride, assisting our leads in shining wonderfully. No matter the film’s familiarity, it’s still fun and highly brainless.
Overall, lovers of all things comedic, romantic, and raunchy will have a blast with this film, mostly thanks to the leads Sydney Sweeney and Glen Powell. There’s no denying that the leads shine wonderfully here, with their beauty and stunning comedic and romantic chemistry. As for the story, there’s nothing overly new in this department, including in the multiple subplots and the core storyline. Even when watching predictable moments unfold, I still had a great time with this film, and it managed to get several laughs from me. Plus, the locations in and around Sydney, Australia, are terrific.
6.2/10
22nd December 2023
Written by Peter Walkden
WALKDEN ENTERTAINMENT
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