Anyone But You is a rom-com movie for Valentine’s week, but is it? Well, let us find that out. Two good-looking actors Sydney Sweeney (Bea) and Glen Powell (Ben) are the lead pair.
Furthermore, it has come to our attention that the creators of the film assert that it is loosely inspired by William Shakespeare’s play. That renowned play is “Much Ado About Nothing”. But is it so? Well, you find out.
Synopsis: ‘Anyone But You’ (2023) Movie
In the edgy comedy, Bea (Sydney Sweeney) and Ben (Glen Powell) look like the perfect couple, but after an amazing first date something happens that turns their fiery hot attraction ice cold – until they find themselves unexpectedly thrust together at a destination wedding in Australia. So they do what any two mature adults would do: pretend to be a couple.
Trailer: ‘Anyone But You’ (2023) Movie
Spoiler Free Review: ‘Anyone But You’ (2023) Movie
A peek into its storyline
Well, after an enthralling initial meeting at a coffee shop, Bea (Sydney Sweeney) and Ben (Glen Powell) find that their once-intense passion has mysteriously faded into a chilly miscommunication. Nevertheless, destiny interferes. Reunited at a picturesque Australian wedding, they decide to pretend to be a couple. Yet, amidst the radiant landscape, sparks ignite once more, compelling them to confront their genuine emotions and seize a renewed opportunity for love.
Will Bea and Ben end up together?
To Bea or not to Bea?
You need to find that out, okay? But, we will give you a hint, its story is predictable.
Inspired by William Shakespeare’s “Much Ado About Nothing” play!?
Interestingly, the two primary characters bear the same names as the protagonists in William Shakespeare’s Much Ado About Nothing. Bea’s complete name is Beatrice, as indicated on her online dating profile, while Ben can be interpreted as a shortened form of Benedick. In addition, the lines from the said play are skillfully incorporated into this movie.
"Bait the hook well; this fish will bite." (For example, it was written on the sand, in one of the scenes)
Still, to be completely honest, we do not think this film resembles a Shakespearean play.
So, what is the Unique Selling Point (USP) of this latest Hollywood Rom-Com?
We already hinted that its USPs are the gorgeous Sydney Sweeney (Bea) and the handsome Glen Powell (Ben) in the film. Both of them hog the limelight in this romantic comedy. Other cast members give them adequate support, but somehow the spark was missing between the lead pair. And we do not know why. Even their ‘R’ scene did not help.
The conclusion
We liked the natural scenic beauty and beautiful landmarks of Australia in it. They have been captured well by the cinematographer. We loved the Koala and Sydney Opera House. It is an easy-going film with a feel-good tale. Certainly not very taxing on the brain. And we do not wish to be too harsh in our criticism. We have seen Sydney Sweeney putting in much better performances in the past. However, we feel that despite a few goof-ups and a lack of LOL moments, we think this Rom-Com is worth a view, at least.
Rating: ‘Anyone But You’ (2023) Movie
| FM rating | 3.25/5 |
| FM short comments | Our expectations were quite high for this romantic-comedy film. But it has fallen short. We do not know why, but even the attractive lead pair lack the requisitive on-screen (not talking about the off-screen) chemistry. Even the jokes and comedy scenes failed to make us laugh. Still, it is a complete time pass film for Valentine’s week. |
Poster: ‘Anyone But You’ (2023) Movie
Key Details: Sydney Sweeney’s Rom-Com
| Genre | Comedy, Romance, |
| Original language | English (USA, Australia) |
| Released | December 22, 2023 (USA) January 19, 2024 (India) |
| Age-Restrictions | 18+ (R) or (A) |
| Duration | 1 hour 43 minutes |
| Writers | Ilana Wolpert |
| Director | Will Gluck |
| Cast | Sydney Sweeney (Bea), Glen Powell (Ben), Alexandra Shipp (Claudia), Nat Buchanan (Miranda Clerk), Gata (Pete as GaTa), Hadley Robinson (Halle), Dermot Mulroney (Leo), Rachel Griffiths (Innie), etc. |
| Taglines | This isn’t what it looks like. They only look like the perfect couple. |
Featured Image & Poster of the Anyone But You (2023) Film | Pics. Credit: Sony Pictures.