High school tales often flirt with clichés, but this one seeks to subvert them by turning the underdog story into a heartfelt exploration of identity and self-worth. Starring Shannon Purser as Sierra, Noah Centineo as Jamey, Kristine Froseth as Veronica, and RJ Cyler as Dan, this romantic comedy-drama is set in the suburban United States, capturing the ups and downs of teenage life in modern times. Rooted in the themes of self-acceptance and love, the film attempts to bring a fresh perspective to the age-old concept of high school hierarchies and insecurities.
The story revolves around Sierra, an intelligent but socially awkward girl who doesn’t fit into the stereotypical mold of high school popularity. When a mistaken identity sparks an unexpected romance between Sierra and Jamey, a charming football player, things take a turn for the complicated. With the help of Veronica, the queen bee dealing with her own struggles, Sierra begins navigating the tricky waters of friendship, romance, and self-discovery. As their lives intertwine, the narrative takes a deeper look at vulnerability, identity, and the pressures of being a teenager without revealing the twists that lie ahead.
Shannon Purser shines in her portrayal of Sierra, breathing authenticity into a character grappling with self-esteem issues and societal expectations. Known for her breakout role as Barb in Stranger Things, Shannon proves her versatility, delivering a performance that oscillates between humor and poignancy. Her expressive eyes and nuanced body language effectively convey Sierra’s internal struggles, making her a relatable protagonist. Noah Centineo, as the sweet and somewhat oblivious Jamey, charms the audience with his effortless charisma. Kristine Froseth’s transformation from a shallow, mean girl to a layered character grappling with personal issues is equally compelling. Together, the cast brings depth to a narrative that might have otherwise fallen prey to stereotypes.
The direction by Ian Samuels deserves credit for balancing humor with emotional depth, creating a narrative that’s as heartfelt as it is entertaining. However, some pacing issues in the middle act make the film feel slightly uneven. The screenplay, written by Lindsey Beer, is filled with witty dialogue and poignant moments, but certain elements, like the catfishing plotline, raise ethical questions that the film fails to address adequately. While the intention to explore Sierra’s insecurities is clear, the choices she makes sometimes paint her in a problematic light, leaving viewers with mixed feelings about her character arc.
Cinematography by John W. Rutland captures the suburban aesthetic with warmth and vibrancy. The use of soft lighting and pastel hues adds a dreamy quality to the narrative, mirroring the whimsical and often idealized world of teenage romance. The framing of certain key moments, like Sierra’s late-night conversations with Jamey or her emotional exchanges with Veronica, is visually striking, effectively conveying the characters’ emotional states. The high school settings, from the classrooms to the football fields, feel authentic and immersive, enhancing the relatability of the story.
The music, composed by Leland, perfectly complements the film’s tone, with a mix of indie-pop tracks and heartfelt ballads that resonate with the characters’ emotions. Songs like “Sunflower,” performed by Shannon Purser herself, add an intimate touch, serving as a window into Sierra’s thoughts and feelings. The soundtrack is one of the film’s standout elements, elevating emotional scenes and leaving a lasting impression on the audience.
Costume design plays a subtle but significant role in defining the characters. Sierra’s wardrobe, filled with oversized sweaters and practical outfits, reflects her pragmatic personality and lack of concern for high school trends. In contrast, Veronica’s fashionable and meticulously curated looks highlight her social status and perfectionism, masking the insecurities lurking beneath her polished exterior. These visual cues help the audience understand the characters without the need for overt exposition.
Despite its many strengths, the film’s handling of certain themes is uneven. While it attempts to challenge conventional beauty standards and promote self-acceptance, it occasionally undermines its message by perpetuating problematic behaviors. Sierra’s actions, particularly her deception, are portrayed with a degree of sympathy that might not sit well with all viewers. The resolution of these conflicts feels rushed, leaving important conversations about accountability and self-growth unexplored. This oversight detracts from the otherwise impactful message the film seeks to deliver.
The editing by Andrea Bottigliero keeps the narrative flowing smoothly for the most part, though some scenes in the latter half could have been trimmed for better pacing. The transitions between humorous and emotional moments are handled well, maintaining a cohesive tone throughout the film. However, certain subplots, like Dan’s friendship with Sierra, feel underdeveloped, leaving the audience wanting more depth and closure.
This movie is a charming but flawed exploration of self-identity, relationships, and teenage insecurities. While the performances, music, and visuals make it an engaging watch, its occasional missteps in handling sensitive themes prevent it from reaching its full potential. Recommended for fans of coming-of-age stories and light-hearted dramas, it’s a film that offers moments of genuine emotion but leaves room for improvement in its storytelling. Despite its shortcomings, it serves as a reminder that self-worth isn’t defined by societal standards but by one’s ability to embrace imperfections and grow from mistakes.
