It’s rare to find a teen romance film that doesn’t follow the standard formula of high school drama, but this one flips the script in the most delightful way. The Half of It, directed by Alice Wu, stars Leah Lewis, Daniel Diemer, and Alexxis Lemire, and is set in a small, sleepy town in Washington. The genre blends coming-of-age with romance and a dose of heartwarming friendship. The time and place are modern, but the story has a timeless quality, delving into themes of love, identity, and self-discovery with a fresh perspective.
At its core, the story revolves around Ellie Chu, played by Leah Lewis, a brilliant but introverted high school senior who earns extra cash by writing essays for her classmates. One day, Paul Munsky, a sweet but socially awkward jock played by Daniel Diemer, approaches Ellie with an unusual request: he wants her to write a love letter to Aster Flores, the beautiful and popular girl of his dreams, played by Alexxis Lemire. Ellie reluctantly agrees, and what follows is an unexpected journey of friendship, love, and self-realization as Ellie finds herself falling for Aster, the very girl Paul is trying to win over. The film is a modern retelling of Cyrano de Bergerac, but with a unique twist that explores the complexities of love in all its forms.
The standout aspect of The Half of It is the authenticity of its performances, particularly Leah Lewis as Ellie. Leah perfectly captures Ellie’s internal struggle, bringing a quiet strength and vulnerability to the character. She effortlessly portrays Ellie’s loneliness, her longing for connection, and her quiet intelligence. The way she navigates Ellie’s growing feelings for Aster, all while hiding them behind her witty, beautifully crafted letters, is both heartbreaking and captivating. Daniel Diemer’s portrayal of Paul is equally commendable; he brings an earnest charm to the role, making Paul more than just the stereotypical clueless jock. His chemistry with Leah Lewis, not in a romantic sense but as an unlikely pair of friends, forms the emotional core of the movie. Alexxis Lemire’s Aster is graceful and layered, with her performance reflecting the weight of being idealized by everyone around her while she quietly searches for her own identity.
Alice Wu’s direction is another aspect worth noting. She approaches the story with a gentle touch, allowing moments of introspection and silence to speak volumes. The pacing of the film is deliberate, giving each character time to breathe and develop naturally. Unlike many teen dramas that rush through character arcs, this film takes its time, building a sense of realism that grounds the more whimsical aspects of the plot. Wu’s vision for the film is clear: this is not just a love story, but a story about finding oneself in the most unexpected of places. The direction also ensures that the humor, though subtle, lands perfectly, providing much-needed levity amidst the film’s more poignant moments.
Visually, the film’s cinematography by Greta Zozula is stunning. The small-town setting is beautifully captured, with wide shots of empty roads, misty mornings, and serene landscapes that reflect the characters’ internal emotions. The use of light and color plays a significant role in the storytelling, particularly in scenes involving Aster. For instance, during a scene where Ellie watches Aster from afar, the soft golden light surrounding Aster contrasts with Ellie’s colder, muted surroundings, subtly illustrating the emotional distance between them. The visuals, much like the film’s overall tone, are understated yet impactful, enhancing the intimate nature of the story without overwhelming it.
The music in The Half of It is another high point. The score, composed by Anton Sanko, is delicate and melodic, perfectly complementing the film’s emotional beats. The soundtrack includes a mix of indie tracks that feel fresh and contemporary, yet timeless enough to fit the tone of the film. Songs like “Half of Me” by Shannon Lay add to the overall atmosphere of longing and introspection. Music is used sparingly, which makes it all the more effective when it does appear. It amplifies the mood of certain scenes without overpowering the quiet beauty of the film’s more subtle moments.
One of the most refreshing aspects of The Half of It is its exploration of love beyond romantic relationships. While the film centers around a love triangle of sorts, the most profound relationship is the friendship that develops between Ellie and Paul. Their bond, built on mutual understanding and respect, is far from typical in teen movies, where romance often overshadows everything else. Paul’s growing admiration for Ellie, not as a love interest but as a friend and mentor, adds depth to his character and brings a sense of balance to the story. It’s a rare portrayal of platonic love that feels just as important, if not more so, than the romantic subplots.
The film also excels in its handling of complex themes. It isn’t just about love; it’s about identity, communication, and the fear of being truly seen. Ellie’s journey of self-acceptance is central to the plot, and the film delicately touches on issues like cultural isolation and the pressure to conform. Ellie’s relationship with her father, a quiet subplot, adds another layer to her character, highlighting the immigrant experience and the sacrifices made by families in search of better opportunities. These themes are woven seamlessly into the narrative, giving the film a richness that elevates it beyond the typical teen romance.
Overall, The Half of It is a beautifully crafted film that transcends its genre. It is thoughtful, tender, and genuinely moving, with strong performances, sharp direction, and stunning cinematography. The film challenges the conventions of a love story, offering a nuanced exploration of what it means to truly connect with another person, whether through friendship or romance. It’s a film that lingers long after the credits roll, leaving viewers to ponder the nature of love, identity, and the many ways we seek to understand one another. For anyone looking for a smart, emotionally resonant film, this one is an absolute must-watch.
