"To All the Boys I Loved Before." Something avid Netflix users and bookworms or just about anyone with social media and a TV have heard about. The latest Netflix Original is the addition to the teenage rom-com genre. While it may not fit in with Netflix's other rom-com "The Kissing Booth" or even classics like "Mean Girls, Clueless," and "10 Things I Hate About You," it stands alone in its own unique way from the rest of the genre.
Based on the New York Times bestseller, "To All the Boys I Loved Before" revolves around the life of Laura Jean (Lana Condor). Laura Jean, a half-Caucasian half Korean teenager is a hopeless romantic with little to no social life for a high school junior. Life changes when a box of unsent letters are delivered to all the boys she loved. One including her sister's ex-boyfriend and the high school hottie. Things worsen as she attempts to hide her feelings when she "dates" high school hottie Peter Kravinsky (Noah Centineo), while he tries to get back at his ex.
Although it seems as though this storyline has been done before with the innocent girl with no social life and a missing mother figure has her life turn upside down when an unrealistic event occurs, "To All the Boys I Loved Before" is unique. Besides the fact that it is was directed by a female director (Susan Johnson) it manages to depict the restless mind of a high school girl while she struggles to go through life, trying to fit in, and overcoming obstacles.
Laura Jean is just a good role model. Compared to other rom-com leading ladies, Laura Jean is just a simple teen. Her room is a mess, she loves a good binge watch, she doesn't get discouraged when angry bullies bring her down, and at times she is her own worst enemy. It is just realistic about the awkwardness of life. Until it isn't.
Sorry not sorry, but Peter Kravinsky cannot be a real person. Or maybe he could, but it seems a little rare. His classic high school jock charm has been overdone, even though it was a nice change of vulnerability compared to other teen heartthrobs who hide their heart. But he proves to be what all teen girls want, a Peter Kravinsky.
"To All the Boys I Loved" seems to be clearly overhyped in the media, but it is worth the hype. Yes, Noah Centineo is the latest Hollywood Heartbreaker and Lana Condor is the latest female bad**s but they rightfully deserve it. And on a personal note, I really hope there is more to follow.
