Dude

Dude, the 2018 Netflix Original Comedy-drama, focuses on the last two weeks of high school for four best friends who reside in southern California and are facing the daunting prospects of college and adulthood head-on. The coming-of-age narrative is spun in a manner that reveals - and revels in - their bittersweet transitions and anticipated future, laced with hilarious escapades and moving moments.

The foursome includes Lily, who is brought to life by Lucy Hale hailed from Pretty Little Liars. Hale, no stranger to the tumultuous teen genre, plays a strong and independent young woman who isn't afraid to voice her opinion. Lily is the de facto leader of the group, a kind of alpha-female character, stabilizing the group's dynamics. She must confront her anxieties about leaving her comfort zone, and her fear of losing her friendships, in anticipation of what college life brings. Hale's depiction of Lily is vividly authentic and resonant, capturing the essence of a teenage girl on the threshold of vital life changes.

The British-born actress, Kathryn Prescott, better known for her role in "Finding Carter," stars as Chloe, Lily's best friend. The character Chloe details an emotionally complex range, whether dealing with the preparations for college, contending with her feelings for her surfer boyfriend, Thomas (Austin Butler), or grieving for her mother's passing. Prescott flawlessly portrays these aspects, engaging the audience to empathize with Chloe's emotional circumstances.

Alexandra Shipp, remember her impassioned portrayal as the legendary singer Aaliyah in the Lifetime biopic, she steps into Amelia's shoes, a seemingly fearless young woman who many consider being the most confident among the group. She's constantly battling the repercussions of her wild lifestyle, balancing her party-going ways with moments of genuine introspection about her destiny.

Completing the quartet is nerdy Rebecca, played by Awkwafina, known for her roles in Crazy Rich Asians and Ocean's 8. Rebecca isn't just the comic relief; she adds layers to her character by conveying a realistic blend of jocularity, vulnerability, and intelligence. Her comedic timing supplies the film with a quick-witted humor brand that balances the heavier elements in the plot.

Though Dude executes its fair share of party scenes, drug use, and sexual encounters, the film refuses to get defined by those clichéd components. Instead, it dives deeper into the tumultuous world of impending adulthood, fraught with worry, anticipation, and an inexorable longing for the days gone past. The movie does not shy away from discussing the more serious issues, such as death, grief, and the fear of the unknown.

The four young women's friendship is the film's driving force, acting as a comfort and stabilizing factor as they navigate the unnerving transition from high school to college. Although they often resort to inappropriate coping methods, their determination to maintain their bond in the face of adversity brings out an endearing, emotional component of the film.

Helmed by first-time director Olivia Milch, the movie is refreshing in its approach to the teen-comedy genre, crediting its target audience with intelligence, sensitivity, and a sense of humor that's as sharp as it is funny. Milch paints a modern portrayal of teenage life that's devoid of the usual Hollywood glamor and embellishments, yet charming and raw.

The soundtrack, a mix of hip-hop tunes and indie pop anthems, complements the movie's tone perfectly. It works as a mirror to the young women's experiences, blaring out loud during party scenes, and falling into a hushed lull during the emotional high points.

What sets Dude apart from other movies in the same genre is its unapologetic, honest and down-to-earth depiction of female friendships, as they navigate through high school, romance, loss, and the impending doom of college acceptance letters. It's a unique take on the usual teenage sex-comedy industry and undoubtedly a worthy addition to the coming-of-age film genre. Though it trades in many of the typical hallmarks of young adult films, its earnest characters and unique voice keeps it grounded in a recognizable reality, making it an ultimately relatable and poignant cinematic experience.