He's All That

He's All That is an engaging, gender-swapped remake of the classic 1999 teen romcom She's All That. Released in 2021, this Netflix film branded a fresh perspective on the traditional 'ugly duckling made over into a swan' narrative, parading vibrant young talents particularly the star of the movie, the popular influencer-turned-actress Addison Rae, known for her prowess on the social media platform TikTok.

The movie revolves around Padgett Sawyer, portrayed by the charismatic Addison Rae, making an on-screen debut. Padgett is a high school it-girl, a social media influencer who makes her mark by providing makeovers, lifestyle tips, and guides to her massive follower base.

She lives a seemingly charmed life that gets tarnished by a public humiliation, which in the age of social media, translates into a viral catastrophe. Distraught, she loses her popularity and sponsors, making her determined to revamp her reputation and re-establish her empire.

This leads to an unusual bet made in desperation and defiance – she pledges to transform the school's most notorious loner, Cameron Kweller (Tanner Buchanan of 'Cobra Kai' fame), into the Prom King. Cameron is an intimidating, anti-social character who could not be further from the world of social influencers or prom court. He embodies the opposite of everything Padgett represents, living a minimalist lifestyle and having no interest in the high-school popularity contests.

But he is also not immune to the lure of Padgett's vitality, entering into an exciting yet turbulent journey of transformation. It's a test for both of them, sparking an unexpected bond and building a story marked by self-discovery, laughter, some classic high-school showdowns and contemporary messaging around social media, personal identity, and authenticity.

The movie setting enhances its appeal, as the story unfolds in the picturesque backdrop of sunshine-filled Los Angeles. The stunning views, alluring homes, trendy wardrobes, and high school settings imbue the film with an aura of charm and style.

The supporting cast is an ensemble of talents, with Madison Pettis playing the role of Alden, Padgett's 'frenemy.' Rachael Leigh Cook from the original movie, steps into a key adult role, that of Padgett's supportive mom. An appealing throwback to the past, she provides a thoughtful narrative bridge from the parent film to the contemporary one. Another delightful cameo from Kourtney Kardashian as Padgett's ruthless sponsor adds some real-world pop culture flair to the narrative.

Though the film largely follows the blueprint of the classic high school romcom format, it utilizes the 21st-century vantage point, embedding the narrative with contemporary quandaries and social media phenomenon. The layers of the movie unfold as the protagonists navigate their way through teenage angst, fitting in and standing out, and determining their own value beyond followers, likes, and comments. It's a story of finding one's footing in the world, as well as in the high-school hallways.

Under the expert direction of Mark Waters, known for his work on similar themed teen movies such as 'Mean Girls' and 'Freaky Friday,' the plot's potential is explored to the fullest, blending age-old teen drama cliche with new-age media dilemmas. He's All That offers an entertaining mix of comedy, drama, and romance, though sometimes predictable, but always enjoyable, re-invoking the nostalgic charm of its precursor.

Designed to resonate with today's gen-Z audience, the film successfully speaks to both the advantages and downfalls of living life curated for an online audience. It portrays real connection, friendship, and transformation beyond physical appearances, which sometimes can get lost in the insta-perfect world. The endearing characters, coupled with surprising plot swings, keep the audience engaged and invested in the story until the very end.

The chemistry between Rae and Buchanan creates an engaging dynamic that plays out through a captivating storyline incorporating elements of humor, conflict, and unexpected romance. He's All That certainly presents refreshing elements that elevate the teen movie genre beyond its traditional realm, making it a noteworthy addition to your movie list.

For those seeking a heartwarming teen romance that dips into the world of social media and self-discovery, He's All That is indeed all that and maybe a little more. Whether you're a fan of the original or new to the storyline, this modern twist on a beloved classic is worth the watch.