Anyone But You (2023)

Anyone But You (2023)

A delightful and hilarious comedy from Will Gluck, the director of Friends with Benefits (2011) and Easy A (2010).

It’s a good time thanks to the hilarious duo of Sweeney and Powell. But I was expecting even better! Far from being a bad film, it’s also far from being a masterpiece. Basically, if you don’t like romantic comedies, you won’t necessarily like this one.

In fact, there’s really nothing exceptional here. We’re treated to a rehash of everything we’ve seen before. At no point will the viewer be surprised by the plot, which is predictable from start to finish, featuring characters who are as stereotypical as can be. It’s like one of those famous TV films – the sort of Christmas comedy we try to avoid. As for the humour, it’s sometimes rather flat, but I still had a good laugh at certain moments.

The Australian setting is magnificent and keeps the film from sinking completely! Because I have to admit that not much will remain of this utterly trivial and forgettable little romance. However, I’m not going to slag this feature film off, because behind this film—which is capable of attracting a wide audience—there’s a refreshing breeze, all wrapped up in biting humour that delves into the bittersweet.

So, of course, it’s not all perfect: the plot is too simple and largely clichéd, and the characters seem superficial, all tanned skin and muscles. But (and this is the most important thing in a comedy) you find yourself enjoying it, you don’t really notice the time passing, and you have a laugh, despite everything. In any case, I came out with a little smile on my face.

We tend to overlook the actors’ talent in a comedy. On the contrary, I think it’s important to highlight, once again, Sydney Sweeney’s contribution. This excellent actress has had plenty of rather nice roles, and it’s really great to see her in this comedy, having seen her in more dramatic roles. I didn’t love The Housekeeper (2025) as much as I might have. Otherwise, I wasn’t too keen on Eden (2024), but Sweeney is excellent in it, just as she is in Reality (2023), Immaculate (2024) and Nocturne (2020). My favourites are probably still Americana (2023) and Christy (2025). She’s barely in Under the Silver Lake (2018), so there’s no point watching it just for her. Madame Web (2024) is clearly her worst film, but it’s also definitely one of the worst superhero films ever.

“So, I was being attacked by giant spiders – couldn’t you protect me?” is a line spoken by the actress in this film. This is undoubtedly a nod to the fact that she actually played a small role in Spiders 3D (2013) when she was still very young.

The soundtrack is brilliant. A lovely tribute to Natasha Bedingfield. It’s her music that really grabs us here, as it features at least three times!!!

Among the romantic comedies I’ve really enjoyed is, of course, The Notebook (2004). No, I’m no exception to the rule – I’d say it really is a lovely film. The Vow (2012) is very good, as is the classic Pretty Woman (1990). As for Passengers (2016), it’s got a sci-fi twist, but that doesn’t put anyone off, even those who aren’t big fans of the genre.

To conclude:

The film isn’t brilliant, but the end credits are! Not because the film is over, but because they’re brilliantly put together.

Funny, unpretentious, and best enjoyed like a tangy sweet – without taking it too seriously. The script is clearly theatrical – and for good reason – featuring actors with impeccable physiques against dreamlike, luxurious backdrops. Although the ending comes as no surprise, you can let yourself be swept away by this romantic comedy. Come and enjoy a moment of relaxation and carefree fun! This is pure American fare, even though it’s set in Australia. You can just imagine the budgets involved. We also witness an over-the-top display of emotions and little family schemes, but let’s admit that our two lead actors, Ben (Glen Powell, whom I really enjoyed here) and Bea (Sydney Sweeney), make for a charming pair and deliver an amusing reworking of the famous ‘I love you, me neither’!

There’s a special thank-you in the credits to the City Council of… Sydney! And that’s understandable, given that the plot is a bit of a cliché, but the likeable actors, the beautiful shots of Sydney and the feel-good vibe all come together to form a coherent and enjoyable whole.

3,5