In the ever-evolving landscape of romantic comedies, Anyone But You emerges as a refreshing take on love, misunderstandings, and the serendipity of second chances. Released in December 2023, this film not only captivated audiences with its witty dialogue and charismatic leads but also with a soundtrack that resonates deeply with the themes of the story. Central to this musical journey is Natasha Bedingfield’s 2004 hit “Unwritten,” a song that encapsulates the essence of the film’s narrative.
The Film: A Modern Adaptation of Classic Romance
Directed by Will Gluck and co-written with Ilana Wolpert, Anyone But You draws inspiration from Shakespeare’s Much Ado About Nothing. The story revolves around Bea (Sydney Sweeney), a law student, and Ben (Glen Powell), a finance professional. Their initial encounter at a coffee shop leads to an unexpected connection, only to be marred by misunderstandings. Reunited at a wedding in Australia, they navigate the complexities of fake relationships, personal growth, and rediscovered love.
Character Analysis
Bea: A law student grappling with familial expectations and personal aspirations. Bea’s journey is one of self-discovery, as she learns to prioritize her desires over societal pressures. Her initial reluctance to embrace vulnerability gradually transforms into a willingness to confront her feelings and take risks.
Ben: A finance professional who uses humor and sarcasm as defense mechanisms. Ben’s character arc involves breaking down emotional barriers and confronting his fears of inadequacy. His evolution is marked by moments of introspection and genuine connection.
Scene Breakdowns
1. The Coffee Shop Encounter: Bea’s desperate need for a restroom leads to a chance meeting with Ben, who pretends she’s his wife to help her out. This quirky beginning sets the tone for their dynamic, blending humor with immediate chemistry.
2. The Grilled Cheese Night: Their impromptu date at Ben’s apartment, featuring grilled cheese sandwiches, showcases their compatibility and the ease of their connection. This scene is pivotal in establishing the depth of their bond.
3. The Wedding in Australia: Reunited at a wedding, Bea and Ben agree to pretend to be a couple. The scenic Australian backdrop serves as a metaphor for new beginnings and the unpredictability of love.
4. The Titanic Reenactment: A playful nod to the iconic film, this scene underscores their growing intimacy and the blurring lines between pretense and reality.
5. The Rescue and Revelation: After a mishap during the Titanic reenactment, Ben and Bea find themselves stranded, leading to heartfelt confessions and a turning point in their relationship.
The Soundtrack: A Melodic Reflection of Love
Music plays a pivotal role in Anyone But You, with each song carefully selected to mirror the emotional landscape of the characters. Here’s a curated list of the top 10 songs that define the film’s musical identity:
- “Unwritten” by Natasha Bedingfield: Serving as Ben’s “serenity song,” this track underscores key moments in the film, symbolizing hope and new beginnings.
- “The Spins” by Mac Miller: Captures the whirlwind of emotions following Bea and Ben’s initial fallout, transitioning the narrative to their unexpected reunion.
- “Photo ID” by Remi Wolf & Dominic Fike: Playing during the flight to Australia, this song encapsulates the awkward yet humorous tension between the protagonists.
- “Sick” by Dominic Fike: Reflects the tumultuous nature of Bea and Ben’s relationship, delving into the paradox of love and frustration.
- “Dummy” by Portugal. The Man: Accompanies the rehearsal dinner scene, highlighting the underlying attraction between the leads amidst the festive backdrop.
- “Got Me Started” by Troye Sivan: As Bea and Ben dance aboard the ship, this energetic track mirrors their growing chemistry and the blurring lines between pretense and reality.
- “All I Really Wanna Do” by Devon Gilfillian: This soulful tune underscores a pivotal moment where the characters confront their true feelings, leading to a heartfelt confession.
- “Anyone But You” by Still Woozy: The film’s title track encapsulates the essence of the story—a realization that love often finds us in the most unexpected places.
- “Loving You” by Wet Leg: Playing during a montage of introspection, this song delves into the vulnerability and longing experienced by the characters.
- “Connecting Dots” by Kate Bollinger: As the narrative reaches its climax, this track symbolizes the culmination of Bea and Ben’s journey, connecting the emotional dots that lead to love.
Visual Storytelling and Cinematic Techniques
Director Will Gluck employs subtle cinematic techniques to enhance the storytelling. For instance, the use of camera angles and framing evolves alongside Bea and Ben’s relationship. Initially, scenes are shot with physical barriers between the characters, symbolizing emotional distance. As their bond deepens, the camera work becomes more intimate, reflecting their growing closeness.
Conclusion
Anyone But You masterfully intertwines a compelling narrative with a thoughtfully curated soundtrack, offering audiences a cinematic experience that is both entertaining and emotionally resonant. The film’s success lies not only in its engaging storyline and charismatic leads but also in its ability to harness the power of music to amplify the intricacies of love. As “Unwritten” plays during the closing credits, viewers are reminded of the endless possibilities that love holds, waiting to be penned in the unwritten chapters of life.