To All the Boys I’ve Loved Before (2018)

(Netflix Streaming, December 2019) Much like teenagers, teenage romantic comedies can get attention through how they present themselves, but they ultimately pass or fail based on the strength of their character. So it is that the plot summary of To All the Boys I’ve Loved Before is catchy yet borderline inane (“Teen girl writes letter to crushes never intending to post them; they are posted.”) and yet the film succeeds because it’s got the characterization and finesse of execution that the premise requires. Lana Condor stars as an introvert high-schooler who suddenly finds herself the centre of attention when her crushes are revealed, and one of them suggests playing out the fantasy to make his not-quite-so-ex-girlfriend jealous. From that point on, the becoming-the-mask plot becomes crystal-clear … but the execution doesn’t drag. The characters are portrayed believably, Condor is very likable, the menagerie of supporting characters is decently handled and it ends on a satisfying note. (But don’t take anything for granted—as it’s based on a trilogy of novels, there are two more sequels planned.) The overall atmosphere is contemporary, sweet, cute, and borderline witty at times. While this isn’t my favourite teenage romance of the year (surprisingly enough, Love, Simon is edging out Blockers), it’s competently handled by director Susan Johnson, blends just enough novelty with tradition and does a lot of mileage out of a good lead performance. Nothing more is needed.