Reviving Shakespearean Rom-Coms: The Ingenious Twist of Anyone But You

The Shakespearean Rom-Com Revival

Anyone But You brings a fresh and innovative twist to the classic rom-com trope, reviving a convention from the late '90s and early ‘00s with a clever new perspective. The movie, starring Sydney Sweeney and Glen Powell as Bea and Ben, introduces a modern take on a Shakespearean rom-com, offering a delightful blend of romance, comedy, and drama.

Sydney Sweeney as Bea Looking Shocked in Anyone But You

Bea, a law student, and Ben, a stockbroker, meet by chance and share a magical night, only to be entangled in a mutual misunderstanding that leaves them bitter and regretful the next day. The unexpected turn of events sets the stage for a series of captivating encounters, as the mismatched duo find themselves drawn together in a charming, chaotic romantic comedy that pays homage to the best offerings of the ‘90s, but with a unique twist.

Anyone But You Glen Powell's Ben and Sydney Sweeney's Bea about to kiss

The R-Rated Shakespeare Riff

In a bold departure from the traditional Shakespeare adaptations, Anyone But You takes the bard’s work to a new level with an R-rated twist. Similar to '10 Things I Hate About You', 'She’s The Man', and 'Get Over It', this contemporary rom-com brings Shakespeare’s essence to life in a modern setting, but with a daring edge.

The movie earns its R-rating with its raw portrayal of adult themes, featuring swearing, sex, nudity, and some drug use. This bold move sets Anyone But You apart from its teen-centric counterparts, infusing the classic Shakespearean elements with a more mature and innovative approach. The R-rating becomes an essential element in differentiating the movie from earlier Shakespeare rom-coms, adding depth and authenticity to its ‘90s revival.

The Adult Rom-Com Formula

While earlier Shakespeare rom-coms thrived in high school settings, Anyone But You takes the story into adulthood, offering a fresh perspective on the well-worn ‘90s formula. The movie’s more grown-up rom-com story proves that the same Shakespearean formula can be applied to adult characters with just as much success, breathing new life into the genre.

By cleverly limiting direct references to the original play and embracing a more adult narrative, Anyone But You keeps the Shakespearean essence alive while venturing into uncharted territory. The movie's creative debt to Shakespeare is skillfully acknowledged, while the plot itself maintains the originality of the rom-com formula, establishing it as a standout in the genre.