The Half of It (2020) Movie Review: Where to Watch Online
The Half of It (2020) is a coming-of-age drama directed by Alice Wu. This modern retelling of the Cyrano de Bergerac story combines themes of friendship, self-discovery, and unrequited love, set against the backdrop of a small-town high school.
Plot Summary
The film follows Ellie Chu (Leah Lewis), a high school senior who is a shy, academically driven student:
- Ellie’s Life: Ellie is an introverted student who helps her struggling classmates with their assignments in exchange for cash. Her life takes an unexpected turn when she is asked by the school jock, Paul Munsky (Daniel Diemer), to help him write love letters to his crush, Aster Flores (Alexxis Lemire).
- Complicated Feelings: As Ellie assists Paul, she begins to develop feelings for Aster herself. The film explores Ellie’s internal struggle as she grapples with her own emotions while helping someone else win Aster’s affection.
- Personal Growth: Through her interactions with Paul and Aster, Ellie begins to confront her own desires and insecurities. The film delves into themes of identity, love, and self-acceptance, leading to a poignant conclusion.
The Half of It is praised for its heartfelt storytelling, nuanced characters, and its fresh take on classic romantic tropes.
Critical Reception
The Half of It has received acclaim for its thoughtful approach and strong performances:
Strengths:
- Authentic Storytelling: The film is noted for its authentic portrayal of teenage emotions and relationships. It provides a fresh perspective on the coming-of-age genre.
- Performances: The cast, particularly Leah Lewis, Daniel Diemer, and Alexxis Lemire, delivers strong performances that bring depth to their characters.
- Direction and Script: Alice Wu’s direction and script are praised for their sensitivity and insight. The film effectively balances humor and drama, creating a compelling and relatable story.
Weaknesses:
- Pacing: Some critics have noted that the film’s pacing can be slow, with certain scenes feeling prolonged. However, this often contributes to the film’s contemplative nature.
- Familiar Themes: While the film offers a unique take on the classic love triangle, some viewers might find the themes and storylines familiar.
Overall, The Half of It is celebrated for its heartfelt and nuanced exploration of teenage life and relationships. It stands out for its authenticity and fresh perspective on a well-trodden genre.
Themes and Analysis
The Half of It explores several key themes:
- Identity and Self-Acceptance: The film examines Ellie’s journey of self-discovery and her struggle to reconcile her own desires with her actions. It highlights the importance of understanding and accepting oneself.
- Unrequited Love: The film explores the pain and complexity of unrequited love through Ellie’s feelings for Aster. It offers a nuanced view of love and its challenges.
- Friendship and Connection: Ellie’s evolving relationship with Paul highlights the importance of friendship and connection. Their mutual support and understanding are central to the film’s narrative.
- Cultural Identity: The film subtly touches on themes of cultural identity, as Ellie navigates her own experiences as an Asian-American teenager in a predominantly white high school.
Where to Watch The Half of It Online
If you’re interested in watching The Half of It (2020), here are some options:
1. Streaming Services
- Netflix: The Half of It is available for streaming on Netflix. It is a Netflix original film, so it can be watched with a Netflix subscription.
2. Rental/Purchase Services
- Not Available for Rental: As of now, The Half of It is primarily available through Netflix and is not offered for rental or purchase on other platforms.
Conclusion
The Half of It (2020) is a poignant and relatable coming-of-age film directed by Alice Wu. Known for its authentic portrayal of teenage life and its fresh take on romantic tropes, the film offers a heartfelt exploration of identity, love, and friendship.
While it may have a slower pace and familiar themes, The Half of It is celebrated for its strong performances, sensitive storytelling, and unique perspective. Available for streaming on Netflix, it provides an opportunity to enjoy a thoughtfully crafted film that resonates with its audience.
