Best Friends Battle Prom Night Pandemonium

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MOVIE REVIEW
Prom Dates
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Genre: Comedy
Year Released: 2024
Runtime: 1h 30m
Director(s): Kim O. Nguyen
Writer(s): D.J. Mausner
Cast: Julia Lester, Antonia Gentry, Kenny Ridwan, JT Neal, Jordan Buhat, Zión Moreno, Terry Hu, John Michael Higgins, Chelsea Handler
Where To Watch: premieres on Hulu May 3, 2024

RAVING REVIEW: You’ve seen your fair share of teen comedies, but have you seen anything like PROM DATES? The film helps to redefine the high school comedy landscape with its heartfelt exploration of the quintessential teenage milestone—prom night. Directed by Kim O. Nguyen and written by D.J. Mausner, this Hulu original cleverly sidesteps some of the traditional clichés, offering a refreshing narrative that captures the essence of teenage turmoil and triumph with a generous dose of humor. Sure, there are some standards, but the film also seeks to explore beyond the surface level and offers a modernized story.

Centering on the lives of best friends Jess (Antonia Gentry) and Hannah (Julia Lester,) PROM DATES captures the spirit and complexity of modern teenagers with an authentic voice. Gentry and Lester bring these characters to life, embodying their roles with a genuine zest and emotion that transcends the typical idea of a generic teen on screen. Their journey through the chaos of having the perfect prom night, marked by meticulously planned and unexpected twists, forms the core of the film’s narrative.

The film opens with preparations for the big night, setting the stage for the upcoming adventures and revelations. Jess faces the harsh reality of betrayal, while Hannah confronts personal truths about her identity, challenges that are portrayed with sincerity and insight. These pivotal moments lead them on a quest filled with comedic mishaps and poignant encounters, showcasing the film’s ability to balance laughter with deeper emotional themes.

PROM DATES excels with a sharp script, something that has sorely been lacking in the teen comedy genre for a contemporary audience. Nguyen's directorial style is evident in her ability to capture the emotional turmoil of the young protagonists grappling with identity, friendship, and the brink of adulthood. The narrative wraps these themes into a cohesive, entertaining, reflective storyline. Albeit sometimes a little predictable or a bit too stereotypical, see
Kenny Ridwan’s character Greg as the “friend.”

Lester’s performance as Hannah is particularly noteworthy. She tackles her character’s vulnerabilities with a compelling performance, making her journey one of the film’s highlights. Gentry’s portrayal of Jess complements this effectively, adding layers of genuine emotion that enhance the film’s comedic elements. She shows the most promise as a three-dimensional character when focusing on herself.

As PROM DATES progresses, it invites audiences to engage with its characters' familiar yet unique experiences. The film's blend of humor and heartfelt drama, dynamic performances, and insightful direction positions it as a standout in its genre. I was shocked to see a pretty standard “gross-out” scene in the film, which felt a little forced.

PROM DATES ultimately ends up as more than just another entry in the teen comedy genre. It stands out as a heartfelt homage to the trials and triumphs of youth, capturing the magic and mayhem of high school prom night. With a plot that resonates with nostalgia and novelty and a relatable cast, PROM DATES is an essential watch for anyone looking to revisit the excitement and awkwardness of their teenage years. It's a delightful addition to the teen comedy genre, inviting viewers of all ages to experience the unforgettable highs and lows of prom night all over again.

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[photo courtesy of HULU]

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