Netflix Review: To All The Boys I’ve Loved Before
This month Netflix released their new film “To All The Boys I’ve Loved Before.” Directed by Susan Johnson, the film is based on the novel written by Jenny Han.
Set in the suburbs of Portland Oregon, the film follows the misadventures of high school junior Lara Jean Covey, played by Lana Condor. Lara Jeans life goes from typical to chaos when her secret love letters to boys that she has crushes on somehow get sent out. She has to do some major damage control, especially when one of the love letters goes to her older sister’s boyfriend. The film tags along with her on the journey of what happens when people learn how you truly feel about them.
With a timeless high school romance theme, “To All The Boys I’ve Loved Before” resonates with realness as well. It explores the world of firsts in a way that isn’t just for kids; it has a youthful charm to it. First boyfriends, dates, and love can be tricky when in high school, even more so when all your crushes find out you like them. The film’s characters take us to high school dances, parties, and infamous school ski trips. All while showing the awkward, the cute and the downright funny starts to relationships.
“To All The Boys I’ve Loved Before” showcases a unique and diverse family in the forefront. The main character’s family is half korean and half caucasian. It also shows a single dad raising three girls because the Covey’s mother passed away. Their family is authentic and not the typical picture perfect family.
The film also shows the importance for youth to be able to talk about issues they struggle with. In the beginning Lara Jean keeps her emotions towards her mother’s death very bottled up. Later on in the film we see Lara and one of the boys she sent a letter to bond over hardships. He has a father who recently left the family, and the two discover that talking out how you feel can help you understand the situation better. This lesson is relevant for all ages.
A cast that shines in their roles and a storyline that keeps you wanting more are just two of the many reasons to watch this film. Be on the lookout for a on-screen cameo from the book’s author, Jenny Han. For a feel good film that will take you back to the years of your “firsts” check out Netflix’s “To All THe Boys I’ve Loved Before.”
—shelby.black@aggiemail.usu.edu
@shelbsterblack