Anyone But You –
A Modern Twist on Enemies to Lovers
Introduction:
Why “Anyone But You” Is 2025’s Rom-Com Everyone’s Talking About
In a world increasingly driven by superhero franchises and high-octane thrillers, romantic comedies like Anyone But You offer viewers a refreshing break. Released in late 2023 and gaining massive popularity through early 2025, this movie has cemented itself as a trending rom-com in Hollywood. With the magnetic pairing of Sydney Sweeney and Glen Powell, witty dialogue, and modern-day chemistry, Anyone But You is proof that the classic “enemies-to-lovers” formula still works when done right.
From TikTok clips to Instagram reels and endless tweets, the movie’s viral moments have created a buzz that can’t be ignored. Whether you’re a fan of romantic banter, destination weddings, or just want something lighthearted, this review will take you through every reason why Anyone But You is worth the hype.
Plot Summary of “Anyone But You”
The story centers around Bea (Sydney Sweeney) and Ben (Glen Powell), two charismatic individuals who meet under serendipitous circumstances in a coffee shop. What starts as a flirty, promising encounter quickly turns into a disaster due to miscommunication and bruised egos. The two walk away assuming they’ll never see each other again.
Fast forward to a lavish wedding in Australia, where Bea and Ben unexpectedly reunite. Unfortunately, they’re not just attending — they’re in the wedding party. Surrounded by mutual friends and family, the tension between them quickly resurfaces. However, in true rom-com fashion, they agree to fake a romantic relationship to please those around them and avoid awkward questions.
What unfolds next is a delightful combination of tropical escapades, comedic situations, unresolved tension, and genuine emotional depth. From beach mishaps to formal dinners, every scene pushes Bea and Ben closer to realizing that maybe, just maybe, they aren’t as incompatible as they thought.
Cast and Performances:
Chemistry That Sizzles
Sydney Sweeney: best known for her dramatic roles in Euphoria and The White Lotus, brings surprising warmth and humor to Bea. She balances vulnerability with sarcasm, crafting a character that’s relatable and strong-willed. Her comedic timing is impeccable, and her physical humor shines in every beach and boat scene.
Glen Powell: fresh from his breakout roles in Top Gun: Maverick and Set It Up, matches Sweeney’s energy perfectly. Ben is charming, a bit stubborn, and emotionally guarded — all the makings of a great rom-com hero. Powell’s ability to flip between cocky and heartfelt makes his performance feel grounded.
Together, the duo has undeniable on-screen chemistry. Their banter is fast-paced, reminiscent of classic screwball comedies, but updated with modern sensibilities. Their physical interactions — whether it’s awkward poolside hugs or chaotic boat rides — create some of the movie’s best laugh-out-loud moments.
Cinematic Aesthetics:
Sunsets, Beaches, and Wedding Glam
Set against the stunning backdrop of Australia, the film uses its location to elevate the romance. From dreamy cliffside views to luxurious wedding venues, the visual elements of Anyone But You are nothing short of picturesque. Each frame feels like it belongs on a travel blog or an Instagram post — which is likely one reason why the film went viral.
The costume design adds to the glamour. Sweeney rocks stylish sundresses and beach-ready outfits, while Powell looks effortlessly dashing in linen suits and casual wear. The film knows it’s aesthetic candy and leans into that appeal without feeling superficial.
Script and Dialogue: Sharp, Funny, and Emotionally Intelligent
Written by Ilana Wolpert and directed by Will Gluck, the script shines because it’s rooted in relatable emotional beats. While there’s plenty of rom-com humor — awkward encounters, fake dating, jealousy-induced dance-offs — it also isn’t afraid to touch on emotional vulnerability.
Bea and Ben’s arguments never feel forced. Instead, they reveal how two people, both guarded and a little broken, come to understand each other. The movie explores themes like emotional maturity, forgiveness, and fear of commitment — all without losing its humor or pace.
Some standout lines include:
- “I’d rather fake love with you than feel nothing with anyone else.”
- “Sometimes the best kind of chaos is the one you didn’t plan for.”
These lines have become quotable favorites on social media, driving more buzz and increasing search engine visibility for fans and bloggers alike.
Read more The Idea of You
Why “Anyone But You” Works in 2025
Romantic comedies often get labeled as predictable or formulaic, but Anyone But You proves that execution is everything. Its relevance in 2025 stems from a few key factors:
- Relatable Emotions: The movie speaks to young adults navigating love, independence, and emotional baggage.
- Trending Stars: Sweeney and Powell are dominating the entertainment conversation, especially on platforms like TikTok and Reddit.
- Reels & Clips: Certain scenes — like the beach rescue and impromptu karaoke — are perfect for short-form video, helping the movie trend organically.
- Romantic Fantasy: A fake relationship in a tropical setting? It’s a dream scenario for escapist entertainment.
Criticism:
What Could Have Been Better
No movie is perfect, and Anyone But You has its flaws. At times, the pacing can feel rushed — especially in the third act where the transition from fake dating to real love happens quickly. Some secondary characters are underdeveloped, existing only to push Bea and Ben together.
Additionally, the humor might feel a bit too millennial or Gen Z-centric for some older audiences. The reliance on pop culture references and slang may not age well in the long run.
Despite these minor drawbacks, the film’s charm and energy more than make up for its shortcomings.
Audience Reactions and Box Office Performance
Fans have responded overwhelmingly positively to the movie. TikTok edits of Bea and Ben have racked up millions of views. Twitter threads analyze their body language, and Reddit communities dissect every scene.
At the box office, Anyone But You performed modestly during its initial release but saw a huge boost thanks to streaming platforms. In early 2025, it re-entered Top 10 lists on both Netflix and Amazon Prime. It’s now considered one of the most watched romantic comedies in 2025.
Final Verdict: A Must-Watch for Rom-Com Lovers
Anyone But You delivers exactly what it promises: humor, romance, and that heart-fluttering feeling of watching two people realize they’re meant to be. It doesn’t reinvent the genre, but it doesn’t have to. With strong performances, viral-worthy moments, and stunning visuals, it earns its place among 2025’s best romantic comedies.
If you’re looking for a romantic comedy to watch this weekend, or need a new blog topic to ride the wave of trending searches, Anyone But You is your answer.
