The 21st century has seen its fair share of subpar young adult movie adaptations. From Twilight, to Percy Jackson and the Olympians, to The Mortal Instruments, book to movie adaptations have disappointed fans of all novels. But To All the Boys I’ve Loved Before, based off the novel by Jenny Han, puts a refreshing end to this trend.
The film follows 16-year-old Lara Jean, a bookish romantic who spends her free time devouring chick-lit and romanticizing what could be. For years now, Lara Jeans has tried to compensate for her disappointing lack of a love life by drafting a new love letter everytime she falls for a boy. It goes to say then that the film takes a turn for the interesting when one day these letters are anonymously mailed out to their recipients, and Lara Jean must deal with a whole line of curious boys with her letters clutched in their hands.
What ensues is a mix of teen-comedy, classic romance, and feel-good family fun. Despite being a timid teenage girl with a decidedly larger romantic complex than most, Lara Jean quickly charms audiences and leaves them rooting for her more than any of the boys who show up at her door.
Featuring an Asian American family as the leading subject of the film, To All the Boys I’ve Loved is also a delightful work showcasing both diversity and love. Plus, it’s got a killer modern soundtrack, which never hurts.
