The DUFF
Semi socially introverted Bianca (Mae Whitman) is an intelligent and introspective High School senior tasked with writing the lead article for the school newspaper regarding what Homecoming means to her. Problem is, Bianca doesn’t have a date for the dance and in the social hierarchy she’s more of a supporting member to her more “attractive” friends Casey and Jess (Bianca Santos, Skyler Samuels). Upon this realization, Bianca’s drive for acceptance and social change is driven to the next level. Oh to achieve High School glory, and what about dreamy Toby (Nick Eversman), will Bianca ever find love?
Directed by Ari Sandel, this teen angst tale of woe doesn’t exactly break new ground but does build nicely on the fast talking whip smart dialogue we’ve seen in the totally unrelated Juno (2007); therefor raising the bar of this potential “after school special” and creates something with considerably more sass, heart, and charm. Of course the plot goes exactly where expected, but that’s almost okay because we’re excited to hear what Bianca might say next as her “no filter” verbiage spills forward in a torrent of emotion. Matinee or rental for the teen-ish or more audience, The DUFF is rated PG-13.