Sydney Sweeney’s latest rom-com, which carries a mature R-rating, is making a notable return on streaming platforms. Known for her diverse roles in projects like The White Lotus and The Handmaid’s Tale, Sweeney is gaining attention again as her film Anyone But You surges in popularity on Hulu two years after its theatrical release, highlighting the actress’s ongoing influence in the rom-com genre.
A Modern Twist on Shakespeare Inspires Sydney Sweeney’s Film Revival
Anyone But You, starring Sydney Sweeney alongside Glen Powell, currently holds the position of the second most-watched movie on Hulu. The rom-com, which first premiered in theaters in 2023, was directed by Will Gluck and co-written with Ilana Wolpert. Its story draws inspiration from William Shakespeare’s Much Ado About Nothing but places the classic tale within a contemporary setting. The plot unfolds around Bea (Sweeney) and Ben (Powell), whose fiery connection cools dramatically after a promising first date, only for them to be forced into a pretend relationship at a destination wedding in Australia.
“In the edgy comedy Anyone But You, Bea (Sydney Sweeney) and Ben (Glen Powell) look like the perfect couple, but after an amazing first date, something happens that turns their fiery hot attraction ice-cold — until they find themselves unexpectedly thrust together at a destination wedding in Australia. So they do what any two mature adults would do: pretend to be a couple.”
— Official Synopsis
The film’s reception has been mixed among critics, evidenced by a 53% rating on Rotten Tomatoes, yet audiences have embraced it warmly, awarding an 87% user score. Financially, Anyone But You performed respectably, accumulating $220 million globally despite ongoing hesitations about returning to theaters post-pandemic. This positive audience response highlights the connection viewers felt with the film’s leads and its blend of humor and romance.
Reviving the Classic Rom-Com Feel with a Contemporary Edge
The success of Anyone But You also marks the return of the beloved romantic comedy style that dominated film screens in the 1990s and early 2000s. This genre, popularized by stars such as Hugh Grant, Julia Roberts, Ryan Reynolds, Matthew McConaughey, Jennifer Aniston, and Cameron Diaz, had largely faded from prominence throughout the 2010s. The film’s release has been seen as a refreshing nod to that era, balancing nostalgic themes with a modern sensibility.
Sydney Sweeney is amazing, and her chemistry with Glen Powell is off the charts, making for a great, modern-day Rom Com,
— User Review
It was a fun and spicy watch. Do recommend.
— User Review
Fans of classic rom-coms have praised the film for capturing the essential charm of the genre while introducing more edgy humor and contemporary situations. This blend has attracted a diverse audience, ensuring that the film’s presence on streaming platforms continues to grow, meeting the demand for feel-good yet honest romantic stories.
Main Cast Bringing Characters to Life in a Vibrant Setting
The central roles in Anyone But You are brought to life by Sydney Sweeney as Bea and Glen Powell as Ben, whose on-screen chemistry drives the narrative forward. Supporting cast members include Mia Artemis portraying a barista and Nat Buchanan in the role of Miranda Clerk, adding depth to the dynamic setting of the film. The Australian destination wedding backdrop adds a unique atmosphere that enhances the story’s comedic and romantic elements.
The Impact and Future of Sydney Sweeney’s Rom-Com Comeback
Anyone But You’s streaming resurgence solidifies Sydney Sweeney’s ability to attract audiences with diverse roles that navigate complex emotions within popular genres. As the film climbs Hulu’s charts, it demonstrates the appetite for well-crafted romantic comedies with relatable characters and witty storytelling. For Sweeney, this success aligns with her established reputation from major works like The White Lotus, Eden, and the forthcoming boxing biopic Christy.
Given the film’s reception and Sweeney’s rising profile, future projects could further explore the rom-com space or other genres that capitalize on her versatile talent. The film’s fusion of Shakespearean influence and modern adult relationships suggests a promising direction for similar creative reimaginings on streaming services, where audiences continue seeking both nostalgia and fresh perspectives.
