Ok,, so the message still stands. There is that element of She’s All That where the “ugly friend” is actually one of the most talented and stunning actresses of our generation. Mae Whitman, who has appeared in The Perks of Being A Wallflower, Scott Pilgrim (obviously) and voiced Tinkerbell in the latest movies, is not what you’d call unattractive. And swooping her under that term because
Let’s not even get started on the fat element.
But based on a book by Kody Keplinger, The DUFF revolves around Bianca, the less than desirable friend of a popular group of mean girls. When her neighbour and long time friend Wesley tells her this is the case, she is applauded that her friends would treat her this way and goes out to redefine herself.
I’m not saying this’ll be good but they have definitely changed their tone after what I assume is outrage from the first trailer. There’s more of a “accept yourself a little bit more” with the commraderre that these films come packaged in. Also there is no romantic plot that our DUFF is aiming for – though it is pretty obvious where it will come from (and we wouldn’t say no to Robbie Amell either.) And while I’m here giving, it a bit more praise than expected seeing as if this term were a thing I'd totally be like...ten DUFFs, there is genuinely funny and tender moments including the “monster voice” which showcases why Whitman needs bigger and better roles than this.
Because we all need a Whitman in our lives.
The DUFF is out April 6th