For all the hype about writer/director Kelly Fremon Craig being the new, edgier John Hughes, I’m not seeing it. Her dialogue isn’t especially smart and the plot is downright derivative: A misfit, awkward high school girl from a dysfunctional family with best friend issues, who ignores the sweet nerdy boy who has a crush on her for the unattainable cutie. The only interesting performance comes from the geeky suitor, played by Asian charmer Hayden Szeto. To make matters worse, the lead character (played by Hailee Steinfeld) isn’t particularly clever, interesting or sympathetic…just neurotic and borderline obnoxious. Her relationship with a teacher (Woody Harrelson) is somewhat inappropriate and not especially meaningful. While it moves with energy and the performances are decent, there’s nothing new or special to make this film memorable.
(2.5 / 5)