Never Been Kissed (1999)
Dir. Raja Gosnell
Cast: Drew Barrymore, Michael Vartan, David Arquette, Molly Shannon, Jon C. Reilly
This an old film which I could probably quote line for line in places. For some unknown reason it was shown on Film4 yesterday evening so I decided it was time for an ICEHISE review. (I know, that didn't work. I won't do it again.)
So, here's the deal. Josie is a newspaper copy editor who falls into her her first ever undercover report. However, the location is a high school and this turfs up all sorts of uncomfortable memories for 'geek to the core' Josie 'Grosie'. She tries and fails miserably to fit in with the cool kids until her brother (also posing as a high school student) enrols and helps her to transition from geek to chic. Well, the school dream boy asks her to the prom - what more could a girl want. Along the way, Josie becomes a little more than friendly with her gorgeous English teacher, Sam Coulson.
This is a chick-flick through and through. Therefore, it is corny, unintimidating and fairly easy to watch while doing something else. However, it does have some corking one liners and a delicious fairytale ending. Barrymore is very endearing as a super geek (I can't help but think that she brings a hint of personal experience to the role) as is Arquette as her well meaning brother. Vartan is a complete hearthrob and totally convinces me as a down to earth and passionate teacher. He delivers his cheddar-laden lines with style and I love him for it!
I feel like a fraud talking about cinematography in a film like this so I'll just say that it has a well chose soundtrack, some great costume and a great final scene shot at a baseball game. It's harmless fun that you must, MUST take with a pinch of salt.
My rating *** 3/5 stars
Recommendation: Watch, laugh, maybe shed a tiny tear. Don't think too hard!
