Review: The Duff

If you're looking for a lighthearted, feel good movie, check out The Duff on Netflix. You can also stream it on Amazon or buy in a variety of formats.

Yes, it's a teen comedy, but don't let that dissaude you. It's entertaining and humorous due to a good cast that makes the most of the tried and true "mean girl" / ugly duckling transformation story.

Directed by Ari Sandel and with the screen play written by Josh A. Cagan from the novel by Kody Keplinger, the movie was released in 2015.

The Cast

Mae Whitman has the title role of Bianca Piper aka The Duff with Robbie Amell as her neighbor and mentor to hotness, Wesley Rush. Bella Thorne is the mean girl Madison Morgan, and Bianca Santos is one of The Duff's hot best friends Casey. The other hot best friend is Skyler Samuels as Jess.

The cast is rounded up with Romany Malco as Principal Buchanan, Nick Eversman as Bianca's crush, Toby; Ken Jeong as the school's newsletter editor/teacher, Mr. Arthur; and Allison Janney as Bianca's motivational-spouting, self-help guru Mom.

The Plot

A high school senior instigates a social pecking order revolution after finding out that she has been labeled the DUFF—Designated Ugly Fat Friend—by the prettier, popular hot girls in the school.

Like I said, a story told many times, but this one is good for a pleasant afternoon's entertainment. The rating is PG-13 for the usual elements that Hollywood wants the world to think is typical, average teen behavior.

Takeaway Truth

If you need something lightweight that will make you smile and maybe forget Russia for a few minutes, try this.