"Never Been Kissed" is a heartwarming romantic comedy that delves into the world of high school, second chances, and the transformative power of love. Released on April 9, 1999, this delightful film was directed by Raja Gosnell.
Synopsis:
Josie Geller, played by the charming Drew Barrymore, is a 25-year-old copy editor at the Chicago Sun-Times, eager to make her mark as a journalist. When she's assigned an undercover role to pose as a high school student and report on contemporary teenage culture, Josie is both excited and terrified.
Her own high school experience was far from ideal, marked by awkwardness and bullying. As she returns to the world of cliques, crushes, and proms, Josie grapples with old traumas and new challenges. Along the way, she forms unexpected friendships, confronts her past, and finds love in the most unexpected places.
Significance, Themes, and Why You Should Watch:
"Never Been Kissed" is a touching exploration of redemption, self-acceptance, and the courage to pursue one's dreams. The film beautifully captures the essence of high school - the good, the bad, and the ugly. It addresses the universal desire to fit in, the scars left by past traumas, and the possibility of rewriting one's story.
Drew Barrymore's endearing performance, coupled with a cast of memorable characters, makes this film a nostalgic trip down memory lane. It's a reminder that it's never too late to heal old wounds and find love.
Where to Stream
United States (US):
There are currently no streaming offers in the US.
- Streaming on: Starz Apple TV Channel, Starz Roku Premium Channel, Starz, DIRECTV, Starz Amazon Channel
- Available to buy on: Apple TV, Amazon Video, Google Play Movies, YouTube, Vudu, Microsoft Store, DIRECTV, AMC on Demand, Spectrum On Demand
- Free: None
Australia (AU):
There are currently no streaming offers in the AU.
- Streaming on: Disney Plus, Foxtel Now
- Available to buy on: Apple TV, Amazon Video, Google Play Movies, YouTube, Fetch TV
- Free: None
United Kingdom (GB):
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- Streaming on: Disney Plus
- Available to buy on: Amazon Video, Apple TV, Google Play Movies, Sky Store, Microsoft Store, YouTube, Rakuten TV
- Free: None
Germany (DE):
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- Streaming on: Disney Plus
- Available to buy on: Apple TV, Amazon Video, Google Play Movies, YouTube, maxdome Store, MagentaTV
- Free: None
Brazil (BR):
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- Streaming on: Disney Plus
- Available to buy on: None
- Free: None
Spain (ES):
There are currently no streaming offers in the ES.
- Streaming on: Disney Plus
- Available to buy on: Apple TV, Rakuten TV, Amazon Video
- Free: None
France (FR):
There are currently no streaming offers in the FR.
- Streaming on: Disney Plus
- Available to buy on: Apple TV, Google Play Movies, Microsoft Store, YouTube, Rakuten TV, Amazon Video, Bbox VOD
- Free: None
Canada (CA):
There are currently no streaming offers in the CA.
- Streaming on: Disney Plus
- Available to buy on: Apple TV, Google Play Movies, Cineplex, Microsoft Store, YouTube, Amazon Video
- Free: None
Production Details:
Directed by Raja Gosnell, "Never Been Kissed" was produced by Sandy Isaac and Nancy Juvonen. The screenplay was crafted by Abby Kohn and Marc Silverstein. The movie was primarily shot in California, capturing the quintessential American high school experience. With a budget of around $25 million, the film was a box office success, grossing over $84 million.
Reception and Awards:
Critical reception: Critics had mixed reviews about the film. While some praised Barrymore's performance and the movie's heartwarming message, others felt it treaded familiar grounds.
Audience reception: The film resonated with audiences, especially those who had experienced the challenges of high school firsthand. Its themes of redemption and self-discovery struck a chord with many. While the movie didn't bag major awards, Drew Barrymore's portrayal of Josie was widely appreciated and remains one of her most memorable roles.
Trivia and Fun Facts:
- Drew Barrymore's character, Josie, is nicknamed "Josie Grossie" in her high school days, a moniker that haunts her throughout the film.
- The movie features a young Jessica Alba in one of her early roles as one of the popular girls at school.
- The scene where Josie throws the ceremonial first pitch at a baseball game was inspired by a real-life event where a journalist did the same.
- The character of Rob, Josie's brother, played by David Arquette, adds a comedic touch as he too goes undercover in the high school, reliving his "glory days."
"Never Been Kissed" remains a beloved film in the romantic comedy genre, offering laughter, tears, and a beautiful message about self-love and second chances.