G.B.F.

G.B.F. is a 2013 coming-of-age comedy film directed by Darren Stein. The movie revolves around the story of three high school girls, Fawcett, Caprice, and 'Shley, played by Sasha Pieterse, Andrea Bowen, and Xosha Roquemore, respectively, who are popular and desperate to get their hands on a gay best friend (GBF) in order to increase their social status.

The movie begins with the three popular girls discovering that a new student, Tanner Daniels, played by Michael J. Willett, is openly gay. They immediately try to befriend him, hoping he'll be their GBF. However, Tanner is not interested in being someone's accessory, and instead, drives himself to school on his Vespa, listening to music with his headphones on.

As the story progresses, Caprice and 'Shley decide to out Tanner at a party, causing a discord between Tanner and his best friend, Brent Van Camp, played by Paul Iacono, who is also gay but still in the closet. After being outed, Tanner realizes that he has become the most popular student in school, and is suddenly thrust into the spotlight. The girls start competing for his attention, and Tanner quickly becomes known as the school's first G.B.F.

Despite his sudden popularity, Tanner finds it hard to fit in with his new group of friends. He has trouble expressing his true self to them and doesn't feel comfortable keeping up with their over-the-top lifestyle. Meanwhile, Brent, who was hurt by Tanner's sudden rise to popularity, starts to feel left behind and forgotten by his friend. As his relationship with Brent starts to suffer, Tanner starts to question whether his newfound popularity is worth losing his true friendships.

The movie also addresses serious themes such as homophobia and the pressure to conform to societal norms. Though set in a high school, the movie’s themes and message are relevant to all ages.

The performances in the film are great. Willett stars as Tanner Daniels and does a fantastic job of portraying the character's journey from being awkward and uncomfortable in his own skin to finding out who he truly is. Iacono is also excellent as Brent, Tanner's best friend who is also trying to find his place in the world. Pieterse, Bowen, and Roquemore do well as the popular girls, showcasing their desperation to have a GBF.

The movie's direction and screenplay by Darren Stein are also notable. The film is shot beautifully and has some great comedic moments. The script addresses serious themes such as homophobia, bullying, and acceptance in a way that is both heartfelt and funny. Stein does an excellent job of balancing the humor and drama while still sending a clear message to the audience.

In conclusion, G.B.F. is an entertaining and heartfelt movie that touches on important, serious issues with sincerity and humor. Michael J. Willett and Paul Iacono's performances as the lead characters are strong, and Darren Stein's direction and screenplay maintain a good balance of comedy and drama. The film's themes, including acceptance, self-discovery, and friendship, are relevant and important to people of all ages, making it a must-watch for everyone.