#realityhigh

If you're in the mood for a light, albeit predictable, high school comedy, #realityhigh might just scratch that itch. With a mix of social media antics and teenage drama, it provides a few laughs but struggles to stand out in a crowded genre.

Teen Drama Meets Social Media

#realityhigh follows Dani Barnes, a nerdy teenager who finally catches the attention of her crush, Cameron Drake. The problem? Cameron's ex-girlfriend, Alexa, is a social media influencer who makes it her mission to sabotage Dani's newfound romance. What ensues is a typical high school rivalry filled with awkward moments, social media mishaps, and the quest for acceptance. Dani's journey touches on themes of self-discovery, friendship, and the often shallow nature of popularity among teens, yet it feels somewhat recycled from numerous other films in the genre. It never quite finds its own voice as it walks a well-trodden path.

Characters That Don't Quite Click

Nesta Cooper delivers a solid performance as Dani, capturing the awkwardness and vulnerability of a high schooler trying to fit in. Keith Powers plays Cameron with enough charm, but his character lacks depth and is mostly reactive. Alicia Sanz, as the antagonist Alexa, tends to lean heavily into stereotypes, making her character feel one-dimensional. The supporting cast, including Anne Winters and Jake Borelli, offers moments of comic relief but often feel underutilized. The characters' arcs feel predictable, which detracts from the potential for deeper emotional resonance or character development.

Bright but Predictable Aesthetics

Fernando Lebrija's direction is competent but unremarkable. The film employs a bright and colorful aesthetic typical of teen comedies, which can be enjoyable but also feels clichéd. The pacing varies, with some scenes dragging a bit too long, particularly the ones focused on social media gimmicks. While there are some attempts at visual creativity, like clever use of split screens for social media interactions, they often come off as gimmicky rather than innovative. Overall, the visuals serve the narrative but lack any standout moments that would elevate the film beyond its genre limitations.

Mild Frustration and Nostalgia

Watching #realityhigh feels like a mix of nostalgia for high school and mild frustration at its formulaic approach. There are moments that will resonate with anyone who has dealt with teenage drama, but they’re often overshadowed by predictable plot points and a lack of genuine stakes. The humor can be hit or miss, with some jokes landing well while others feel forced. The film's emotional beats come across as superficial, leading to moments where the viewer might zone out, waiting for something unexpected to happen. Ultimately, it tries to be relatable but falls into the same traps of teenage clichés.