Duff Review

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Duff is a coming-of-age comedy that deals with the peer-pressure syndrome and insecurities that afflict adolescents.  It’s about a girl who fights against and conquers the label assigned to her – DUFF or ‘designated ugly fat friend’- by her more genetically-endowed and emotionally-stunted peers. However, unlike many of its predecessors that focused on the clique culture (Mean Girls), Duff highlights the universal phenomenon that plagues teenagers- social labelling or preconceived categorization a.k.a name-calling.

The movie is entertaining and while it is not exceptional in any way, since the issue it deals with has been done to death, it does make you feel cheerful about life. Isn’t it is always satisfying to see the underdog (/underbitch?) get his/her happy ending!

Mae Whitman lives the role; Bianca is smart, funny and very likeable. She is an inspiration to all ‘duffs.’ Wesley, played by Robbie Amell, is head jock and a sweet guy, which is a refreshing change from the usual depiction of a heartless misogynistic jerk. The chemistry between the two is great, making the romance believable and endearing.

Another appealing aspect of the movie is that it shows that not every ‘hot’ girl is self-obsessed and nasty. The movie redefines existing labels, or rather shows the person under the label – jock, hot girl, duff- and points out that you can outgrow your label, that it’s only a matter of perspective. The movie also parodies the overwhelming influence of social media. It’s heartening to see that at the end of the film, it’s the print media that delivers the winning blow.

A fun movie and an inspiring chick flick. I guess boys do like a little more booty to hold at night.

Rating: 3/5

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