Always and Forever Brings the Trilogy to an End

Adapted from Jenny Han’s novel, the much-anticipated Valentine's day release, To All the Boys: Always and Forever, proves to be more than just a crowd-pleaser. Finishing off the extremely popular teen trilogy, this feel-good rom-com left its audience believing in true love. 

The film’s plot revolves around Lara Jean Song-Covey (Lana Condor) and Peter Kavnisky (Noah Centineo). We find our star couple in their most-awaited senior year, already making plans for college at Stanford together and beyond. But when Lara Jean gets rejected by Stanford, she begins to rethink her future. With Peter on one hand and her obligation to stay true to herself on the other, Lara Jean must finally grow up and own her decisions, even if those decisions put her three thousand miles away from her bae. Contrasting the last two movies, Han spotlights Lara Jean’s relationship with her sisters, Kitty (Anne Cathcart) and Margot (Janel Parrish), and her friends. Whether it be singing K-Pop in Seoul with her sisters or living it up in NYC with Chris (Madeleine Arthur), Always and Forever focuses on Lara Jean as a heroine in her own story rather than just Kavinsky’s girlfriend. 

Similarly, we see Peter in a different light, with his father’s greater involvement. As Peter begins to reconcile his former relationship with his father, their bond gives audiences a chance to see Peter beyond the stereotypical love interest. 

Unfortunately, due to the formulated script and silhouetted screenplay, the movie seemed drawn out at times and follows the same format as many other teen rom-com. Always and Forever does not bring the same charming energy and comedy that the first movie of the franchise. Moreover, some of the key title cards feel misplaced. Her Korea trip at the beginning seemingly acknowledges her Asian heritage, losing its smooth transition and depriving the film of being a cohesive story.  

As a whole, To All the Boys: Always and Forever gives the audience a realistic, fulfilling end. With a combination of humor and an appeal to emotions, the cast highlights the reality of a high school relationship, while staying true to its original lightheartedness. The overall message that the film portrays is well-suited, with the cast reminding us that it is important to always persevere.  

Rating: B