Lloyd, an eternal optimist, seeks to capture the heart of Diane, an unattainable high school beauty and straight-A student. He surprises just about everyone-including himself-when she returns the sentiment. But Diane's over-possessive, divorced Dad disapproves and it's going to take more than just the power of love to conquer all.
Cusack and Skye's relationship develops nicely and believably, but Crowe has not written an entirely convincing character for the latter to play.
– Variety Staff,
Variety,
17 Jul 2007
fresh:
At last, a teenage love story with real characters instead of cliches, poses, and attitudes.
– Jonathan Rosenbaum,
Chicago Reader,
17 Jul 2007
fresh:
he love story is as old-fashioned as the jokes are old hat, but Crowe's amusing script and unforced direction allow the actors to develop reasonably authentic characters from stereotypical roles.
– Derek Adams,
Time Out,
9 Feb 2006
fresh:
The film is all charming performances and grace notes, but there are plenty of worse things to be.
– Caryn James,
New York Times,
20 May 2003
fresh:
The cast is irresistibly charming, down to the bit parts by Lili Taylor and Amy Brooks as Lloyd's best friends.