In most movies with a cross-dressing character, such as Shakespeare in Love (1998), Just One of the Guys (1985), and Tootsie (1982), the humor wears thin once the novelty of the gender-bending costumes is established. Of course, Shakespeare in Love and Tootsie also have extraordinary acting, but the humor still depends upon the audience being in on the secret identity of the cross-dresser.
She’s the Man, however, remains laugh-out-loud funny from beginning to ending. The humor derives from the cross-dressing situation, but in addition, the quirky characters, surprising dialogue, and outrageous comedic talents of Amanda Bynes combine to make this little teen movie exceptionally funny.
Amanda Bynes Plays a Tomboy in She’s the Man
The story begins with Viola Hastings (Bynes) finding out that the girl’s soccer team at her school has been cut for the year. After pleading with the soccer coach and the boy’s soccer team for help (and losing her boyfriend in the process), Viola dejectedly accepts that she won’t get the opportunity to play competitive soccer. That is, until her twin brother Sebastian (James Kirk) decides to run away to London to pursue a career opportunity, which leaves her free to assume his identity at the new private school where he was transferred for truancy.
Upon arriving at Illyria, Viola instantly falls for Sebastian’s hunky roommate Duke (Channing Tatum) and is pursued by the unknowing Olivia (Laura Ramsey), who appreciates “Sebastian’s” sensitivity and delicate features. In an ill-fated agreement to convince the beautiful Olivia to go on a date with Duke, in return Viola will receive soccer lessons from Duke, in order to qualify as a first-string player. Their agreement poses a problem when the real Sebastian shows up on campus and true identities and hidden crushes suddenly become known to all.
Viola and the Dreaded Debutante Ball
Bynes manages to bring on the laughs in virtually every scene. Her awkwardly self-conscious mannerisms, highly expressive face, ever-changing male/female voice, and effective use of props (including an Ace bandage and a cell phone) bring life to each scene and draw the humor out of every syllable of dialogue. Woven throughout the film are details of the looming debutante ball, in which Viola must wear a ruffled dress, chew with her mouth closed, and behave like a young lady – opportunities for Bynes to show off even more of her considerable physical comedy skills.
Supporting characters Vinnie Jones as the overly aggressive soccer coach at Illyria, David Cross as the ridiculously upbeat principal, and Julie Hagerty as Viola’s ultra-feminine mother provide memorable moments as well.
- She’s the Man (2006 Widescreen Edition)
- Director: Andy Fickman
- Run Time: 105 minutes
- Rating: PG-13 (sexual material)
- DVD Bonus Features: Commentary by director and cast (including Amanda Bynes); Making the Man; The Troupe; Inspired by Shakespeare’s…; Deleted Scenes; Gag Reel; Music Video; Trailer; Cast Photo Album.
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