Part of becoming a film critic was recognizing that some of my favorite movies growing up weren’t actually that great. And in truth, they don’t have to be. Some things are a product of their time, and there are details to appreciate about that fact alone. But some movies and TV shows surprisingly hold up, making it an absolute blast to revisit. Such is the case with She’s the Man, and I actually can’t believe it, if I’m being honest.
On its 20th anniversary, it’s easy to look back and say that because it uses classic literature beats from Shakespeare’s Twelfth Night, it holds the weight of some toxic topics that are still prevalent today. We can talk at length about the differences in men’s sports versus women’s and how details that most people don’t understand play a role in how the general public perceives them. But what’s so easy to appreciate is a single line from Vinnie Jones’ Coach Dinklage when he makes a point that at Illyria, they don’t discriminate against gender. Rewatching that exact moment is even more satisfying in 2026 when discrimination feels louder and nastier because of social media. That beat alone makes the comedy hold up and feel inclusive, while the rest of the film shines as an authentic portrait of the woes present in our teen years.
A large part of the reason comedies don’t always hold up is that the jokes aren’t just dated, but they’re offensive. Yet, in She’s a Man, there’s a clear distinction between what’s right and wrong, showcasing that the movie was actually ahead of its time. Because of this, the romance hits even harder, and the friendships are surprisingly lovely too.
More than anything, credit where it’s due, Amanda Bynes’ distinct humor isn’t something that’s been replicated. It’s unfortunate she’s no longer acting because the role of Viola—and Sebastian—could’ve easily been surface-level if it weren’t for her ability to infuse emotions into every little snide remark and awkward interaction. There aren’t many young comedians who can act with their facial expressions as boldly as Bynes, which often ensured that she got laughs out of all of us. Though it was acting, it comes off so organically that it never once feels overdone, making every moment twice as hilarious because of her. And because Bynes is capable of a full range of emotions, it helps that the writing gives her plenty of room to touch on a wide variety, ensuring that the dramatic and unbelievable antics feel real as opposed to being fabricated.
While Duke and Viola’s relationship isn’t an all-time favorite of mine, Channing Tatum matches Bynes’ comedy so brilliantly that it’s entertaining throughout. It works from start to finish as their awkward friendship fuses into something bigger. The ridiculous jokes and conversations about cheese still stick the landing, and for once, it’s nice to see the male main character get training on how to date rather than the female, which the early aughts were notorious for. Because of this, even their romance is thoroughly entertaining, and the ridiculous, unlikely pairings getting together is fully refreshing.
Ultimately, She’s the Man is as close to perfect as a teen comedy gets. Hilarious, sharp, and led by an exceptional performance from Amanda Bynes, it’s one of the few movies that gets better with time.
First Featured Image Credit: ©Paramount Pictures