Netflix is building out the cast of “Better Than the Movies,” its upcoming adaptation of Lynn Painter’s bestselling young-adult romance novel.
Beatrice Kitsos will star as high school senior Liz Buxbaum opposite David Iacono as Wes Bennett, her irritatingly charming next-door neighbor. Netflix has now added Deacon Phillippe, Judy Greer, Luke Kirby and Nicole Bruner to the romantic comedy.
Beatrice Kitsos and David Iacono Lead the Romance
Liz is a devoted fan of romantic comedies who dreams of creating her own perfect love story.
When she wants to catch the attention of longtime crush Michael Young, she reluctantly asks Wes for help. Their plan places Liz closer to the boy she thinks she wants — while also forcing her to spend much more time with the neighbor who constantly gets under her skin.
According to Netflix Tudum, the adaptation will play with familiar rom-com ideas including enemies-to-lovers, the boy next door and fake relationships.
Deacon Phillippe and Judy Greer Join the Cast
Deacon Phillippe will play Michael Young, the crush at the center of Liz’s original romantic plan.
The supporting cast also includes Judy Greer as Helena, Luke Kirby as Brian Buxbaum and Nicole Bruner as Jocelyn.
Claire Coffee, Ora Duplass, Veronica Garrubbo and Kynlee Heiman are also part of the ensemble.
The additions expand the world surrounding Liz and Wes while keeping the teenage romance at the center of the story.
The Movie Embraces Classic Teen Rom-Com Tropes
“Better Than the Movies” became popular with readers for combining high-school romance with references to the romantic comedies Liz loves.
Rather than simply repeating familiar formulas, Netflix says the movie will play with those conventions and offer its own version of what a happy ending can look like.
Kitsos has described Liz as nerdy, quirky and awkward — qualities she believes make the character especially relatable.
Netflix Has Not Announced a Release Date Yet
The film is directed by Julia Hart, who also co-wrote the screenplay with Jordan Horowitz and Heather Flanders.
Netflix has confirmed the cast and central story but has not yet announced an official release date.
With Beatrice Kitsos and David Iacono leading the movie and a growing supporting cast that includes Deacon Phillippe and Judy Greer, “Better Than the Movies” is shaping up as a new addition to Netflix’s young-adult romantic comedy lineup.