I received complimentary product in exchange for this review. All opinions are 100% my own.
One of the funniest movies I saw this year so far was definitely THE DUFF! This witty comedy focuses on the message of “just being you” while delivering laugh out loud fun. The film is currently available on Digital HD, Blu-ray Combo Pack, DVD, and On Demand from Lionsgate Home Entertainment and CBS Films.
The movie is based on the best-selling book by Kody Keplinger, and takes you into a world that explores the dynamics of high school social hierarchy. The film is directed by Academy Award® winner Ari Sandel and stars Mae Whitman as film fan Bianca Piper (The Perks of Being a Wallflower). Other talent featured include Robbie Amell (TV’s “The Flash”), Bella Thorne (Blended), Bianca Santos (Ouija), Skyler Samuels (upcoming TV’s “Scream Queens”) Romany Malco (Showtime’s “Weeds”), Nick Eversman (Wild) along with Ken Jeong (TV’s “Community”) and Allison Janney (TV’s “Mom”).
Bianca lives in the superficial world of high school where cliques set the rules. She learns the hard way that she is only known for her “hot friends” and is seen as the “duff” (Designated Ugly Fat Friend) by comparison. Unfortunately in dealing with the shock, she takes out her anger on her best friends, who actually never saw her as their “duff”.
In efforts to break the stereotype and become “datable” in time for the school’s BIG DANCE, she turns to her old childhood friend Wesley (Amell) to help her out. She convinces him to break her “duff” mold, while tutoring him in school. 
I love how Wesley helps build Bianca’s confidence! There are some hilarious scenes were he dares her to strike up conversations with random guys in the mall. It is much more clever (and hilarious) than your basic “makeover” scenes where just the fashion and hair is changed so to speak, as seen in other teen movies. You see their platonic friendship morph into something with potential.
I admit, at my age, it’s been awhile since I’ve watch “teen comedies”. I really enjoy the fresh quotable dialogue, and the chemistry between the main characters. You will have laughs, and there are some scene stealers (ahem Allison Janney!) that will put you in absolute stitches.
And if comedies that keep you laughing isn’t really your thing… have no fear… there is eye candy!!
Bottom line: The film isn’t some in depth thoughtful drama. It’s a fun fluff comedy. But the important part is that it will make you laugh and remind you of the days of high school with a little bit of John Hughes-esque flair (definitely see some Pretty in Pink similarities!).
Special Features
“The DUFF Hits The Red Carpet” featurette
“Bringing the Book to Life” featurette
“Teen Comedies and The DUFF” featurette
“I Am the DUFF” featurette
The DUFF Files
Extended Gag Reel
The DUFF Trailer
Buy It: The DUFF is available on Blu-ray and DVD for the suggested retail price of $39.99 and $29.95, respectively.
I think I just saw a commercial for this recently. From your description it sounds like it’s worth checking out.
I have never heard of this show, but it sounds like this generation of 90210. Might be fun to see and live in the past for a few minutes! :)
Typically when I watch TV, a fluff comedy is exactly what I’m looking for. Something to take my mind off the real world!
I love light comedies. Will have to check this out.
I can’t believe I missed this movie in the theaters. I am excited to see this one looked really funny in the previews.