Whatever It Takes is a 2000 American teen comedy film directed by David Raynr.
The story revolves around Ryan Woodman, portrayed by Shane West, who is infatuated with the school's popular girl, Ashley Grant (Jodi Lyn O'Keefe). Despite his feelings, Ashley shows little interest in him, prompting Ryan's best friend, Maggie Carter (Marla Sokoloff), to encourage him to move on. However, the plot thickens when Chris Campbell (James Franco), Ashley's charming cousin, also has his sights set on Maggie and proposes a plan that involves swapping identities and advice with Ryan to win her heart.
The film is a modern retelling of the classic Cyrano de Bergerac tale, exploring themes of love, friendship, and the lengths one will go to find romance. As the characters navigate their relationships and the chaos of high school life, they each face humorous and poignant moments leading up to prom night. The film features a mix of comedic misunderstandings and romantic entanglements, typical of teen comedies from the era.
Released on March 31, 2000, Whatever It Takes received a lukewarm reception from critics, holding a mere 16% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes. Critics described it as a "run-of-the-mill teeny-bopper romance flick," citing clichés and a predictable plot as significant drawbacks. Despite this, it has garnered a cult following among fans of early 2000s teen movies.
The film's cast includes notable actors such as Aaron Paul in his feature film debut and Colin Hanks in supporting roles. With a runtime of approximately 94 minutes, Whatever It Takes combines elements of comedy and drama, making it a quintessential example of early 2000s teen cinema. While it may not have achieved critical acclaim, its exploration of youthful romance continues to resonate with audiences looking for lighthearted entertainment.