I am not gonna lie. I hate musicals.
The only two that I have ever enjoyed was Hairspray and Rent but I always felt like they took themselves too seriously and I couldn’t connect. But then I saw The Deb at TIFF, and I realised how completely wrong I was to hate them.
This was the biggest surprise for me at TIFF; while most critics spent their time raving about the big Oscar-bait titles, I was over here yapping about how hilarious and touching this movie really is. Rebel Wilson has revealed a whole new side of herself as a person and filmmaker. Her directorial debut is a story that playfully mocks teenage pressures and “mean girl” stereotypes. Centered on Taylah (Charlotte MacInnes), a small-town teen aiming to reclaim her dignity at her community’s debutante ball, the story explores popular the coming-of-age trope with vibrant choreography, funny-as-hell jokes and fresh energy on a tale as old as time.
Natalie Abbott is incredible as Maeve, Taylah’s ulta-rich, city girl cousin. Maeve is forced by her mother (headmistress of the school) to go live on her uncle’s farm as punishment for doing some wild Gen Z coded antic. The two of them on screen were exceptional; they were casted perfectly and are equally talented performers. Written and produced by Meg Washington, the musical score is why I ended up leaving the theatre a changed woman, the songs had me teary eyed from laughing and feeling sad. Wilson’s number is particularly hilarious- think Cool Ryder meets Easy Street from the TV movie, Annie.
This was an experience and I give it a 10/10 for originality that captures the cut throat vibes of Mean Girls paired with a joyful, musical experience.
The Deb is playing at TIFF ’24. For more information, click here.
