This is one of the most entertaining movies of the year and showcases the supernova explosion of a new movie star in Emma Stone. “Easy A” is an epically witty teen comedy that ranks with the classics in the genre such as, “Clueless”, “Mean Girls”, “American Pie” and “Fast Times at Ridgmont High”. I loved almost every minute of it. And just like every other guy between the ages of 13 and 50, it puts Emma Stone so far ahead in the “I wish she was my girlfriend” race that we might as well call the whole thing off.
The film follows Olive (Stone) as she maneuvers the tricky social ladder at her high-school. After a false rumor spreads like wildfire, Olive is pegged by the majority of her classmates as a slut. Just like Hester Prynne in The Scarlett Letter, she is labeled with a reputation that she cannot shake. So, rather than feeling sorry for herself, she decides to have fun with the situation and begins to sell salacious fake stories to guys so that they can brag to their friends. However, the lies get out of control and Olive soon regrets the whole thing.
There are fabulous supporting characters here. Thomas Haden Church, Lisa Kudrow, Patricia Clarkson and Stanley Tucci all deliver fantastic turns as faculty and parents. Also, Aly Michalka and Amanda Bynes are funny as Olive’s classmates.
But this film is a one-woman show. I remember seeing Emma Stone in “Superbad” and “The House Bunny”, thinking that she was tremendously charming. Unfortunately, she didn’t have enough to do in those films. Here though, she is the star of every single frame — literally bursting with energy and intelligence and wit, while contorting her gorgeous face like a gymnast nailing a perfect routine. I can’t think of many comedic actresses who have made such an impression. She has the best elements of Meg Ryan, Lindsay Lohan, Lucille Ball, Sandra Bullock, Cameron Diaz and Reese Witherspoon all rolled into one resplendent package.
Whether is it fair or not, comedic roles have a hard time being praised as Oscar worthy. Because the material is lightweight, critics often think of the work as easy. This should be an exception to the rule. Emma Stone delivers one of the year’s best performances in one of the smartest, funniest films of 2010. “Easy A” is one of those movies that becomes instantly re-watchable for years to come. Emma Stone is one of those actresses that becomes instantly lovable for years to come.
