Anyone But You

Anyone But You

Year: 2023

Runtime: 1 h 43 m

Language: English

Director: Will Gluck

Echo Score: 63

Budget: $25M

ComedyRomance

Following an awkward first date, Bea and Ben are unexpectedly reunited at a wedding in Australia. They decide to pretend to be a couple to navigate the weekend, but as they play the part, their initial animosity gives way to unexpected feelings, leading them to question if their charade can lead to something real.

Warning: spoilers below!

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Anyone But You (2023) – Full Plot Summary & Ending Explained

Read the complete plot breakdown of Anyone But You (2023), including all key story events, major twists, and the ending explained in detail. Discover what really happened—and what it all means.

While on a quest to secure a restroom key in a bustling coffee shop, law student Bea, portrayed by Sydney Sweeney, has a chance encounter with Ben, played by Glen Powell, an employee at Goldman Sachs. Faced with a long line and frustrated by the shop’s policy, Bea finds herself in a tricky situation until Ben steps in, pretending to be her husband to help her get the key.

From their very first conversation, the chemistry between Bea and Ben is clear, leading them to spend an unforgettable day together that surprisingly concludes with them falling asleep on Ben’s couch. However, when Bea leaves the next morning without waking him, regret soon follows as she decides to return. Unfortunately, she overhears Ben making hurtful comments about her to his friend Pete, played by GaTa.

This cruel revelation devastates Ben, who feels betrayed by Bea’s abrupt departure. He reflects on a meaningful gift from his mother, a colossal wrench that symbolizes repair and fixing things that feel broken—a metaphor for his feelings. Meanwhile, Pete insists that Ben is falling for Bea.

As time passes, six months go by without contact until fate intervenes when Bea’s sister Halle, beautifully played by Hadley Robinson, begins a relationship with Pete’s sister Claudia, portrayed by Alexandra Shipp. Their reunion is tense, with both Bea and Ben feeling resentment towards each other for their fractured past.

While preparing for a wedding in Sydney planned by Halle and Claudia, Bea, having broken up with her fiancé Jonathan (Darren Barnet) and secretly left law school, is aghast to discover that she and Ben are on the same flight to Australia and will be staying at the same house in the lead-up to the celebrations. The anticipation builds as they face not only each other but also their exes, Jonathan and Margaret, played by Charlee Fraser.

Chaos ensues at the wedding preparations, particularly when Bea and Ben’s enmity comes to a head, causing mayhem that leads to the destruction of wedding decorations and even Halle’s hair! Concerned about the impending chaos, Claudia fears that Bea and Ben will ruin their special day. The stakes rise as their parents try to orchestrate a reunion between Bea and Jonathan, while the guests conspire to bring Bea and Ben back together.

They eventually strike a deal to pretend to be a couple to provoke jealousy from others and deter their families from meddling. Ben eventually expresses regret over his past words and actions, trying to mend the rift between them. As they attempt to showcase their relationship, their efforts meet with mixed responses until a boat party where they share an intimate dance, evoking “Titanic” vibes, resulting in Bea accidentally falling into Sydney Harbour.

During a vulnerable moment while awaiting rescue, Bea reveals her struggles, including her departure from law school and breakup with Jonathan. Ben admits his feelings of hurt from Bea’s earlier actions. Their emotional connection deepens, leading to a night of passion together, but uncertainty creeps back in when Bea expresses regrets over her choices.

On the morning of the wedding, drama unfolds as Margaret asks Bea for permission to pursue Ben again, leaving Bea feeling conflicted. After moments of tension, Ben decides to chase after Bea when he sees her upset, realizing that Margaret is not who he wants anymore. He risks it all by jumping into the ocean to reach her.

In an emotional climax at the Opera House, Ben finds Bea and candidly confesses his fears about their relationship, leading to a heartfelt reconciliation. They return to the wedding reception together, where the orchestrated drama unfolds and reveals Halle and Claudia’s cunning plan to reunite them. The series of events ultimately leads to Jonathan and Margaret getting together as well, wrapping up a turbulent but transformative journey for all involved.

Last Updated: October 24, 2024 at 09:01

Ending Explained – What Happens at the End of Anyone But You?

Still wondering what the ending of Anyone But You (2023) really means? Here’s a spoiler-heavy breakdown of the final scene, major twists, and the deeper themes that shape the film’s conclusion.

The film concludes with Ben and Bea finally admitting their true feelings for each other. After a series of misunderstandings, awkward moments, and fake dating antics, they realize that the connection they’ve shared from the very first day was real. During the wedding celebration, Bea sees Ben kiss her ex, Margaret, which almost pushes her to walk away in disappointment. However, Ben, knowing she’s upset, makes a dramatic gesture by jumping off a boat and into the harbor—similar to one of his earlier heroic acts—to reach her at the opera house. His intention is to confess how much he loves her and to prove he’s serious about their relationship, just like a true rom-com hero. Ben’s grand gesture works perfectly, as he arrives just in time to join Bea, professing his feelings with a heartfelt speech. The film’s climax is set to the backdrop of the iconic Sydney Opera House, and the scene ends on a joyful note with everyone singing “Unwritten,” symbolizing the new chapter they are about to start together. Ultimately, the movie celebrates the idea that sometimes love requires taking bold risks and that genuine feelings can emerge despite the chaos of misunderstandings, leading to a happily ever after.

Last Updated: June 25, 2025 at 08:44

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Fake Relationship Charades like in Anyone But You

Couples who pretend to be in love only to find real feelings blooming.If you enjoyed the witty banter and romantic tension of 'Anyone But You', explore more movies where fake relationships turn real. These stories are perfect for fans of playful romantic comedies with charming characters, awkward situations, and inevitable happy endings.

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Narrative Summary

The narrative typically begins with a pragmatic agreement—to appease family, secure a benefit, or survive a social event. Through a series of shared experiences and comedic set pieces, the characters' defensive animosity softens into vulnerability and genuine care, culminating in a confession that their charade has become their reality.

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Love stories set against the backdrop of a picturesque vacation or event.Find more movies like 'Anyone But You' that blend romance and comedy in a gorgeous destination. These films offer a delightful escape with sunny settings, wedding chaos, or travel adventures that provide the perfect backdrop for a heartwarming and funny love story.

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Narrative Summary

The story often involves characters thrown together in an idyllic or high-stakes social setting, like a destination wedding or a group vacation. The confined environment and shared experiences force interaction, breaking down initial barriers. The journey is as much about enjoying the beautiful scenery and celebratory atmosphere as it is about the central couple finding their way to each other.

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This thread groups movies that balance a light, funny tone with a strong romantic core, all set within an appealing, escapist framework. They provide a comforting viewing experience with predictable, satisfying endings, medium intensity driven by social dynamics, and a focus on charm and feel-good vibes.

Unlock the Full Story of Anyone But You

Don't stop at just watching — explore Anyone But You in full detail. From the complete plot summary and scene-by-scene timeline to character breakdowns, thematic analysis, and a deep dive into the ending — every page helps you truly understand what Anyone But You is all about. Plus, discover what's next after the movie.

Anyone But You Timeline

Track the full timeline of Anyone But You with every major event arranged chronologically. Perfect for decoding non-linear storytelling, flashbacks, or parallel narratives with a clear scene-by-scene breakdown.

Anyone But You Timeline

Characters, Settings & Themes in Anyone But You

Discover the characters, locations, and core themes that shape Anyone But You. Get insights into symbolic elements, setting significance, and deeper narrative meaning — ideal for thematic analysis and movie breakdowns.

Characters, Settings & Themes in Anyone But You

Anyone But You Ending Explained

What really happened at the end of Anyone But You? This detailed ending explained page breaks down final scenes, hidden clues, and alternate interpretations with expert analysis and viewer theories.

Anyone But You Ending Explained

Anyone But You Spoiler-Free Summary

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Anyone But You Spoiler-Free Summary

More About Anyone But You

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