Not Cool (2014) Characters, Setting & Themes Explained

Not Cool takes place primarily in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. The story unfolds across several key locations including a high school that serves as a backdrop for past memories, an airport where family reunions occur, the family home where personal dynamics are tested, a grocery store that becomes a stage for comedic scenes, and a football stadium that symbolizes a romantic getaway.

• pittsburgh
• setting
• locations
• high school
• airport
• family home

Not Cool is set in contemporary times during the Thanksgiving holiday. The story captures the essence of modern family gatherings and relationship dynamics, grounding the narrative in familiar seasonal experiences like Thanksgiving celebrations and Black Friday shopping.

• thanksgiving
• time period
• contemporary
• holiday
• modern setting

Not Cool explores three primary themes: Love and Heartbreak, as characters navigate romantic entanglements and unresolved feelings; Coming of Age, focusing on characters grappling with their identities and social expectations; and Family Dynamics, which examines tensions between personal growth and familial relationships.

• themes
• love
• heartbreak
• coming of age
• family dynamics

Tori is the main protagonist portrayed by Cherami Leigh. She is a witty and self-reflective young woman who grapples with her past while striving for a better future. Her humor often masks deeper insecurities about her relationships and life choices, and throughout the film she challenges herself and others, leading to moments of growth and connection.

• tori
• main character
• protagonist
• cherami leigh

Scott, played by Shane Dawson, is a former high school classmate of Tori with a charming yet dorky persona. His journey involves reconciling past mistakes and pursuing a second chance with Tori. Scott embodies the struggles of young love, blending humor with earnestness that makes him relatable to viewers.

• scott
• shane dawson
• love interest
• romantic lead

Joel, played by Drew Monson, is a well-meaning but slightly misguided friend who harbors romantic feelings for Janie. His attempts to win her over often lead to comedic situations, showcasing both his determination and vulnerability. Throughout the film, Joel learns to navigate his romantic pursuits with greater sincerity.

• joel
• drew monson
• friend
• janie
• romantic pursuit

Janie, portrayed by Michelle Vientimilla, is a smart and somewhat conflicted character who balances academic struggles with her feelings for Joel. Her straightforwardness helps anchor the narrative as she navigates her relationship with her brother and the complexities of young love.

• janie
• michelle vientimilla
• character
• academic
• Joel

Not Cool explores coming of age through Tori and Scott's adventures, highlighting the risks and rewards of stepping out of comfort zones. The theme promotes self-discovery, laughter, and the pursuit of authenticity in the face of personal and external pressures, depicting the messy but meaningful journey of adolescence.

• coming of age
• self-discovery
• adolescence
• growth
• authenticity

Family dynamics play a crucial role in Not Cool, particularly through Tori's interactions with her family members. An engagement announcement sparks tensions and reveals underlying issues within the family. The narrative underscores the importance of understanding and reconciling familial relationships amidst personal growth and individual aspirations.

• family
• relationships
• tension
• engagement
• reconciliation

Love and heartbreak are central themes in Not Cool, with Tori and Scott's relationship trajectory marked by comical misunderstandings, heartfelt confessions, and personal growth. The film underscores the struggles of young love, the impact of past relationships, and the journey toward healing and connection.

• young love
• heartbreak
• relationships
• healing
• second chance

Each location in Not Cool serves a narrative purpose: the high school connects characters to their past; the airport sets the tone for family reunions; the family home tests personal dynamics during celebrations; the grocery store becomes a stage for comedic escapades; and the football stadium symbolizes romantic adventure. Together, these locations create a relatable backdrop for teenage experiences.

• locations
• settings
• high school
• airport
• football stadium
• grocery store

Not Cool has an overwhelmingly light and comedic tone, driven by humorous situations, breakup comedy, and youthful pranks. The fast-paced narrative maintains an engaging but not overwhelming intensity, combining crude and situational comedy with romantic elements. The overall tone is optimistic and comedic, ending on a happy note.

• comedy
• tone
• humor
• lighthearted
• optimistic