Never Been Kissed: Then & Now! See The Cast Today

Ever wondered where some of Hollywood's biggest stars got their start? Many successful actors and actresses launch their careers with small, yet memorable, roles, and Jessica Alba's appearance in "Never Been Kissed" is a perfect example of this.

"Never Been Kissed," the 1999 romantic comedy directed by Raja Gosnell, remains a beloved film for its lighthearted charm and nostalgic appeal. Starring Drew Barrymore, David Arquette, Michael Vartan, Leelee Sobieski, Jeremy Jordan, Molly Shannon, Garry Marshall, and John C. Reilly, the film tells the story of Josie Geller, a copy editor who gets a second chance at high school when she goes undercover for a newspaper assignment. While Barrymore shines as the lead, it's the early appearances of future stars like Jessica Alba and James Franco that add another layer of interest for modern viewers. This film, produced by Barrymore's Flower Films, captured the essence of late 90s rom-coms, blending humor with heartwarming moments.

For Jessica Alba, "Never Been Kissed" marked her first foray into film. She played Kirsten Liosis, one of the popular girls at South Glen South High School. Though a relatively small role, it put Alba on the map, showcasing her potential and opening doors to bigger opportunities. Similarly, James Franco made his film debut in "Never Been Kissed," further solidifying the movie's significance as a launching pad for talent. The film's soundtrack, filled with 80s-inspired music, adds to its nostalgic charm, creating a familiar and comforting viewing experience.

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Critics at the time, like Dustin Putman, noted the films use of profanity and sexual innuendo, suggesting that while it aimed for a PG-13 rating, it sometimes leaned towards more adult themes. Despite this, the films central plot, where Josie infiltrates the popular clique with the help of her brother Rob, resonated with audiences, creating a blend of awkwardness and humor that defined the genre. "Never Been Kissed" provided a unique lens through which to explore high school dynamics, popularity, and the search for identity.

Since her role in "Never Been Kissed," Jessica Alba has become a household name, starring in blockbusters like "Dark Angel," "Fantastic Four," and "Sin City." Her portrayal of Kirsten in "Never Been Kissed" may have been a stepping stone, but it undoubtedly contributed to her trajectory in Hollywood. The film itself has seen continued appreciation over the years, with many viewers finding its charm increasingly endearing. Drew Barrymore even reprised her role as Josie in a sketch on "The Drew Barrymore Show" in 2020, proving the films lasting impact.

Available for streaming on Disney Plus and for purchase or rental on platforms like Amazon Video, Apple TV, Fandango at Home, and Microsoft Store, "Never Been Kissed" continues to find new audiences. The film's enduring appeal lies not only in its comedic elements but also in its reflection of universal themes such as self-discovery, acceptance, and the courage to be true to oneself. For those interested in seeing where Jessica Alba's career began, "Never Been Kissed" offers a delightful glimpse into her early talent and potential. The movies story, centered around Josie's attempt to relive her high school years, resonates with anyone who has ever felt like an outsider or longed for a second chance.

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In many ways, "Never Been Kissed" is more than just a romantic comedy; it's a snapshot of a specific era in filmmaking, characterized by quirky characters, relatable scenarios, and a soundtrack that perfectly encapsulates the late 90s. The dynamic between Josie and her brother, Rob, as they navigate the complexities of high school, provides many of the film's comedic highlights. The film's success also hinges on the performances of its supporting cast, including Molly Shannon as Josie's eccentric coworker and John C. Reilly as her supportive boss, all of whom contribute to the film's overall charm.

The Spanish versions of the film, titled "Nunca me han besado" in Spain and "Jams besada" in Hispanic America, showcase its international appeal. The film's themes of love, identity, and belonging resonate across different cultures, making it a universally enjoyable story. "Never Been Kissed" also explores the challenges of fitting in and the importance of staying true to oneself, messages that are particularly relevant for younger audiences. The film's portrayal of high school life, while exaggerated for comedic effect, touches on real issues such as peer pressure, bullying, and the search for acceptance.

Beyond its entertainment value, "Never Been Kissed" offers a glimpse into the career trajectories of its stars, particularly Jessica Alba. Her role as Kirsten, though not a leading one, showcased her charisma and screen presence, paving the way for her future success. Similarly, James Franco's debut in the film marked the beginning of a prolific career that has spanned both mainstream and independent cinema. "Never Been Kissed" serves as a reminder that even small roles can have a significant impact on an actor's career.

The film's setting, though not explicitly set in the 80s, evokes a sense of nostalgia for that era, with its fashion, music, and cultural references. The soundtrack, in particular, features a blend of classic 80s hits and contemporary tracks, creating a vibrant and energetic atmosphere. "Never Been Kissed" captures the spirit of the late 90s while also paying homage to the decade that preceded it, making it a film that appeals to multiple generations.

The casting of "Never Been Kissed" was crucial to its success, with each actor bringing their unique talents to their respective roles. Drew Barrymore's portrayal of Josie Geller is both endearing and relatable, capturing the character's awkwardness and vulnerability. David Arquette's performance as Josie's brother, Rob, provides much of the film's comedic relief, while Michael Vartan's portrayal of the sensitive English teacher, Sam Coulson, adds a touch of romance to the story. The film's ensemble cast works together seamlessly to create a memorable and enjoyable viewing experience.

In addition to its comedic and romantic elements, "Never Been Kissed" also explores themes of personal growth and self-acceptance. Josie's journey to reinvent herself in high school is ultimately about finding her own identity and embracing her true self. The film encourages viewers to be authentic and to not be afraid to stand out from the crowd. "Never Been Kissed" is a celebration of individuality and the importance of staying true to oneself, even in the face of peer pressure and societal expectations.

The film's production values, while not extravagant, are effective in creating a believable and engaging world. The high school setting is vividly portrayed, with attention to detail in the costumes, set design, and cinematography. "Never Been Kissed" is a visually appealing film that captures the look and feel of late 90s suburban America. The film's use of color and lighting enhances its overall mood, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere that draws viewers into the story.

The screenplay for "Never Been Kissed" is well-crafted, with witty dialogue, memorable characters, and a compelling plot. The film's humor is both broad and subtle, appealing to a wide range of viewers. "Never Been Kissed" is a cleverly written film that keeps audiences engaged from beginning to end. The film's use of situational comedy and slapstick humor adds to its overall appeal, making it a highly entertaining and enjoyable viewing experience.

The direction of "Never Been Kissed" by Raja Gosnell is skillful and assured, guiding the actors to deliver strong performances and maintaining a consistent tone throughout the film. Gosnell's direction is both sensitive and humorous, capturing the nuances of the characters and their relationships. "Never Been Kissed" is a well-directed film that showcases Gosnell's talent for comedy and his ability to create engaging and entertaining stories.

The editing of "Never Been Kissed" is sharp and precise, ensuring that the film moves at a brisk pace and that each scene contributes to the overall narrative. The film's editing is seamless and unobtrusive, allowing viewers to become fully immersed in the story. "Never Been Kissed" is a well-edited film that enhances its overall impact and effectiveness.

The music in "Never Been Kissed," both the original score and the licensed tracks, plays a crucial role in setting the tone and enhancing the emotional impact of the film. The soundtrack features a mix of upbeat pop songs and melancholic ballads, reflecting the different moods and themes of the story. "Never Been Kissed" is a film that uses music effectively to create a richer and more immersive viewing experience.

The themes explored in "Never Been Kissed," such as identity, acceptance, and self-discovery, are timeless and universal, making the film relevant to audiences of all ages and backgrounds. The film's message of staying true to oneself and embracing one's individuality resonates with viewers who have ever felt like an outsider or struggled to fit in. "Never Been Kissed" is a film that offers valuable insights into the human condition and the challenges of growing up.

The critical reception to "Never Been Kissed" was mixed, with some critics praising its humor and charm, while others found it to be predictable and formulaic. However, the film has gained a cult following over the years, with many viewers appreciating its lighthearted tone and nostalgic appeal. "Never Been Kissed" is a film that has stood the test of time, continuing to entertain and delight audiences decades after its initial release.

The legacy of "Never Been Kissed" extends beyond its box office success and critical reception. The film has had a lasting impact on popular culture, influencing fashion, music, and other forms of media. "Never Been Kissed" is a film that has left its mark on the cultural landscape, continuing to be referenced and celebrated by fans around the world.

In conclusion, "Never Been Kissed" is a charming and entertaining romantic comedy that offers a glimpse into the early careers of stars like Jessica Alba and James Franco. Its themes of self-discovery, acceptance, and the courage to be true to oneself make it a timeless classic that continues to resonate with audiences of all ages. Whether you're a fan of Drew Barrymore, a lover of 90s rom-coms, or simply looking for a feel-good movie, "Never Been Kissed" is a film that is sure to delight.