Growing Up is Awkward, Especially for Brian

Ah, high school! That not-so-glamorous rollercoaster ride where anything can happen, and awkwardness reigns supreme. Enter Brian, your typical socially awkward teen who’s all about panic attacks and, oh boy, a crush on his English teacher! Sound familiar? In his colorful directorial debut, Brian, Will Ropp serves up a heaping helping of self-aware humor that might just have you reminiscing about your own teenage years.

Meet Brian – The Reluctant Student Body President

Written by the hilariously insightful Mike Scollins from Saturday Night Live fame, the film trails Brian (played by the fabulous Ben Wang) as he bravely decides to conquer his social fears by running for student body president. Did we mention his crush, who’s also the president of the campaign team? That’s right, the lovely Brooke (Natalie Morales). His loving yet hilariously overbearing parents (the dynamic duo of Randall Park and Edi Patterson), a quirky new best buddy (Joshua Colley), and his wise therapist (William H. Macy) join him in the chaotic journey of teenage friendship and aspirations.

Tripping Through Comedy and Missteps

This adventure isn’t all smooth sailing! Expect uproarious blunders along the way, delivered by a cast that nails that quirky charm, and a director who clearly loves the script as much as we do. Brian made its grand entrance at South by Southwest, shining brightly even if it didn’t nab any shiny awards. Critics couldn’t help but notice its laugh-out-loud moments paired with heartfelt storytelling.

Be True to Your Awkward Self

Wang, who splendidly embodies the anxious teen, finds that portraying Brian isn’t too far from his own reality. He dove right in, ensuring that every quirk and tic felt as real as that embarrassing moment you wish you could erase from your memory. “I just showed up and was myself!” Wang claims, showing us that authenticity is the name of the game here.

Roller Backpacks and Eye-Rolling Memories

Ropp chose to give Brian a roller backpack, a detail that Wang had fondly carried in his high school days—before realizing it was the butt of jokes. “Efficient!