Watch Better Nate Than Ever

Better Nate Than Ever is a heartwarming musical comedy-drama that explores the dreams and determination of a young boy with aspirations of stardom in the world of musical theater. This family-friendly film, released in 2022, is directed by Tim Federle, who adapted it from his own novel of the same name. The story, set to a bustling New York City backdrop, is both an ode to Broadway and a coming-of-age tale that inspires viewers to follow their dreams with passion and resilience.

The movie follows 13-year-old Nate Foster, played by Rueby Wood, a small-town kid with big Broadway dreams. Despite his enthusiasm and talent, Nate is an underdog in his middle school, where his artistic ambitions are often overshadowed by his athletic peers and dismissed by adults who fail to see his potential. Nate's passion for theater shines, but his performances are limited to the audience of his imagination, school productions, and the encouraging smile of his best friend, Libby, portrayed by Aria Brooks.

The magnetic character of Libby is not just Nate's best friend but also his greatest supporter. She has unwavering faith in Nate's abilities and complements his whimsical nature with her grounded and practical approach to life. Together, they share the ups and downs of adolescence, united by their love for the arts and each other's company.

Nate's life takes an unexpected turn when he discovers that a highly-anticipated Broadway musical adaptation of "Lilo & Stitch" is holding auditions. Seizing what he sees as a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, Nate concocts a daring plan. With his characteristic mix of wide-eyed optimism and a dash of naivety, he sneaks out to New York City, with unwitting help from Libby, to attend the audition and prove that he has what it takes to make it on the big stage.

Meanwhile, Nate's family dynamics are complicated. They are loving, but his parents are focused on his older brother Anthony, played by Joshua Bassett. Anthony's character, athlete and the golden child of the family, stands as Nate's opposite. There are subtle tensions, as Nate feels overshadowed and undervalued next to Anthony's more conventional successes. It is through this lens that we see Nate's journey to be not just about reaching for his dreams but also about seeking validation and understanding from his family.

Upon reaching New York City, the Big Apple presents itself in all its glory and grime to Nate, who must navigate this unpredictable urban maze. The city is overwhelming and exhilarating, full of the magic of Broadway's lights but also its darker, lonelier corners. It is within this metropolis that Nate experiences his most significant trials and triumphs, meeting a diverse cast of characters, who challenge and support his journey in unexpected ways. He encounters his eccentric Aunt Heidi, a character who provides Nate with a glimpse into the life of a performer in the city and acts as a mentor to him. Through these New York encounters, the film dives into themes of identity, acceptance, and the power of allies.

Nate's journey to the audition is fraught with comical hitches and detours. Through a series of mishaps and adventures, he not only has to elude the notice of his parents and dodge the many challenges of city life but also confront his own self-doubts and fears of failure. The story, while filled with belly laughs and slapstick humor, doesn't shy away from examining the deeper emotional undercurrents of belonging and the relentless pursuit of passion against all odds.

What sets Better Nate Than Ever apart is its infectious energy and unapologetic celebration of musical theater. The movie has a buoyant tone, full of lively song-and-dance sequences that pay homage to Broadway's rich history while simultaneously serving as a love letter to anyone who has ever felt like an outsider. Nate's story is a rallying cry for the dreamers and the outcasts, emphasizing that being different is not only acceptable but also to be embraced and cherished.

True to the genre, this film sweeps viewers into a world of aspiration and colorful characters, where the joy of the journey matters just as much as the destination. It is not just about making it big but about being true to oneself and finding where one belongs in the world. With strong performances from Rueby Wood, Aria Brooks, and Joshua Bassett, Better Nate Than Ever compels its audience to root for Nate and his indomitable spirit.

Better Nate Than Ever is a feel-good family movie that strikes chords of empathy and encouragement in anyone who has ever felt the urge to chase a dream, however outlandish it may seem. It's a testament to the young and the young at heart, reaffirming the universal truth that with courage, persistence, and a few leaps of faith, one can find their spotlight in the most unexpected places.

Better Nate Than Ever is a 2022 music movie. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 6.4 and a MetaScore of 66.