Jessica Darling's It List is a delightful coming-of-age movie that premiered on June 21, 2016. Running for one hour and nineteen minutes, the joyful trip into the world of a young girl negotiating middle school's complexity forms the film.
Based on Megan McCafferty's popular book series and guided by Ali Scher, Jessica Darling's It List beautifully depicts the spirit of teenage life—filled with both humor and relevant challenges. The narrative centers on seventh-grade smart and witty Jessica Darling, who gets a list from her older sister Bethany outlining how to become well-known in the classroom.
Jessica Darling's It List's main cast excels, making it an overall engaging watch. Chloe East plays Jessica Darling, conveying her innocence and determination with charm. Jessica's best friend Bridget, played by Emma Rayne Lyle, sticks by her.
Ashley Liao plays Manda, another close friend who enriches Jessica's life. Eva Bella as Sara and Jane Widdop as Hope help the film explore friendship and personal growth.
The main cast of Jessica Darling's It List
1) Chloe East as Jessica Darling
Chloe East plays Jessica Darling, a smart, clever person attempting to negotiate the often choppy waters of middle school. East makes Jessica the center of the film since she presents her in an appealing and relevant manner. Driven by her sister's "IT List," Jessica's path across the highs and lows of school life shapes the main line of action in the movie.
2) Emma Rayne Lyle as Bridget
Emma Rayne Lyle plays Jessica's loyal best friend Bridget. Lyle warms the film by showing the value of a reliable friend in tough times. Jessica relies on Bridget to navigate middle school while staying true to herself.
3) Ashley Liao as Manda
Ashley Liao plays Manda, another close friend in Jessica’s circle. Manda’s character brings additional layers to the story, highlighting the dynamics of middle school friendships and the challenges that come with them.
4) Eva Bella as Sara
Sara, portrayed by Eva Bella, is part of Jessica’s friend group. Bella’s role, though smaller, is crucial in portraying the varied personalities that form Jessica’s social circle. Sara’s interactions with the main characters add depth to the overall narrative.
5) Jane Widdop as Hope
Jane Widdop takes on the role of Hope, another friend of Jessica. Hope’s character represents the supportive friends who help Jessica through her journey, making her an essential part of the film’s message about the value of friendship.
Supporting cast and production team
1) Blair Fowler as Bethany Darling
Playing Bethany Darling, Jessica's older sister, Blair Fowler sets the narrative in motion with her "IT List". Though her counsel doesn't always work out as expected, Fowler's portrayal of Bethany is that of a guiding force in Jessica's life.
2) Eric Lutes and Jane Sibbett as Mr. and Mrs. Darling
Eric Lutes and Jane Sibbett take on the roles of Jessica’s parents. Their characters provide the grounding support Jessica needs as she navigates the complexities of growing up.
3) Jacob Melton as Aleck
In Jessica Darling's It List, Jacob Melton plays Aleck, a classmate who adds to the school’s social dynamics. His interactions with Jessica and her friends are part of the story’s exploration of middle school relationships.
Following Ali Scher's direction and Julie Sherman Wolfe's writing, based on Megan McCafferty's books, the entire cast performed well. Producers Tosca Musk and Jina Panebianco and executive producers Debby Ryan created a film that is entertaining and thought-provoking. Michael Lord's music and Damian Horan's cinematography in the film enhance the viewing experience.
The film Jessica Darling's It List deftly portrays the core of middle school life. Its interesting plot and likable characters let it teach important lessons about friendship, self-acceptance, and the need to keep true to oneself.
For those seeking a lighthearted but significant narrative, the film is a must-see since Chloe East and the rest of the cast give remarkable performances. Audiences of all ages still find resonance in Jessica Darling's It List with its well-rounded ensemble and deliberate production.