In a world of classic rom-coms like “10 Things I Hate About You” and “Clueless,” “To All the Boys I’ve Loved Before” (“TATBILB”) stands out as the defining romance for Gen Z. With the fresh take on high school love, diverse representation, and creative storytelling, it reinvents the rom-com formula for a new era.
Based on Jenny Han’s bestselling novel, “TATBILB” follows Lara Jean Covey, a shy high school junior whose secret love letters to her past crushes are accidentally sent out by her little sister, Kitty. Chaos ensues when one of the recipients, the cliche popular jock, Peter Kavinsky, proposes they start fake dating to make his ex jealous. What starts as a mutual arrangement soon turns into something real, forcing Lara Jean to confront her fears about love and vulnerability.
A real, relatable protagonist
Lara Jean isn’t the typical rom-com lead – she’s not the effortlessly popular girl or the awkward, quirky outcast. She’s an introverted book-lover who spends more time fantasizing about romance than wanting to actually experiencing it (a character trope that is actually used more commonly in newer rom-coms!).
To a generation that values introspection and authenticity, Lara Jean’s mix of awkwardness and emotional depth make her feel like someone that you’d actually know and relate to, which is relieving. Whether she’s overthinking another situation, struggling with communicating with her feelings, or navigating the chaos of high school relationships, she’s the perfect embodiment of a Gen Z protagonist: introspective, emotionally intelligent, and unafraid to be vulnerable.
More than just a love story
The film’s main romance between Lara Jean and Peter Kavinsky isn’t just adorable–it’s layered. The fake-dating mixed with a slow-burn trope, a favorite among all rom-com fans, is executed in a way that feels fresh. Unlike older rom-coms that often rely on grand romantic gestures, “TATBILB” relies on the smaller, yet more intimate moments. With Peter remembering Lara Jean’s favorite yogurt drink and her fear of driving and Lara Jean noticing all of his little quirks and habits, you can’t help but feel giddy whenever each moment appears on screen.
Not only that, but their relationship actually serves as a model for many young people wanting to be in a relationship. The series includes realistic internal and external conflicts between the two lovers, including Lara Jean’s fear of being the other woman and potential insincerity of their relationship after high school while attending two different colleges.
It’s not just about them finding romance–rather the fact that they bring out the weaknesses in each other and build upon it together. They learn to open up, trust, and embrace feelings, even when they’re terrifying. I feel as though the series has a core focus on these small details that not many people notice at times, which is definitely the whole point of the movie.
Representation that feels natural
For decades, rom-coms featured casts that focused on a certain dynamic, leaving diverse characters sidelined or used as comic relief. “TATBILB” changes that.
Lara Jean, a Korean-American lead, isn’t defined solely by her heritage, but it is naturally woven into the story. From her love for Korean yogurt drinks to her family’s traditions, her identity is treated as a part of her, not a whole plot point.
Beyond that, Peter Kavinsky himself is a refreshing departure from the typical rom-com heartthrob. He’s not a bad boy who needs to be fixed or an unattainable dream guy – he’s kind, affectionate, and emotionally open, setting a new standard for what a leading man in a rom-com should be. He has his obvious flaws, and he doesn’t try to shove them away from Lara Jean because he’s the “cliche perfect guy.” He takes his time to fix them and his growth is eminent throughout the series.
Why it’s the Gen Z Rom-Com
Every generation has that rom-com—the one they look back on with nostalgia. For Gen Z, “TATBILB” is that film. It takes the best parts of classic rom-coms—heartfelt romance, charming leads, and witty dialogue—but updates them with a modern sensibility that reflects how love and relationships actually work today. And let’s be honest: Peter Kavinsky’s hand in Lara Jean’s back pocket will always be iconic.
