Unnecessary Drama

Teens learning to trust again and discovering that drama is sometimes necessary for growth populate this sunny rom-com by Kenwood (It Sounded Better in My Head). Eighteen-year-old Brooke, a college freshman studying economics in Melbourne, is both excited and anxious to move into her “share house” with new dormmate Harper. As the two await their final roommate’s arrival, Harper, whose family owns the property, lays down the ground rules: “No pets; no romance between housemates; and no unnecessary drama.” Type A Brooke anticipates that following these rules will be a breeze, until she learns that her mystery roommate is Jesse, Brooke’s former high school friend who broke her heart when she was 14. To keep things civil, Brooke feigns friendliness in public and avoids Jesse at home, but the forced intimacy of their proximity erodes her long-held grudge. As the pair rehash old arguments, heal open wounds, and confide in each other about family conflict, Brooke finds herself falling back in love with the boy she swore to hate. Brooke’s high-intensity personality, amicable chatter, and hyper-independence propel the narrative through its believable and hilarious goings-on. Main characters cue as white. Ages 13–up. (Aug.)