In the movie “The Half of It,” Paul’s decision to kiss Ellie can be seen as a pivotal moment in the story. However, it is important to understand the context in order to fully grasp why Paul made this surprising move.
Throughout the film, Paul is initially infatuated with Aster, the popular girl in their high school. He approaches Ellie, who is known for her intelligence, to help him write love letters to win Aster’s heart. As Paul spends more time with Ellie, he begins to appreciate her kind-hearted nature, her wit, and their growing friendship.
As the story progresses, Paul starts to question his feelings for Aster and becomes more aware of the connection he shares with Ellie. He begins to realize that Ellie is more than just a “nerdy lead girl” but someone who truly understands him on a deeper level. This realization leads to his impulsive decision to kiss her, hoping to discover if there is a romantic spark between them.
However, Ellie’s reaction is one of horror and shock. She pushes him away, clearly not reciprocating his feelings. This rejection highlights the complexity of their relationship and the fact that the romantic connection Paul sought with Ellie was not mutual. It also serves as a turning point in the story, forcing both characters to confront their true desires and navigate the complexities of their friendship.
The kiss can be seen as a moment of vulnerability for Paul, as he takes a risk in expressing his feelings. It also showcases the internal struggle he faces between societal expectations (being with the popular girl) and his genuine connection with Ellie. Additionally, it highlights the importance of consent and mutual feelings in any romantic relationship.
In a heteronormative romcom, this would typically be the moment where the lead guy realizes that the “nerdy lead girl” was the right one for him all along. However, “The Half of It” subverts this trope by emphasizing the importance of genuine connections and the complexities of human emotions. It challenges the notion that love and attraction can be neatly categorized or forced.
Paul’s decision to kiss Ellie in “The Half of It” is a crucial moment that pushes both characters to confront their true desires and navigate the complexities of their friendship. It serves as a catalyst for self-discovery, challenging societal expectations, and reevaluating the nature of love and connection.