MISMATCHED

Style influencer, ballet dancer, out-and-proud president of his school’s gay-straight alliance, and social expert: Is there anything Evan Horowitz can’t do?

In this contemporary retelling of Jane Austen’s Emma, white Jewish Evan is ending junior year determined to generously share his wisdom with his ragtag group of classmates. Most in need is Natalia, the naïve new girl whom Evan immediately takes on as a makeover-and-matchmaking project. Various pairings ensue, including secret dating, Rainbow Prom drama, and an ill-advised crush. Evan’s lifelong best friend is the sensible and steady Brazilian American Davi, who frequently shuts down his schemes and notions. The pair are so comfortable together that the first sparks of friendship turning to romance take them both by surprise. Camlin draws as much on Clueless as they do on the original novel, closely following the expected plot beats, which, if not exactly innovative, will be agreeable to fans of the film. Evan’s characterization is easily the star of the show; he’s a worthy Emma Woodhouse analogue whose sky-high confidence and charm don’t waver despite his myriad flaws. The less well-developed supporting cast members are allowed fun moments. There’s a wholesome simplicity to Zeferino’s art, with its bright pastel colors and fluid linework lending a cheerful and welcoming aesthetic to the people and places of the Queens setting and humor to the characters’ interactions.

A pleasant and amusing retelling.