She’s the Man: A Modern Twist on Shakespearean Comedy

Shakespeare’s play “Twelfth Night,” infusing the classic tale with modern humor and high school drama. This article explores the film’s plot, characters, themes, and cultural impact, as well as its connections to Shakespeare’s original work.

Plot Summary

“She’s the Man” follows Viola Hastings (Amanda Bynes), a high school soccer player whose team gets cut at Cornwall High School. Desperate to continue playing soccer, Viola decides to disguise herself as her twin brother, Sebastian (James Kirk), who is secretly in London for two weeks. She enrolls at Illyria, Sebastian’s new boarding school, to join the boys’ soccer team.

Viola, now masquerading as Sebastian, must navigate the complexities of her new identity. She faces numerous challenges, including sharing a room with her new teammate, Duke Orsino (Channing Tatum), whom she quickly develops feelings for. Duke, however, is infatuated with Olivia Lennox (Laura Ramsey), who in turn falls for Viola’s alter ego, Sebastian. This love triangle creates a web of misunderstandings and comedic situations.

The climax of the film occurs during a soccer match between Illyria and Cornwall. The real Sebastian unexpectedly returns from London, leading to a series of revelations and confessions. In the end, Viola’s true identity is revealed, and she reconciles with Duke. The film concludes with a happy resolution, with each character finding their respective romantic partners.

Character Analysis

1. Viola Hastings/Sebastian Hastings: Viola, played by Amanda Bynes, is a determined and resourceful young woman. Her decision to disguise herself as her brother showcases her tenacity and love for soccer. Viola’s character highlights themes of gender equality and self-discovery, as she challenges societal norms and proves her abilities in a male-dominated sport.
2. Duke Orsino: Channing Tatum’s portrayal of Duke is both charming and vulnerable. As the captain of the Illyria soccer team, Duke initially appears as a typical jock but reveals a more sensitive side as he opens up to “Sebastian” about his insecurities and feelings for Olivia. Duke’s character development emphasizes the importance of authenticity and emotional openness.
3. Olivia Lennox: Laura Ramsey’s Olivia is intelligent and kind-hearted, though she becomes infatuated with the disguised Viola, creating a humorous misunderstanding. Olivia’s attraction to “Sebastian” highlights the theme of mistaken identity central to Shakespeare’s “Twelfth Night.”
4. Sebastian Hastings: The real Sebastian, played by James Kirk, is a secondary character whose absence drives the plot. His return complicates Viola’s masquerade and leads to the film’s resolution. Sebastian’s character underscores the theme of individuality, as he pursues his passion for music against his parents’ wishes.
5. Supporting Characters: The film features a colorful cast of supporting characters, including Paul (Jonathan Sadowski), Viola’s friend and confidante; Eunice (Emily Perkins), an awkward and eccentric classmate; and Coach Dinklage (Vinnie Jones), the tough yet fair soccer coach at Illyria. These characters add depth and humor to the story, enriching the overall narrative.

Themes and Motifs

1. Gender Identity and Equality: “She’s the Man” addresses gender identity and equality by challenging traditional gender roles. Viola’s disguise allows her to compete in a male-dominated sport, highlighting the arbitrary nature of gender-based restrictions. The film advocates for equal opportunities and emphasizes that talent and determination are not confined by gender.
2. Mistaken Identity and Disguise: Central to the plot is the theme of mistaken identity, a common motif in Shakespearean comedies. Viola’s disguise as Sebastian leads to a series of comedic misunderstandings and romantic entanglements. This motif underscores the fluidity of identity and the complexity of human relationships.
3. Love and Romantic Confusion: The film explores various facets of love, from infatuation to deep emotional connections. The love triangle between Viola, Duke, and Olivia mirrors the romantic confusion in “Twelfth Night.” The resolution of these relationships highlights the importance of honesty and self-acceptance in romantic endeavors.
4. Self-Discovery and Personal Growth: Throughout the film, Viola undergoes significant personal growth. Her journey of self-discovery involves embracing her true self and breaking free from societal expectations. This theme resonates with audiences, particularly young viewers navigating their own paths to self-identity.

Cultural Impact

“She’s the Man” has left a lasting cultural impact since its release. The film’s blend of humor, romance, and sports appeals to a broad audience, making it a popular choice for teens and young adults. Amanda Bynes’ performance as Viola received praise for her comedic timing and ability to portray both male and female personas convincingly.

The film also contributed to the ongoing conversation about gender roles and equality. By presenting a strong female protagonist who challenges societal norms, “She’s the Man” encourages viewers to question traditional gender expectations and advocate for equal opportunities.

Comparison to “Twelfth Night”

“She’s the Man” draws heavily from Shakespeare’s “Twelfth Night,” yet modernizes the story to suit a contemporary audience. Key similarities and differences between the two works include:

1. Plot and Characters: Both “She’s the Man” and “Twelfth Night” feature a female protagonist who disguises herself as a man, leading to romantic entanglements and mistaken identities. However, the settings differ, with “Twelfth Night” set in the fictional land of Illyria and “She’s the Man” in a modern high school.
2. Themes: The themes of mistaken identity, gender roles, and romantic confusion are central to both works. “She’s the Man” updates these themes to reflect modern sensibilities, emphasizing gender equality and self-discovery.
3. Humor and Tone: While “Twelfth Night” is a Shakespearean comedy with elements of wit and wordplay, “She’s the Man” employs slapstick humor and contemporary dialogue. The film maintains the lighthearted and comedic tone of the original play while appealing to a younger audience.
4. Resolution: Both works conclude with the revelation of the protagonist’s true identity and the resolution of romantic conflicts. “She’s the Man” stays true to the comedic and happy ending typical of Shakespearean comedies, ensuring a satisfying conclusion for its characters.

Conclusion

“She’s the Man” is a delightful and entertaining film that successfully adapts Shakespeare’s “Twelfth Night” for a modern audience. Its exploration of themes such as gender identity, self-discovery, and romantic confusion resonates with viewers of all ages. The film’s humor, engaging characters, and positive message about equality and authenticity contribute to its enduring popularity.