The Kissing Booth (2018) is a teen romantic comedy directed by Vince Marcello, based on the 2012 novel by Beth Reekles. The film stars Joey King, Jacob Elordi, and Joel Courtney, and became a viral hit on Netflix, leading to a trilogy of films.
Plot Overview
Elle Evans (Joey King) and Lee Flynn (Joel Courtney) have been best friends since childhood, bound by a set of friendship rules—including one that forbids Elle from dating Lee’s older brother, Noah (Jacob Elordi).
When Elle and Lee organize a kissing booth for their school fundraiser, Elle unexpectedly finds herself kissing Noah, igniting a secret romance that threatens her friendship with Lee. As Elle navigates high school drama, love, and loyalty, she must decide whether to follow the rules or follow her heart.
Why It Stands Out
- Teen Romance & Drama: The film captures the excitement and complications of young love.
- Chemistry Between Leads: Joey King and Jacob Elordi’s on-screen dynamic fueled fan enthusiasm.
- Feel-Good Energy: A lighthearted, fun watch with plenty of high school antics.
Reception & Legacy
Released on May 11, 2018, The Kissing Booth was a commercial success despite mixed reviews from critics, who found its storyline predictable. However, it resonated with audiences, leading to two sequels:
- The Kissing Booth 2 (2020)
- The Kissing Booth 3 (2021)
The trilogy remains popular among fans of teen romance films and Netflix originals.