Tubi’s latest original, Sidelined: The QB and Me, directed by Justin Wu, delivers an endearing YA rom-com adaptation of Tay Marley’s beloved Wattpad novel, The QB Bad Boy and Me. Brimming with themes of love, ambition, and self-discovery, the film encapsulates the emotional highs and lows of youth while staying true to its roots as a fan-favorite story.
At the heart of the story is Dallas (Siena Agudong), a driven dancer striving to follow in her late mother’s footsteps by earning a coveted spot at Cal Tech. Her focused world takes an unexpected detour when she crosses paths with Drayton (Noah Beck), a self-absorbed quarterback with a complicated backstory. The unlikely duo embarks on a journey filled with romantic tension, personal growth, and a few surprises along the way.
Photo by Tashfina Rahman
Director Justin Wu’s commitment to preserving the essence of Marley’s original work is evident in every frame. “It was important to understand the backstory and Tay’s intentions,” Wu explained. “While we made changes here and there, the spirit of the novel remains intact so fans can recognize key scenes while discovering something fresh.”
Wu’s experience directing romance and YA narratives shines throughout the film. Drawing inspiration from iconic rom-coms like 10 Things I Hate About You and Richard Linklater’s Before trilogy, Wu masterfully balances humor, drama, and heartfelt emotion. His approach to creating a film that resonates with both fans of the book and newcomers involved deep collaboration with the screenwriters and cast to ensure authenticity and depth.
The performances are equally integral to the film’s charm. Siena Agudong embodies Dallas with sincerity and dedication. Her portrayal of a dancer chasing her dreams is both relatable and inspiring, bolstered by her commitment to the role. “I took dance classes growing up, but nothing like ballet,” she shared. Co-star Drew Ray Tanner, who plays Coach Hale, was quick to praise her work ethic: “She absolutely killed it—ballet is on another level.”
Tanner himself adds humor and wisdom to the narrative, portraying a supportive yet straightforward mentor figure. Reflecting on his role, Tanner shared a moment of personal resonance: “There’s a line where Coach Hale tells Dallas to be present and enjoy being 18 while she’s 18—a message that resonates deeply.”
Noah Beck, in his breakout role as Drayton, brings an understated vulnerability to the character, showcasing his growth throughout the film. Wu’s direction was pivotal in guiding Beck’s performance. “We had heavy rehearsals and created a safe environment for him to explore and shine,” Wu explained. Beck’s athletic background as a semi-professional soccer player added authenticity to the football scenes, grounding his character in realism.
Deborah Cox rounds out the cast with her graceful portrayal of the wise and supportive dance teacher. Wu praised Cox’s ability to draw from her own legendary career, adding layers of depth and warmth to her character. “She brings so much wisdom and grace,” he remarked.
Fans of Marley’s novel will be delighted by the inclusion of iconic moments, such as Dallas’s memorable introduction to Drayton’s futon and pivotal scenes set in California. Wu’s ability to blend nostalgia with originality ensures these moments feel fresh while honoring their roots.
The film also explores themes of resilience, the courage to pursue one’s passions, and the value of connection, making it a deeply relatable story for audiences of all ages.
With its dynamic cast, thoughtful direction, and engaging narrative, Sidelined: The QB and Me is more than just a YA rom-com. It’s a celebration of love, ambition, and self-discovery. As Siena Agudong aptly suggests, the film is perfect for a Friday night with friends or a cozy family movie night.
Whether you’re a longtime fan of Tay Marley’s work or simply looking for a heartfelt story to stream, this Tubi original delivers in every way. Don’t miss the chance to experience the magic of Sidelined: The QB and Me—a film that will leave you smiling, inspired, and perhaps even a little teary-eyed.