Theatrical Release Year: 2003
DVD Release Year: 2005
Director: Luke Greenfield
Writers: David Wagner & Brent Goldberg
Starring: Elisha Cuthbert, Emile Hirsch, Timothy Olyphant, James Remar, Chris Marquette, Paul Dano, Amanda Swisten, Sung Hi Lee
Length: 109 minutes
Studio: Universal Studios
MPAA Rating:


Matthew Kidman (Emile Hirsch) is in his senior year in high school, carefully following a life’s blueprint that includes being president of the Student Government, chair of a charitable fund for a foreign exchange student, and the front runner for a coveted Ivy League scholarship. Everything is going as planned for a future on the path to fulfilling his dream of becoming the President of the United States. That is, until he meets The Girl Next Door…
When the dreamily beautiful Danielle (Elisha Cuthbert) moves in next door, Matthew’s world goes every which way, except seemingly the right way. Danielle herself is a newly retired porn star, at the ripe old age of 19, and decidedly takes it upon herself to teach Matthew how to live his life to the fullest. This results in Matthew falling in love with her. Yet, when he discovers her past he unwittingly drives her back into the hands of her porn producer Kelly (Timothy Olyphant).

From there, the answer to the iconic question of “Is the juice worth the squeeze?” must be answered.

Special Features

One of the best things about Special Features is the inclusion of deleted clips. Unfortunately, because this is the Unrated version, most of the clips are in the movie. Although the “original” ending is included, it became obviously apparent to me that the theatrical ending is in fact the better concluding scene for the film.

There is, however, a hidden gem in the form of The Eli Experience. This is a short film featuring Chris Marquette in his role as Matthew’s best friend Eli Brooks, who aspires to be a film director. The short takes Eli to the REAL Adult Film Convention, where he considers himself a star, and with the help of WWE Wrestler Matthew “Horshu” Wiese (Mule in the film) and Mora Dominguez, stages The Eli Experience with real life convention goers. So what exactly is it? Three words: bait and switch.

While the movie itself would normally garner a full fiver for its superior storyline in being both a drama and comedy… the emptiness of this DVD’s Special Features is hugely distressing.

Popcorn’s Rating:

To show just how far love can launch you to new heights, we recommend Orbit-Jumbo Variety Pack as the craziest snack you can have while watching this movie.

For a movie that continually asks if the juice is worth the squeeze, the obvious recommended beverage is Tropicana Orange Juice.

Popularity: 30% [?]