Better Nate Than Ever drops on Disney+ TODAY! Based on the popular book,  the film tells the story of Nate Foster. Nate struggles to land roles in his middle school’s drama productions while also fantasizing about becoming a Broadway star. He and his bestie sneak away to NYC to audition for Lilo & Stitch the musical and while there Nate’s personal journey of self-acceptance, dreams, and more transpire.

While on the surface it seems the film is fluffy, there is so much depth, nuance, and fantastic writing. The film doesn’t outright say that Nate is part of the LGBTQ+ community, however, there are tons of hints from lines the father says, to even the musical he’s auditioning for. Writer/Director Tim Federle purposely chose Lilo & Stitch because not only is it a Disney fan favorite, but because it’s the story of an alien!

“[Lilo & Stitch] is the story of an alien finding his way in the world. And so, the musical Nate’s auditioning for represents the journey he’s on where he does not feel like the other humans in his family or at his school. And what I’ve learned over the years is if you get enough outcasts together, you’re no longer an outcast; you’re actually a club.”

INTERVIEW WITH BETTER NATE THAN EVER STARS, REUBY WOOD & ARIA BROOKS

I had a chance to sit down and talk with the stars of Better Nate Than Ever, Reuby Wood, and Aria Brooks. Who are both so proud of being a part of this film. Aria shares that she had a blast while filming this movie and there was never a dull moment on set. Reuby feels this is a very important story to tell right now.

“It’s a movie about being yourself and finding who you are. [As well as], finding people who will support you. I was lucky enough to grow up in a family and group of people who support me for who I [am], but there’s a lot of people and kids, specifically, out there who aren’t able to express themselves. And I hope that watching this movie inspires all those people out there that there is someone somewhere in the world that loves them for you they are.”

If you’ve ever felt like you don’t belong. If you’ve ever felt like an alien in your own world or if you know someone who does make sure to watch Better Nate Than Ever Now Streaming on Disney+!

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