Thescreescore – Even two decades later, the impact of Blake Lively’s audition for The Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants still resonates with director Ken Kwapis. The film, a coming-of-age classic based on Anne Brashares’ bestselling novels, followed four inseparable friends—Tibby, Lena, Carmen, and Bridget—as they navigate life’s complexities while sharing a pair of magically fitting jeans. Kwapis, in a recent interview with thescreescore.com, recalled Lively’s remarkable performance, especially considering her inexperience. "Blake came in without anything on her resume," he stated, "She was 16, but she had this intuitive connection to Bridget. She was perfect."
The role presented a significant challenge: Bridget was grappling with the recent suicide of her mother. "She had some tough stuff to pull off," Kwapis explained, "playing a character dealing with such weighty issues, and she did it beautifully. It was her first major emotional role." The director also addressed rumors of alternative casting choices, including Hilary Duff, Olivia Wilde, Mischa Barton, and Kristin Kreuk. However, he emphasized that the final cast—Lively alongside Alexis Bledel, Amber Tamblyn, and America Ferrera—was the perfect fit, creating an authentic portrayal of lifelong friendship despite limited shared screen time.
The film’s success, particularly among millennial women, stemmed from its relatable storylines. While Bridget’s grief was central, the struggles faced by the other characters—Carmen’s racial prejudice, Lena’s shyness, and Tibby’s newfound appreciation for life—added depth and resonance. Bridget’s journey, marked by reckless behavior and a forbidden romance, served as a powerful anchor for the film, highlighting the complexities of teenage grief. Lively’s portrayal of this nuanced character, in her first major role, was nothing short of exceptional.
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Twenty years on, The Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants remains a cultural touchstone, a testament to the power of female friendship and the enduring appeal of Kwapis’ vision. The film’s success is a tribute to the director’s keen eye for talent and the remarkable performances of its four leads, a group who remain friends to this day.
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