Noah Beck’s ‘Sidelined: Intercepted’ on Tubi: Does Drayton and Dallas’s College Romance Survive?
Fans worldwide have been captivated by the whirlwind romance of Drayton and Dallas since the first Sidelined film. Now, with the highly anticipated sequel, Sidelined: Intercepted, hitting Tubi, the biggest question on everyone’s mind is: Can this fan-favorite couple make it through the challenges of college, distance, and new temptations? Starring social media sensation Noah Beck as the charming jock Drayton and Siena Agudong as the spirited cheerleader Dallas, this follow-up promises even more drama, heartbreak, and perhaps, a bittersweet ending.
From High School Sweethearts to Long-Distance Lovers
Based on Tay Marley’s popular Wattpad novel, “The QB and Me,” the original Sidelined introduced us to the classic enemies-to-lovers trope, culminating in Drayton and Dallas finding love during their senior year. Their story resonated deeply with audiences, propelling the film to viral status and paving the way for a sequel. Sidelined: Intercepted picks up with our beloved duo navigating their dream colleges in California – Dallas pursuing dance at Cal Arts, and Drayton dominating as first-string quarterback for USC. While still happily in love, the vastness of Los Angeles, coupled with demanding schedules and new social circles, begins to test their bond in ways they never expected.
The Director’s Vision: Staying True to the Characters
Director Justin Wu revealed his unique approach to the sequel, especially since there was no existing book plot to follow for Intercepted. Instead of bowing to fan theories, Wu delved into audience feedback from platforms like TikTok and Letterboxd for the first film to understand what viewers truly cherished about the characters. “When it comes to the second movie, I wanted to capture what people loved about the first,” Wu explained, emphasizing his commitment to the characters’ authentic journey rather than simply delivering what fans might want. This dedication ensures a narrative that feels organic and emotionally resonant.
Relationship Roadblocks and Heartbreak
Despite their best intentions, Dallas and Drayton’s relationship faces significant hurdles. Busy academic and athletic schedules leave them with minimal in-person time, making intimacy a struggle. A series of unfortunate events, including missed dates, job interview mishaps, and Dallas missing Drayton’s crucial game where he suffers an ACL injury, steadily erodes their connection. Drayton’s injury forces him to the sidelines, adding immense pressure to both his football dreams and his relationship. The tension culminates in difficult conversations and realizations, hinting that their individual paths might be diverging.
New Temptations: Skylar and Charlotte
As Dallas and Drayton grapple with their challenges, two new faces enter their lives, each offering a different kind of connection. Dallas encounters Skylar (Charlie Gillespie), a musician and artist, during a coffee shop interview. Their shared artistic passions spark an undeniable chemistry, leading to Skylar casting Dallas in his music video. Even after Dallas and Drayton’s eventual split, Skylar’s longing glances and public serenades leave no doubt about his feelings for Dallas.
Meanwhile, Drayton finds a bond with Charlotte (Roan Curtis), his physical therapist. Their shared love for sports and her candid guidance on his injury draw them closer. However, despite Charlotte making a move, Drayton ultimately declines, prioritizing his recovery and perhaps still holding onto the hope of a future with Dallas.
The Bittersweet Ending: Right Person, Wrong Time?
In a heart-wrenching turn, Dallas and Drayton ultimately decide to go their separate ways. The breakup isn’t about new love interests or dramatic betrayals; it’s about their individual dreams and the overwhelming distance. Dallas’s poignant line, “You’re a dream but you’re not my only dream,” encapsulates their difficult decision. While they share one last intimate encounter and a moment of reflection on “right person, wrong time,” Dallas chooses her career opportunity in New York City over trying to force a long-distance relationship. The film concludes with Dallas cheering on Drayton at his triumphant return game, followed by a final, tender kiss before they walk in opposite directions, leaving fans to ponder what might have been.
Will There Be a ‘Sidelined 3’?
While no third film has been officially announced, Sidelined: Intercepted leaves the door tantalizingly open for Dallas and Drayton. Their parting words about “what’s meant to be will find a way” and the hint of their dreams aligning in the future suggest that their story might not be over. For now, fans can immerse themselves in the emotional rollercoaster that is Sidelined: Intercepted, streaming exclusively on Tubi. Don’t miss Noah Beck‘s compelling performance in this captivating sequel!
