This Time Around Poster

This Time Around 2003

★ 5.836 votes120 min📅 2003-06-22

Eleven years after a heartbreaking high-school humiliation, ambitious PR executive Mel returns to her hometown to relive the past—this time as the polished professional she's become.

Director: Douglas Barr

Cast

Carly Pope
Carly Pope
Melissa 'Mel' Rochester
Brian Austin Green
Brian Austin Green
Drew Hesler
Sara Rue
Sara Rue
Gabby Castellani
Gina Tognoni
Gina Tognoni
Cara Cabot
Sherry Miller
Sherry Miller
Mary Ann McNally
David Lipper
David Lipper
Martin
Adam Greydon Reid
Adam Greydon Reid
Jeff Blue
Matthew Edison
Matthew Edison
Kevin
Megan Park
Megan Park
Young Cara Cabot
Amanda Brugel
Amanda Brugel
Abby

Frequently Asked Questions

What is This Time Around (2003) about?

The film follows Mel, a confident PR executive who returns to her hometown and reunites with her former best friend. When her new assignment forces her to work with the high school bully who once humiliated her, she must navigate old wounds and rediscover her own worth. It's a story of growth, friendship, and the unexpected paths to redemption.

Who directed This Time Around?

Douglas Barr is at the helm of this 2003 romantic comedy, bringing a blend of humor and heart to the project.

Who stars in This Time Around?

Carly Pope leads the cast as Mel, joined by Brian Austin Green as Drew, Sara Rue as Gabby, Gina Tognoni, and David Lipper.

Is This Time Around (2003) worth watching?

With its breezy pacing, engaging performances, and relatable themes of nostalgia and growth, This Time Around offers a satisfying escape for fans of lighthearted rom-coms. While not a modern classic, it's a charming throwback that delivers laughs and a dose of emotional warmth.

How long is This Time Around?

This Time Around has a runtime of 120 minutes, perfect for a cozy movie night in.

About This Time Around (2003) — A nostalgic romantic comedy about second chances

Eleven years after a heartbreaking high-school humiliation, ambitious PR executive Mel returns to her hometown to relive the past—this time as the polished professional she's become. Reunited with her former best friend Gabby, now a stylish restaurateur, Mel must confront the boy who once shattered her confidence, Drew, now a rising chef with a publicist of his own. Directed by Douglas Barr, this 2003 romantic comedy blends sharp wit with nostalgic charm, exploring themes of second chances, redemption, and the power of reinvention. With snappy dialogue and a breezy Los Angeles setting, This Time Around delivers a feel-good escape that's equal parts laugh-out-loud and quietly moving.

Set against the sun-soaked backdrop of California, the film navigates the messy collision of old wounds and new beginnings, proving that life's most defining moments aren't always the ones we remember—sometimes they're the ones we get to rewrite. Carly Pope anchors the story with her charismatic performance as Mel, while Brian Austin Green and Sara Rue bring depth to their evolved roles, grounding the lighter moments in sincere emotion. It's a story for anyone who's ever wished they could fast-forward through a cringe-worthy chapter—and discovered the courage to turn it into a comeback.

This Time Around (2003) is a heartfelt romantic comedy directed by Douglas Barr, starring Carly Pope, Brian Austin Green, and Sara Rue.