Upgraded

Ana is an eager young intern trying to climb into the art world while winning over her exacting boss, Claire. On a work trip she gets upgraded to first class and meets William, a charming stranger whose ease and confidence pull her into a more glamorous orbit. To impress him and accelerate her own prospects, Ana pretends to be Claire, a small falsehood that opens doors, connections and a romantic spark. As her invented persona gains momentum the stakes rise, and she has to decide how to handle the gap between who she is and who she pretends to be, without ruining what she cares about.

Directed by Carlson Young, Upgraded was created by Justin Matthews, Christine Lenig and Luke Spencer Roberts and released in 2024. The film stars Camila Mendes as Ana, alongside Archie Renaux, Marisa Tomei, Lena Olin and Anthony Stewart Head, and it leans into glossy rom-com style and art world settings.

As of its release Upgraded wasn’t a major awards contender in the 2024 season. It did, however, generate discussion around the cast performances and the movie’s sleek production values, even if it didn’t collect high-profile nominations or trophies.

Viewers responded warmly, with an average rating around 7.2 out of 10 from crowd votes, and many appreciated the chemistry between the leads. The film plays with themes of ambition, identity and social performance, using fashion and gallery scenes to question how appearances can open doors, and what you give up to keep a lie going. It lands as an entertaining romantic comedy that balances levity with the awkward realities of trying to reinvent yourself.