Lessons in Love and Hate

starring: KATELYN ROSE & BENJAMIN ARMSTRONG

When an unpopular nerd is assigned to tutor her school's wealthy new bad boy, it's hate at-first-sight. But unexpected attraction blooms despite their differences. As Peyton gets a glimpse into Chase's privileged-but-soulless world, she finds an opportunity to finally let loose. Chase, meanwhile, finds himself wanting to prove to Peyton he's more than just a spoiled rich kid.

REVIEW

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Ah a YA vertical with something to say - well done writer director @kristensreality and @app.shorts

We don't need much as vertical viewers but a little more context makes all the difference

Peyton needs to tutor to help pay tuition to keep her autistic younger brother in private school

And Chase has a bad reputation because he got expelled for selling drugs from his last school and is struggling academically - but there may be more than meets the eye here

And neither character is perfect, Peyton is scared to let anyone in and risk imperfection. Also totally identified with her discomfort at parties. Meanwhile Chase tends to weaken when in front of his so called friends

Slight issue as @kkatelyn_rose is gorgeous, just sticking glasses on her does not make her a nerd, but she sells the body language of someone confident academically but not socially.

And @ben.armstrongg does another good YA turn as Chase, again given more to work with here thanks to the script

The revenge porn storyline is well done and consequences shown. Big leap forward to see a vertical tackle something like this.

@morganfranzz and that 🍭 um terrifying

@spencercpalmer is great as the mega annoying 'friend' who isn't really a friend at all

And big brother Trey @tom_sys is an interesting addition, thankfully doing the right thing in the end

@aviswrentmore brings the much needed warmth as Peyton's mum, do wish she hasn't believed the revenge porn bit though, think she would have let Peyton explain. Would have like that bit done a little differently.

Also some cool little details, like some scene transitions with people walking by - awesome to see Verticals experiment in this way

Very enjoyable on Shorts.

💖 Top swoonworthy moment:

I do love a well written story where we have character development and motivation. Peyton and Chase both misjudge each other, neither is perfect, and both have their hang ups and weaknesses to get over. That's what makes it so special. And yes we all swoon when Chase is kind to Henry.

🦹🏼‍♂️ Top villain award:

Audrey is that female villain. But armed with a lollipop. Her dental bill is going to be huge. Also WELL DONE for tackling a massive issue like revenge porn - this is a vertical with some substance.

😂 Comedy gold:

It is a little hard to buy Katelyn Rose as the outsider, she is stunning.

🎺 Unsung hero:

A few - but overall I will say Peyton's family for welcoming everyone to their table at the end. They provide the warmth that Chase and his brother have been missing in their life. Also Henry and his awesome solar models.

✍🏼 DETAILS

Director: Kristen Brancaccio | 2026

Available on Shorts