Better Nate Than Ever
13-year-old Nate Foster has big Broadway dreams but there’s only one problem — he can’t even land a part in the school play. When his parents leave town, Nate and his best friend Libby sneak off to the Big Apple for a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to prove everyone wrong. A chance encounter with Nate’s long-lost Aunt Heidi turns his journey upside-down, and together they must learn that life’s greatest adventures are only as big as your dreams.
Critics Sentiment
Nate sings No One Gets Left Behind and gives remarkable performance
Nate rips his pants during knee dancing and humiliates himself
The film's biggest swing comes from Nate's humiliating pants-ripping audition disaster to learning he got a callback, representing the unpredictable nature of pursuing dreams.
The film follows a classic underdog arc that resonates strongly with theater kids and families, building from modest beginnings through setbacks to an inspiring climax. Critics consistently praised Rueby Wood's enthusiastic performance and the authentic portrayal of theater kid struggles, though some noted the resolution felt predictably Disney-esque. The sentiment peaks during Nate's final audition performance, where his authenticity and determination shine through.
Full cast
Showing 20 of 25
Rueby Wood
Nate Foster
Lisa Kudrow
Aunt Heidi
Joshua Bassett
Anthony Foster
Aria Brooks
Libby
Norbert Leo Butz
Rex
Michelle Federer
Sherrie
Finn Egan-Liang
Jimmy Madison
Pierson Salvador
Tall Middle Schooler
Mandy Gonzalez
Mrs. Wadsworth
Jimmy Ray Bennett
Fantasy Audition Greeter
Brandon Espinoza
Local Guy
Kim Rios Lin
Stage Mom
Kylie Kuioka
Stage Daughter
Krystina Alabado
Assistant Casting Director
Brooks Ashmanskas
Casting Director
Tamika Lawrence
Drugstore Employee
Priscilla Lopez
Serious Play Casting Director
George Benson
George Benson
Keola Simpson
Garret Kekoa
Anaseini Katoa
Director
Crew
Write a Review
Rate each story beat:
