Lydia Pentz shines as Anna Sinclair, a struggling artist caught between worlds in Park Avenue Girls Don't Play Nice. Anna has been forced into a double life: pretending to be high society after losing her scholarship when rival Lila stole her painting and claimed it as her own. Determined to escape her abusive parents-who heartlessly sell her artwork and pocket the money-Anna sees wealthy Preston (Lila's brother) as her possible way out.
But things take a turn when Brooks, played by newcomer Griffin Winter, enters the picture. Unlike Preston, Brooks suspects Anna's story is not all it seems. His pull toward her is undeniable, even as Lila plots to keep him for herself. What follows is a compelling triangle of ambition, deception, and unexpected affection, with Lila weaving her devilish schemes to tear Anna and Brooks apart.
One of the strongest aspects of this vertical is that it avoids the overdone "mean girl fluff." Yes, Lila is deliciously conniving, but the script resists relying solely on bullying tropes, making the drama feel sharper and more grounded. Lydia Pentz is excellent in the role of Anna, bringing heart, vulnerability, and strength to a character desperate for freedom.
And then there's Griffin Winter-what a discovery. His Brooks is magnetic, and he has the makings of a true leading man. I sincerely hope this won't be the last we see of him. (Side note: I found his Don Quixote and Sancho Panza tattoo endearing, especially having lived in Spain myself-it added a charming layer of personality beyond the screen.)
The only real drawback is ReelShort's infamous continuity issues. A jacket appearing and disappearing between cuts, or Nero arriving in one suit only to be in another seconds later-these details may seem minor, but they break immersion. Still, the story and performances carried the show.
Overall, Park Avenue Girls Don't Play Nice is an engaging vertical with strong acting, a refreshing angle on the socialite storyline, and a standout debut from Griffin Winter.
