Written by Luke Barnes
Summary
A young man, played by Colin Hanks, has his college/university transcripts mixed up and so has to go to great lengths to try and get into his preferred institution.
Honestly, I think Hanks is the worst part about this film. He is playing the straight man throughout against everyone else’s craziness but he plays it a little too well and ends up coming across as stiff as a board. Jack Black, Catherine O’ Hara And John Lithgow all fare far better as his dysfunctional family, with Black particularly reminding me just how good he can be in the right role.
There is something so 90s about this film despite it coming out in the early noughties, it is very much of the Jackass generation and I think that is a huge part of why it works. Despite all of the zaniness going on at its heart is a story about a family that loves each other and I think it is this emotional centre that helps this film to be good.
In terms of the humour the film made me laugh a few times but was probably more hit than miss.
Overall, a fun breezy comedy film with a great turn from Black.
Pros.
Black
O’ Hara
The heart
The ending
Cons.
Most of the jokes don’t land
Hanks
If you enjoyed this review, then please head over to my Patreon to support me, I offer personalized shoutouts, the ability for you to pick what I review next and full access to my Patreon exclusive game reviews. Check it out!
Another Millennial Reviewer 