21 & Over: A Hangover-esque Romp

A Night of Epic Proportions (and Epic Fails)

Picture this: a medical school interview looming, a 21st birthday on the horizon, and three friends whose idea of responsible behavior involves questionable decisions and copious amounts of alcohol. That's the recipe for "21 & Over," a comedy directed by Jon Lucas and Scott Moore, and it's a wild ride that will either leave you in stitches or nursing a hangover (metaphorically, hopefully!).

Synopsis: When Good Intentions Go Awry

Jeff Chang, a promising medical student, decides to celebrate turning 21 with his two best buddies. What starts as a fairly standard birthday bash quickly devolves into an alcohol-fueled escapade featuring questionable decisions, a missing Jeff, and a whole lot of regrettable moments. Let's just say, their attempts at a responsible night out are about as successful as a goldfish trying to fly a plane.

Technical Prowess: A Smooth Operator (Sometimes)

The film's direction is pretty slick, expertly capturing the chaotic energy of the night. The cinematography manages to maintain a fun, vibrant aesthetic even amidst the drunken shenanigans. The soundtrack is a perfectly curated mix of upbeat tunes that amplify the film’s frenetic energy, akin to a caffeinated squirrel on a sugar rush. However, the editing occasionally feels a little too frantic, like trying to catch a greased pig.

Stellar Performances (or, Perfectly Cast Chaos)

Miles Teller and Justin Chon share excellent chemistry as the two best friends, delivering consistently hilarious performances that are both relatable and over-the-top. Jonathan Keltz provides solid support as the third musketeer, adding to the chaotic energy. It's a testament to the casting that even in their most ridiculous moments, their performances remain grounded.

Themes of Friendship, (Ir)responsibility and the Perils of a Hangover

At its core, "21 & Over" is a comedy about friendship, albeit a rather irresponsible one. It explores the sometimes hazy line between fun and mayhem, highlighting the consequences of poor choices (and excessive drinking). There’s a poignant undercurrent of loyalty that resonates strongly, even amidst all the silliness. It's a testament to the fact that friendship can often survive even the most epic debacles. It’s like a friendship-shaped rollercoaster, complete with both exhilarating highs and terrifying lows.

Verdict: A Hilarious Hangover (but Maybe Stick to One)

"21 & Over" is a raucous comedy, albeit not particularly groundbreaking. While the humor is consistently funny, it occasionally relies a little too heavily on slapstick. However, the charming performances and the overall high energy more than compensate for its predictability. While not for the faint of heart (or those sensitive to excessive alcohol-related antics), it’s a fun and energetic romp that’s well worth a watch for fans of raunchy comedies.

Rating: 6.5/10 (it's a solid B, not an A+)

Recommended for: Fans of comedies like "The Hangover," those who enjoy a good laugh at the expense of irresponsible behavior, and anyone who has ever experienced the joys (and pains) of a truly epic night out.

In conclusion, "21 & Over" is like that one friend who's always up for a crazy night. A little rough around the edges, yes, but undeniably entertaining. Just remember to hydrate. Seriously.

Note : 5/5

Publié le 15 Dec 2024