Formulas for R-rated comedies rarely change. But what Blockers does best is also what makes it different. It may look like a generic, sleazy movie at first, but the usual mayhem is shown here from a new perspective.
The story sounds like American Pie at first glance: teenage seniors and best friends make a sex pact on prom night. Then there’s an inspiring twist. The parents (a team of Leslie Mann, John Cena and Ike Barinholtz) find out and decide to stop them.
Though the truly original bit that defines Blockers is the group of teenage friends, unlike most dirty comedies, are girls. The women run the show with spunk, heart and a cascade of wit and humour.
I applaud director Kay Cannon in her directorial debut for two great achievements. First, the movie is consistently funny in a way few modern studio films are. Second, she’s actively exploring the subgenre of sex comedies in an overdue way: with female eyes.
Her brilliant vision is showcasing healthy sexuality, resistance, and the conflict between them for teenage girls without being juvenile. Cannon’s refreshing attitude destroys every toxic stereotype the genre has endured for decades.
Bonus points are also deserved for her diverse representation in both the cast and of the characters themselves. The film has multiple genders, sexual preferences and several different races all featured in prominent roles.
Speaking of the cast, by far the movie’s greatest asset are Kathryn Newton, Geraldine Viswanathan and Gideon Adlon as the three starring teenage daughters Julie, Kayla and Sam. All three of them showing outstanding talent and comedic chops. The kids, however, are much better than some of the adults.
Blockers is the true nail in the coffin for both Cena and Barinholtz as film performers. While Cena’s sweetness and physicality earn him a few easy laughs, it’s insufficient proof he’s a credible actor. The men have a long list of disappointing comedies to their names, and none of them show their ability to play a character besides themselves.
Thankfully, Leslie Mann definitely can. She lands every gleeful punchline from start to finish with a wry smile. She wisely knows how to play each moment to elevate her motherly comedic stakes. Weirdly enough, her clear characterization and obvious confidence on screen make her “Mann-lier” than her male co-stars.
The women steal the show both in front of and behind the camera. When it’s all said and done, what matters most is the frequency of the film’s jokes. They come from left, right and centre in a never-ending barrage in a lustful laughing frenzy.
While many jokes aren’t forced to fit the raunchy themes or liberal style of the movie, there’s just as many that are. There’s also a few scenes that are graphic or mildly gross. If American Pie or last year’s Snatched made you squeamish, stay far, far away.
If you can stand a bit of debauchery, the sincere, empowering messages and morals make for a hilarious night out. It’s a must-see comedic shotgun that’s cocked, locked and ready to block.
Blockers
3 out of 4 stars
14A, 1hr 42mins. Comedy.
Directed by Kay Cannon.
Starring Leslie Mann, John Cena, Ike Barinholtz, Kathryn Newton, Geraldine Viswanathan and Gideon Adlon.
Now Playing at Film.Ca Cinemas, Cineplex Winston Churchill and Cineplex Oakville & VIP.
