Blockers takes viewers on a ridiculous roller coaster ride as three parents stumble upon their high school daughter’s pact to each lose their virginity at prom. The parents, played by Leslie Mann, Ike Barinholtz and John Cena, rattled by the revelation, embark on a convert one night operation consisting of beer chugging and wild after parties.
This comedy is somewhat reminiscent of a coming of age tale in which the three young women and their parents discover the true importance of friendship and family. It shares a story of how young women are succeeding in a man’s world on their own terms, supported by well-meaning parents, “nice” boys and a female friendship group tackling adulthood together.
Despite a recurring element of bodily fluid-related humour, there are definitely laugh out loud moments, but what makes the film great is the charisma of characters such as The Cook (played by Miles Robbins) and Broad City’s Hannibal Buress. As charming as it is daring, Director Kay Cannon manages to provide audiences with a strong, mostly female cast, showcasing some refreshing diversity of the quintessential girl gang, proving that women can be funny too, and can play more than the family killjoy.
Admittedly there are some cringe moments, especially towards the end of the film when the plot morphs into a raunchy discussion of sex, drugs and relationships. However, there is something about the combination of heart felt moments and absurd humour that declares this film a classic in its own right. Amidst the at times over the top portrayal of parent-daughter relationships, it is undeniably this season’s comedy of choice.
Readers also enjoyed reading this review of teenage drama Lady Bird.
