The new R-rated movie “21 and Over” is a hilarious comedy directed by Jon Lucas and Scott Moore, writers of “The Hangover” and “The Hangover Part II.” “21 and Over” follows a predictable problematic adventure of three friends in a stereotypical college atmosphere.
Former high school best friends Miller (Miles Teller, “Project X”) and Casey (Skylar Astin, “Pitch Perfect”), plan to surprise their friend Jeff Chang (Justin Chon, “The Twilight Saga: Breaking Dawn Part 1”) to celebrate his 21st birthday at his prestigious college. After Chang declines his friends’ plan to celebrate due to his father stressing the importance of his medical interview that following morning, convincing words and forceful behavior by Miller trap Chang into agreeing to the plans. The friends agree to go to one bar to have a few drinks, but before the friends are even aware of it, Chang is passed out and unable to direct them back to his house.
As they begin their journey to find someone who knows where Chang lives, they find themselves caught in tough situations to get out of, all while dragging around their unconscious friend. Drunken college students, a drugged man in a Native American headdress, physical altercations, a kidnapping, torture and embarrassment by an angered Latina sorority and the participation of a nine floor drinking game are just a few of the situations they found themselves caught in.
Every time they think they are close to finding Chang’s address, they are diverted and reach another dead end. As the tension grows, Miller and Casey begin to open up to each other and express secrets they have been hiding, realizing their friendship had grown apart. After Chang suddenly awakens, he is out of control and runs the streets of the college town before getting himself arrested.
Miller and Casey are presented with an even bigger problem than finding Chang’s house now: they need to find him. Throughout all the struggles and obstacles that the friends face, they learn important lessons, growing not only as friends, but also as individuals.
“21 and Over” is a lighthearted, fun film for the younger audience to sit back and relax while watching. It does, however, have more serious topics incorporated into the story. The acting was above average, able to portray typical college students, with varying moments throughout the film both serious and comical. Although this film is playful, it is extremely typical. Stereotypes of the smart Asian, the partying white teenage male, the hot sorority girl and the crazy Latinas are exaggerated and expected. This film does not call for much attention from audience members.
