A highly entertaining coming of age comedy

Rating: 8/10 (3 June 2008)

Those unfamiliar with this film may draw comparisons to the "American Pie" series but that would be inaccurate. This is a film that, despite the immature exterior, actually has some substance. Also, it's way funnier than those films and doesn't rely on cheap titillation for its appeal.
The script is awash in expletives, like Kevin Smith with Tourette's. However, behind the pervasive crudeness there's an inventive story that will keep you entertained with all of the twists and turns that it throws at you. There's even an actual point to the story, neatly wrapped up in the closing scene. Not your usual sex comedy, to be sure.
Jonah Hill and Michael Cera have excellent chemistry together and can also carry the story on their own when called upon. Also particularly memorable are the police officers played by Seth Rogen and Bill Hader. There are no mis-steps in casting, which is a 'make it or break it' area for any comedy.
I can't recall much that was noteworthy about Greg Mottola's direction but there were a few nice touches. The soundtrack, on the other hand, is a real high point. It's filled to the brim with vintage funk and rock, well-chosen throughout.
But the most important thing about this film is that it's often hilarious. That a teen-oriented comedy would appeal so much to an adult like me is something that I didn't foresee. Chalk that up to the great performances and inventive script.