four stars

Reviewed by Daniel E. Jennis

2008 may be the year of the arrested development comedy, but rarely do films explore the relationship between adults and children who face shockingly similar maturation problems. “Role Models”, a well made and highly satisfying romp, is about two energy drink promoters, one jaded beyond belief (Paul Rudd) and the other a hopeless womanizer (Seann William Scott), who find themselves in dire legal trouble after attempting to drive away with their truck while it is in the process of being towed.

Faced with a choice between going to prison and volunteering at a camp for lonely children, the two decide that they would rather work with youths than get assaulted by hardened convicts. Of course, community service turns out to be more than the two bargained for, as each is assigned to a rather crazy child. Danny, the poor guy who hates his life, gets paired up with Augie (Christopher Mintz-Plasse), a fantasy loving teenager who fights imaginary battles with fairies and warlords. Wheeler, the disgusting party animal, is forced to mentor Ronnie (Bobb’e J. Thompson), a foul mouthed little kid who shares Wheeler’s love for objectifying women.

Of course, this film comes with a moralizing message, and the four main characters each grow from having met each other despite their initial apprehension at being paired together. Fortunately, this film rises above its tired premise, not only because of the really adult humor, but also because of the grittiness of the predicaments in which the characters find themselves.

For example, Augie is obviously not the coolest kid in the world. But his parents make matters a lot worse by continually mocking him for having weird interests and not having friends. While at dinner with the family, the unassuming Danny dryly remarks that life would be a lot easier for the poor child if his parents stopped humiliating him. This is a moment of pure honesty. Danny is not emotionally attached to Augie; he is just angered that a human being would be treated in this manner. Scenes like these make the film’s moral message extremely palpable.

Of course, this film is praiseworthy first and foremost for being hysterical in a really different way. “Role Models” largely avoids relying upon absurd and zany characters or overusing immature physical humor. The comedy is dry and very intelligent, carried by Rudd’s sardonic charm and his angry banter with William Scott. The jokes fly fast and often occur during moments of falling action. Close attention is required, especially when running gags are employed to great effect. “Role Models” represents adult comedy taken seriously, and this central paradox delivers an immensely satisfying viewing experience.