Gene Stupnitsky’s directorial debut Good Boys is infectious in its silliness. Offering both heart and a lot of laughs, the comedy is very enjoyable.
Three sixth grade boys ditch school in order to save themselves from trouble. However, with teenage girls chasing them, a bag of drugs, and a party to get to, things are far from simple…
Co-written with Lee Eisenberg, Good Boys is the feature debut of director Gene Stupnitsky. Influences of earlier comedies are clear. Advertising for the film gives audience an indication of what to expect (from the guys who brought you Superbad, Bad Neighbours, and Sausage Party the poster promises). The film counts Seth Rogen among its producers. The premise combines elements of Superbad and Ferris Bueller’s Day Off. Yet thanks to the age of the protagonists, Good Boys offers an innocence which is endearing.
The protagonists are well drawn, each distinct in personality but with plenty of chemistry. The filmmakers are wise to keep focus on these three, keeping older characters on the periphery. The camaraderie between the trio is very believable. Despite the focus on humour, there is a level of sincerity present. The film focuses on an age where there are a lot of changes. Good Boys explores this in a way that feels earnest but not overwrought.
The jokes hit the mark almost every time. The combination of silly jokes, age-sensitive references, and crude humour is a winning combination. The dialogue is great; there are a lot of laughs to be had here. The physical comedy is also very good. All three boys deliver great performances. Jacob Tremblay and Brady Noon are most convincing in their roles. But it is Keith L. Williams who really shines as Lucas; hopefully he will have a bright future.
At ninety minutes, the film does not overstay its welcome. Well paced and a lot of fun, Good Boys will put a smile on viewers’ faces.
I Heart The Talkies 