"Tag" Movie Review
Do you still keep in contact with your childhood friends? It's rare, I know. But imagine this: you and your small group of friends regroup during the month of May to continue playing a game of Tag that's been going on for 30 years. Sounds pretty crazy, right? Well, one group of friends actually did just that and they're still going strong today. This film is their story, as ridiculous and insane as it seems.
Tag is an adult comedy, first and foremost. It is definitely not for kids or for people that can't handle raunchy jokes. With that in mind, it is secondly a "guy" film. While that term bugs me, it's the best way to describe it. Now, let's get to the actual review. The film focuses on five friends who have been playing Tag for 30 years. One friend, Jerry, has never been tagged in all that time. The other four band together, deciding that this is the year that Jerry gets what's coming to him.
Sure, the plot's simple but when it comes to raunch comedies, it's best not to overcomplicate things. I will say that the film did surprise me with a couple of twists. Usually comedies are predictable but the writing here was rather skillful.
The acting and chemistry among the five friends was top-notch. It almost felt like these guys actually were lifelong friends and that the film was just as fun for them as it was for me. Jeremy Renner stole the spotlight by far but Ed Helms and Jon Hamm were both exceptional as well. Rashida Jones almost had no real reason to be in the film except as a distraction for two of the guys. That did play into the story somewhat but her character really was not necessary at all, however it was nice to see her in something outside of TV shows. Hannibal Buress had some of the best moments in the film so definitely keep an eye out for him.
In conclusion, Tag was no Game Night by any means but it was still highly entertaining and a good time. The comedy isn't for everybody but it will surely put smiles on the faces of those that do enjoy the genre. I give the film a 3 out of 4.
© 2018 Nathan Jasper