Talking Pictures

Rich Bonaduce reviews “Youth in Revolt”

Rich’s Quickie: If you’ve had enough of Michael Cera, you’ll get more than you bargained for, here; but you might end up liking that double dose.

Michael Cera is Revolting! Allowing possible one-note actor Michael Cera to stretch a little, Gustin Nash’s screenplay (based on C.D. Payne’s novel), tells the story of young, naive nerd Nick Twisp, who is so hell-bent on winning the rebellious daddy’s little girl of his dreams (well-played by Portia Doubleday), that he creates an alter ego of himself – Francois Dillinger – who just may help Nick seal the deal.  Both Cera and Doubleday are great, as is the Juno-esque dialog delivered by them.  A funny script is supported by the likes of Jean Smart, Zach Galifianakis, Steve Buscemi, Fred Willard, Ray Liotta and Justin Long (among others).  And even with such a large and obvious supporting cast, they don’t feel like stunts; seamlessly working themselves in and out of the main story, which is a quick and enjoyable 90 minutes.

Revolution! I’ve heard this movie doesn’t quite do the novel justice, but since I haven’t read it, that didn’t keep me from enjoying the film, so there. Though a bit absurd in places, it generally keeps its cheek and tone throughout.  The effect of two Ceras onscreen is done so well it doesn’t distract from the story itself.

Rich’s Movie Grade:  B

MPAA: Rated Rated R for sexual content, language and drug use.

Runtime: 90 min

Director: Miguel Arteta

Writers Gustin Nash (screenplay), and C.D. Payne (novel)

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