While in his teens, Donny fathered a son, Todd, and raised him as a single parent up until Todd’s 18th birthday. Now, after not seeing each other for years, Todd’s world comes crashing down when Donny resurfaces just before Todd’s wedding.
“That’s My Boy” 2012 Movie Review: A Raucous Blend of Comedy and Chaos
Introduction Released in 2012, “That’s My Boy” is a comedy film starring Adam Sandler and Andy Samberg. Directed by Sean Anders, the film dives into the chaotic world of an irresponsible father reuniting with his estranged son in the days leading up to the son’s wedding. Known for its crude humor and outrageous scenarios, “That’s My Boy” attempts to deliver laughs through its no-holds-barred comedic style.
Plot Overview The film follows Donny Berger (Adam Sandler), a washed-up TV star who became famous in his teens due to a scandalous affair with his teacher. As financial ruin looms, Donny seeks out his wealthy and successful son, Todd (Andy Samberg), whom he hasn’t seen in years. Donny crashes Todd’s upscale wedding weekend, triggering a series of comedic mishaps and revealing long-buried family secrets.
Cast and Performances Adam Sandler, in his typical fashion, brings a high-energy, over-the-top performance that his fans have come to expect. Andy Samberg plays the straight-laced son, providing a good counterbalance to Sandler’s more flamboyant character. The chemistry between the two leads, while chaotic, drives much of the film’s humor and is supported by a cast of familiar faces who add to the comedy.
Direction and Cinematography Sean Anders directs “That’s My Boy” with an eye for traditional comedy setups, focusing on physical humor and timing to land the jokes. The film’s cinematography is straightforward, keeping the focus on the actors and the comedic action without delving into any innovative visual techniques. This approach serves the film’s primary goal: to entertain and elicit laughs through visual gags and slapstick.
Themes and Humor “That’s My Boy” largely revolves around themes of redemption and reconciliation, albeit handled in a uniquely irreverent and often crude manner. The humor is decidedly adult, with jokes that push boundaries and often polarize audiences. It’s a film that stays true to Adam Sandler’s comedic roots, for better or for worse, depending on one’s taste in humor.
Conclusion “That’s My Boy” is a film that caters to fans of Adam Sandler’s brand of comedy, filled with crude jokes and over-the-top scenarios. While it may not win over critics looking for subtlety and depth, the film delivers what it promises: a loud, raucous laugh fest.
Final Thoughts For those who appreciate Adam Sandler’s comedic style, “That’s My Boy” offers plenty of laughs and familiar gags. It’s a film best enjoyed with expectations aligned with its brand of humor, providing a diverting, if not divisive, cinematic experience.
