Drillbit Taylor (2008)

Three incoming freshman have high hopes for their high school careers. Their first day of school clearly sets the pace for Wade (Nate Hartley), Emmit (David Dorfman), and Ryan (Troy Gentile). They are on the bottom of the food chain and school bully, Filkins (Alex Frost) is at the top. One week under Filkins' reign of terror, the boys decide to hire a bodyguard. Limited means gets them an ex-Army soldier and beach bum in Drillbit Taylor (Owen Wilson). As the hero of three geeky misfits, Drillbit teaches the boys life lessons and learns some on his own.

Drillbit Taylor will not win any awards. Nor will it wins fans of the R-rated conglomerate of Rogan/Apatow and Co.. Unlike Superbad, The 40-Year Old Virgin, and Knocked-Up, Drillbit Taylor is an average underdog story. This average is an entertaing movie. I truly didn't expect to enjoy this film solely because of its creators.

Owen Wilson perfects his carefree attitude (Hansel, Dupree) in the role of Drillbit. It's obvious Wilson isn't stretching his talents, but he is fun to watch interacting with the three young leads. Writer Seth Rogan obviously has some deep-seated emotion issues. Alex Frost might just be the next Channing Tatum.

Much like a freshman, the film is unfocused and jumps the shark too often to create a truly heart-warming story. There is also an edge of cynicism that keeps the touchy-feely to a minimum. Still, Drillbit Taylor has its heart in the right place.