I watched Accepted and I liked it. 3/5
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Accepted is a comedy film directed by Steve Pink that follows the story of Bartleby Gaines (played by Justin Long), a high school graduate who creates a fake college to fool his parents and friends. While the film has its moments of humor and a lighthearted tone, it falls short in delivering a truly memorable and cohesive story, resulting in a somewhat forgettable experience.
One of the strengths of Accepted lies in its cast. Justin Long brings his signature charm and wit to the role of Bartleby Gaines, carrying the film with his comedic timing and likable presence. The supporting cast, including Jonah Hill, Blake Lively, and Lewis Black, also deliver solid performances and contribute to the film’s comedic moments. Their chemistry and interactions bring some genuinely funny moments to the screen, creating an enjoyable atmosphere.
The film explores the theme of societal pressures and the pursuit of individuality. Bartleby’s rebellion against the traditional education system and his creation of the South Harmon Institute of Technology (S.H.I.T.) provides a platform for a light critique of the rigidity and expectations associated with higher education. The film encourages viewers to question societal norms and embrace their own paths, albeit in a somewhat simplistic and predictable manner.
Where Accepted falls short is in its execution and lack of depth. The plot feels disjointed at times, and certain subplots and character arcs are underdeveloped. The film relies heavily on slapstick humor and exaggerated situations, which may appeal to some viewers but may feel forced or contrived to others. The narrative lacks depth and fails to explore the potential complexities of the characters and their relationships.
Another aspect that hampers the overall impact of Accepted is its predictability. The story follows a formulaic structure, with little surprise or genuine tension. The plot twists, when they do occur, are easily foreseeable, which diminishes the impact of the film’s attempt at creating dramatic moments. The lack of narrative surprises and the reliance on clichés make the film feel formulaic and less engaging.
The visual style of Accepted is adequate, but it doesn’t stand out in any significant way. The film’s setting, the fictional S.H.I.T. campus, lacks visual distinctiveness and fails to create a unique atmosphere. The cinematography and production design do little to enhance the storytelling, resulting in a visually unremarkable experience.
Despite its shortcomings, Accepted does have its moments of laughter and offers a lighthearted escape. The film’s underlying message about embracing one’s individuality and challenging societal expectations is positive and can resonate with some viewers. It provides some entertaining and humorous scenes that may elicit a smile or two.
In conclusion, Accepted is an average comedy film that delivers some laughs but ultimately falls short in its execution and depth. While the cast delivers solid performances and the film explores themes of individuality and societal pressures, it fails to deliver a truly memorable and cohesive story. The predictability of the plot and lack of depth in character development hinder the overall impact of the film. Accepted earns a 3 out of 5 rating, making it a decent choice for those seeking a light-hearted comedy but offering little in terms of lasting impact or depth.