Fun Size: A Sweet & Silly Coming-of-Age Story (Blu-ray Review)
For fans of: Teen comedies, coming-of-age stories, and Halloween fun.
Release Date: October 25, 2012 (Blu-ray release)
Director: Josh Schwartz
Starring: Victoria Justice, Thomas Mann, Jane Levy, Chelsea Handler, Osric Chau, Osric Chau, and more
Fun Size is a lighthearted teen comedy that centers around Wren (Victoria Justice), a high school senior who finds herself on a wild Halloween night adventure after her little brother, Albert (Jackson Nicoll), goes missing.
The film kicks off with Wren, a high school senior, eagerly anticipating a Halloween party with her best friend, April (Jane Levy), and her crush, Alex (Thomas Mann). However, her plans go awry when her mom, Rosie (Chelsea Handler), forces her to babysit Albert for the night.
As Wren tries to manage the chaos of babysitting while simultaneously trying to sneak out to the party, Albert vanishes. What follows is a hilarious night of searching for Albert, filled with quirky encounters and unexpected twists, as Wren discovers the importance of family and friendship.
What Works
-
Fun & Energetic: Fun Size is bursting with a youthful energy that makes it a fun and lighthearted watch. The film is packed with laughs, both from the witty dialogue and the over-the-top situations.
-
Relatable Characters: Despite the over-the-top antics, the characters feel grounded and relatable. Wren, in particular, is a relatable character who navigates the anxieties of adolescence and the pressures of trying to fit in.
-
Strong Cast: Victoria Justice delivers a charming performance as Wren, showcasing her comedic timing and vulnerability. The supporting cast, including Jane Levy, Thomas Mann, and Chelsea Handler, add a great deal of humor and heart to the film.
-
Nostalgia for Halloween: The film perfectly captures the excitement and energy of Halloween, with its vibrant costumes, spooky decorations, and nostalgic feel.
What Could Be Improved
-
Plot Predictability: The plot, while engaging at times, is rather predictable. There's a distinct lack of surprises, and the overall narrative follows a well-worn formula.
-
Limited Character Development: While the main characters are relatable, they lack depth. This is particularly true for the supporting cast, who are primarily used for comedic relief.
-
Over-reliance on Clichés: The film leans heavily on teen movie clichés, which might feel unoriginal to some viewers.
Overall
Fun Size is a light and enjoyable teen comedy that's perfect for a casual watch. The film's vibrant energy, relatable characters, and nostalgia for Halloween make it an entertaining option for a night in with friends or family. While it doesn't break any new ground in terms of plot or character development, it still delivers plenty of laughs and moments of warmth.
Blu-ray Special Features
The Blu-ray disc boasts a decent selection of special features, including:
- Deleted Scenes: A mix of extended scenes and alternative takes that offer a glimpse into the film's production process.
- Behind-the-Scenes Featurette: A short documentary that showcases the cast and crew at work, offering insights into the film's creation.
- Music Videos: Includes music videos for the film's soundtrack, featuring the likes of Carly Rae Jepsen and The Ready Set.
- Gag Reel: A collection of bloopers and outtakes from filming, providing a lighthearted and often hilarious look at the film's production.
Final Verdict
Fun Size is a charming and silly teen comedy that will resonate with viewers who enjoy lighthearted entertainment. While it may not be a cinematic masterpiece, it's an enjoyable and entertaining film that's sure to bring a smile to your face.
Recommendation:
Recommended for fans of teen comedies, coming-of-age stories, and Halloween fun.
Rating: 3 out of 5 stars