Drillbit Taylor Movie Review 2008
Drillbit Taylor is the best Owen Wilson film to hit the screens this year, I am sure there will be another before the year is out. This film revolves around Drillbit Taylor played by Owen Wilson. He is hired as a bodyguard to protect three geeky kids from their high school bullies. Drillbit Taylor teaches the children how to protect themselves, fight back and even learns a few things himself.
As the story develops Drillbit Taylor's motives become more complex than first revealed. Moreover, he develops a relationship with one of the teachers played by the lovely Leslie Mann. I personally love Owen Wilson and even enjoyed the terrible Shanghai Noon because Owen Wilson is so funny and always enthusiastic. He is charismatic, has plenty of energy and is utterly hilarious at times. In this movie it is no different and it is fair to say that he makes the film. The children give decent performances while not spectacular. Leslie Mann formerly of Knocked Up and Forty Year Old Virgin makes an appearance in the film directed by her husband Steven Brill. This film is definitely not suited for an adult audience. While there is some funny innuendo and Owen Wilson is terrific but this film is still only suited to a teenage audience.
There are some quite ridiculous plot flaws but you have to ignore them to enjoy the film. Firstly, Owen Wilson is able to walk straight into the school, teach classes and even boss the staff room without anyone realising he is not a teacher! As the film progresses he even becomes the coach of the sports team. Secondly, the bullies do not really look like bullies at all. They are skinny and definitely not the most menacing looking people in the world.
The plot is decent and very easy to follow. For a film purist there is not enough character or plot development but if you sit back, watch the film and ignore the flaws then you will really enjoy the film. Owen Wilson is convincing as the cheeky out of work Drillbit Taylor. There is plenty of humour and the film is not too long like some recent comedies which seem to go on forever. Ultimately, this film is compact and uncomplicated. The humour is tasteful and clever but probably more suited to a teenager. Leslie Mann looks terrific as the sexy teacher and Owen Wilson is excellent.
Drillbit Taylor is never going to win an Oscar but if you want a funny and relaxing film, this movie will be ideal for you. I would recommend going to see it at the cinema and will be adding it to my Owen Wilson DVD collection.