There is always a degree of predictability going into a comedy that is teen driven with an R-rating. Sex Drive delivers a unique amalgam of a film that is reminiscent of a classic John Hughes flick such as Breakfast Club with the hilarity and raunchy deliveries of America Pie. A relatively new directorial presence (Sean Anders) with a fresh cast are present for those who like newer talent but even if there was a familiar cast, the movie would still retain the flair of an indie film much like what audiences were exposed to with Superbad.
Ian (Josh Zuckerman) is an awkward sexually frustrated teen who continuously fall’s victim to the teasing and taunting of his cocky older brother Rex (James Marsden). Rex utilizes every opportunity to pit Ian into embarrassing situations and exploit his virginity through homophobic references. Ian’s determination to end his chastity becomes even more evident as he flirts with a girl over the Internet who promises to go all the way if makes the nine-hour trek from his home town of Chicago to meet her in Knoxville.
Ian hardly puts up a fight once his confident ladies man of a friend Lance (Clark Duke) coaxes him into stealing his hot tempered brother’s Pontiac GTO muscle car to ensure that Ian’s rite of passage is in the bag. As they embark on their journey, the duo unwilling run into Ian’s childhood, and now heartthrob of a friend, Felicia (Amanda Crew) who goes along for the ride under false pretenses.
The direction is undoubtedly predictable and the characters’ are a bit two-dimensional with the subsequent fall and reprisal of their moral centers feeling rushed and expected. However, this is more than made up for in the film’s intentional lighthearted nature that is filled with bouts of sidesplitting laughter at nearly every turn along with a number of “blink and you will miss it” moments of humor.
More than just being hilarious, the real gems come from a couple of noteworthy performances. Lance’s unbecoming success with women is well conceived delivering the comic feel of a young Drew Carey paired up with the suave confidence of Corey Feldman, if imaginable. The other performance to steal the show comes from Ezekial, played by veteran actor Seth Green. Fans will definitely not be disappointed by his uniquely dry and matter-of-fact humor in his portrayal of an Amish farmer.
The romance and direction of this teenaged cross country romp is no secret to the tenured moviegoer but the laughs throughout are sure to turn a bad day good. Those who are entertained by crass and shocking humor will be satisfied. Those who are easily offended should steer clear. Above all, the performances are what really complete this movie as the characters deliver their witty and youthfully savvy exchanges that will surely become pop culture trademarks.
– Chris Walsh
