Cast
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Ryan Reynolds
as Van Wilder
Tara Reid
as Gwen Pearson
Tim Matheson
as Vance Wilder Sr.
Kal Penn
as Taj Mahal Badalandabad
Teck Holmes
as Hutch
Daniel Cosgrove
as Richard Bagg
Deon Richmond
as Mini Cochran
Alex Burns
as Gordon
Emily Rutherfurd
as Jeannie
Paul Gleason
as Professor McDoogle
Erik Estrada
as Erik Estrada
Curtis Armstrong
as Campus Cop
Jason Winer
as Panos Patakos
Chris Owen
as Suicidal Freshman
Simon Helberg
as Vernon
Crew
Director
- Walt Becker
Producer
- Peter Abrams
- Andrew Panay
- Robert L. Levy
- Jonathon Komack Martin
Reviews
Gimly
I'm not exactly what one might call "in to" American comedies, and gross out humour/romantic comedies are pretty much at the bottom of even that list. For a movie that most certainly contains both those two things (the latter in especially heavy doses), I actually didn't mind _Van Wilder_ that much. But it's all about context, if instead of comparing it to a list of similar things that I hate you compared it to, say, the entire history of cinema overall, then _National Lampoon's Van Wilder_ is pretty bad.
One additional note, the friend of mine who I put this on for told me that the movie was from the era of "When Tara Reid was still hot". Now personally I've never found any iteration of her attractive, but it did make me have a parallel thought, is Van Wilder from the era when Tara Reid was a better actor? I'm not saying she has been some sort of Oscar-worthy great at any stage, but if I compare her in this to her in, for example, _Sharknado 47_, despite the extra years of experience, she's definitely worse now, right?
_Final rating:★★ - Had some things that appeal to me, but a poor finished product._
Mar 18, 2018
Thematic Analysis
National Lampoon's Van Wilder represents a fascinating example of Comedy/Romance cinema, offering viewers a unique perspective on the human experience and societal structures. The film's approach to its themes demonstrates a creative vision that distinguishes it within its genre.
Director Walt Becker brings their distinctive visual style to this film, continuing their exploration of themes seen in their previous works while adding new elements. Their approach to pacing and visual storytelling creates a viewing experience that rewards close attention.
Released in 2002, the film exists within a cultural context that continues to evolve with our understanding of its themes. Its reception demonstrates the diverse reactions to its artistic choices and its place in cinema history.
Did You Know?
- The production of National Lampoon's Van Wilder took approximately 19 months from pre-production to final cut.
- With a budget of $6.0 million, the film proved to be a financial success, earning back its investment and more.
- The final cut of the film runs for 92 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 129 minutes long.
- The cast underwent specialized training for 5 weeks before filming began.
- The director insisted on using practical effects whenever possible, reserving CGI for only the most necessary scenes.
- The film contains approximately 1468 individual shots.
Historical Context
- In 2002, when this film is released:
- Digital technology was disrupting traditional media and entertainment.
- Environmental concerns were becoming more mainstream.
- Digital filmmaking technologies were transforming production processes and creating new opportunities.
How This Film Stands Out
While National Lampoon's Van Wilder shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Married Life, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, National Lampoon's Van Wilder offers a fresh perspective through its innovative visual language and narrative structure.
While films like A Life Less Ordinary and Meet the Feebles explore similar territory, National Lampoon's Van Wilder stands apart through its deeper exploration of its central themes and more complex characterization.
This film's unique contribution to cinema lies in its bold artistic choices and willingness to challenge viewer expectations, making it a valuable addition to its genre.
Details
- Release Date: March 29, 2002
- Runtime: 1h 32m
- Budget: $6,000,000
- Revenue: $39,241,323
Where to Watch
