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Tag

Tag (2018)

May 30, 2018 1h 40m Comedy Action

For one month every year, five highly competitive friends hit the ground running in a no-holds-barred game of tag they’ve been playing since the first grade. This year, the game coincides with the wedding of their only undefeated player, which should finally make him an easy target. But he knows they’re coming...and he’s ready.

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Directed by Jeff Tomsic

Cast

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Crew

Director
  • Jeff Tomsic
Producer
  • Todd Garner
  • Mark Steilen

Reviews

Gimly
7/10

I had a pretty great time with _Tag_. Maybe that's because I went to a nice theatre (which I haven't done in a while) and saw it with a couple of close friends on a very nice day, but I rather think that it's primarily because of Jeremy Renner's character. The way he's written, acted, and shot, are all pretty much flawless. Off the strength of him alone, I could probably send you out to see _Tag_, but there is a Hell of a lot else to appreciate about it too.

_Final rating:★★★½ - I really liked it. Would strongly recommend you give it your time._

Jan 22, 2019

GenerationofSwine
10/10

It really is just funny. If you're looking for more than a funny movie it's time to question why you're watching Tag.

The strength is the casting. Everyone did a great job, but there are three highlights I feel the need to specifically praise:

Jake Johnson plays the best perpetual stoner friend I've seen since Brad Pitt in True Romance. He's both relatable and completely exaggerated, and he pulls both off with ease.

Isla Fisher was, well, the best way to describe her is: "consistently hysterical." She was so aggressively over-the-top that her scenes were a delight to watch. She was able to capture a specific personality trait of a certain type of person everyone knows, and then believably exaggerate it to hysterical proportions. She delivered what was probably the best comedic performance in 2018.

And Jeremy Renner was able to play the aloof living McGuffin perfectly straight and believable no matter how absurd his scenes were. They say comedy is best delivered straight and he proves the statement true and adds a graceful timing to his performance.

Unfortunately it's not going to be remembered, but it might be a cult classic if for no other reason that the characters were perfectly cast for their individual roles.

Ultimately, when all is said and done, Tag will make you laugh, and that really was the point of both making the film and watching the film. In my book that's a success.

Jan 13, 2023

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Thematic Analysis

This high-octane Comedy/Action film balances spectacular sequences with character-driven moments. Unlike many films in the genre, Tag distinguishes itself through a unique visual style and creative action choreography.

Director Jeff Tomsic 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 2018, 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 Tag took approximately 28 months from pre-production to final cut.
  • With a budget of $28.0 million, the film proved to be a financial success, earning back its investment and more.
  • The final cut of the film runs for 100 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 123 minutes long.
  • The director insisted on using practical effects whenever possible, reserving CGI for only the most necessary scenes.
  • The cast underwent specialized training for 2 weeks before filming began.
  • The costume department created over 275 unique costume pieces for the production.

Historical Context

  • In 2018, when this film is released:
  • Streaming services were revolutionizing film and television consumption.
  • Climate change awareness was becoming a central global concern.
  • Streaming platforms were disrupting traditional distribution models and changing how audiences consumed films.

How This Film Stands Out

While Tag shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.

Unlike Fearless, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, Tag subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.

While films like EuroTrip and Private Parts explore similar territory, Tag stands apart through its distinctive directorial vision and pacing.

This film's unique contribution to cinema lies in its thoughtful balance of entertainment value and thematic depth, making it a valuable addition to its genre.

Details

  • Release Date: May 30, 2018
  • Runtime: 1h 40m
  • Budget: $28,000,000
  • Revenue: $75,100,000

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