By Jackson Weaver
Staff Writer
The overwhelming anticipation of comedic actor Jack Black returning to the big screen takes a turn for the worst in his new role in “The D Train.”
Directors Andrew Mogel and Jarrad Paul’s attempt to implement comedic stints from Jack Black into primarily a dark and edgy storyline ultimately backfires. Periodically side tracking from main points in the plot which results in confusion.
“The D Train” starts with Dan Landsman (Jack Black) who desperately tries to encourage his classmates to come to the 20th anniversary reunion. Dan was never the coolest guy in school; however, his luck could change if he can convince Oliver Lawless (James Marsden), the most popular guy from his high school, to come with him to the reunion.
From faking a business trip to staging an interview with the head of a corporation, Dan travels from Pittsburgh to Los Angeles spinning a web of lies serving up the question: how far would you go to be popular? In many eyes, it doesn’t matter where you stand, but enjoy where you are.
Unlike many films Jack Black has starred in, like “Nacho Libre”, Black plays the role of the unpopular and antisocial Landsman. Like previous films, directors Andrew Mogel and Jarrad Paul try to add in the same charismatic comedy from his previous big hit, “Nacho Libre” into their own; however, the contrast between comedy and depressing storyline stirs confusion.
Also, the plot devised seems to be a mess in itself. Landsman’s life revolves around bringing everyone back for their twentieth- year high school reunion. He is a father and a husband but the reunion seems to be the only thing that matters to him. He turns into this awkward character with a lack of confidence which doesn’t suit well for playing the protagonist.
Paul and Mogel portray the film taking place during the early 2000’s, the beginning of the apple products and technology booming. Landsman’s company however is still stuck in the dark ages with extremely slow computers, brick-like phones and doing things the traditional ways by pen and paper. This portrayal of the film with the lack of technological advancements take away from the film’s relatability to our modern technology today.
In addition, the film is intended to be a comedy starring actor Jack Black; however, the dark styled visuals incite the film to be more of a drama. Primarily the low quality visuals depicting the early 2000’s produces a dull atmosphere which takes away from the hints of comedy that are strung throughout the film.
“The D Train” exemplifies the failure of comedy as the plot seems to contradict itself as it’s inability to choose between comedic and depressing results in confusion. Jack Black’s big return starring in theaters was over-hyped as he is unable to bring the film together.
“The D Train” is rated R and is playing in theaters nationwide.
Leave a Reply