Drillbit Taylor (PG-13-2008)

"Drillbit Taylor" is Judd Apatow/Seth Rogen "lite". The directing/writing tries their hand at PG-13 non-raunchy comedy here. Owen Wilson plays the titular "Drillbit Tayor", a former military man, who is now homeless in California, looking for a way to get to Canada to get a fresh start on life. Meanwhile, in a local high school, three high school freshmen are having a very hard time dealing with the school's resident bullies (Alex Frost and Josh Peck). Interestingly, the three freshman resemble the leads in "Superbad" enough that the movie plays almost as a prequel to that movie. The freshman decide the only option for them is to find a bodyguard. The premise is similar to the film "My Bodyguard". In fact, there is a brief tip of the hat to that film that is especially funny if you are familiar with it. These lives converge when Drillbit gets himself hired to be that bodyguard. While Wilson is funny in the role and handles it very well, the character itself is not really very likable at times. He has no intention of meeting his end of the bargain and only intends to milk these kids for as much cash as he can. The movie is moderately funny most of the way through and does include some laugh out loud moments. It is an "OK" movie, nothing more, nothing less. Actually, it's PG-13 rating hurts it a little bit. They seem to be aiming for a younger audience, but still include some material that is inappropriate for younger audiences. It seems like they should have either chosen to go the family film route or stuck to the edgier material they are more comfortable with. It does not completely undermine the film, but it sort of makes it feel like a confused effort.

Grade: C

Trailer: