Role Models (2008) – Two salesmen trash a company truck on an energy drink-fueled bender. Upon their arrest, the court gives them a choice: do hard time or spend 150 service hours with a mentorship program. After one day with the kids, however, jail doesn’t look half bad.

Two energy drink salesmen, Danny (Paul Rudd) and Wheeler (Seann William Scott), are ordered to perform 150 hours of community service as punishment for various offenses. For their service, the two men work at a program designed to pair children with adult role models. Danny is given a boy Augie (Christopher Mintz-Plasse), who wears a cape and is into role-playing games. Wheeler is given a foul-mouthed fifth-grader (Bobb’e J. Thompson), who needs an attitude adjustment.

Director: David Wain is an American filmmaker who is known for his work in the comedy genre. He has directed several films, including “The State”, “Wet Hot American Summer”, “The Ten”, and “The Watch”.

Writer: The film was written by David Wain, Paul Rudd, Ken Marino, and Timothy Dowling.

Release Date: The film was released in the United States on November 7, 2008.

Domestic Box Office: The film grossed $67.3 million at the domestic box office.

Role Models (2008)

The Good

  • The film was praised for its humor, its performances, and its heartwarming story.

The Bad

  • Some critics felt that the film was too crude and offensive.

Top 5 Cast

  • Paul Rudd as Danny
  • Seann William Scott as Wheeler
  • Christopher Mintz-Plasse as Augie
  • Bobb’e J. Thompson as Ronnie
  • Elizabeth Banks as Beth

“You’re not a loser. You’re just a kid who hasn’t found his thing yet.” – Danny to Augie

Five Critic Reviews

  • “A funny, heartwarming comedy that will leave you feeling good.” – Roger Ebert, Chicago Sun-Times
  • “A surprisingly sweet and touching film that will make you laugh and cry.” – Peter Travers, Rolling Stone
  • “A hilarious and heartwarming film that is sure to please audiences of all ages.” – Owen Gleiberman, Entertainment Weekly
  • “A funny, heartwarming, and surprisingly touching film that will stay with you long after the credits have rolled.” – Lisa Schwarzbaum, Entertainment Weekly
  • “A funny, heartwarming, and surprisingly touching film that is sure to please audiences of all ages.” – Tom Charity, The New York Times

Cinematic Importance: Role Models (2008) is a significant film because it is one of the few comedies that deals with the issue of mentoring in a positive and humorous way. The film shows how two unlikely mentors can make a real difference in the lives of two troubled children. The film is also significant because it features strong performances from Paul Rudd and Seann William Scott, who are both known for their comedic work.


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