Extreme X-cess

Ironically, with Project X, Phillips (as producer) aims his film at those who were restricted to see Hangover or its sequel, recklessly depicting that teenage sex, the excessive abuse of drugs and alcohol by minors without adult supervision, the ill treatment of animals and friendly neighbours, provocative nudity and ruthless sexual games. The destruction of property and lack of respect can be deemed heroic.

A warning to parents and police everywhere

This is strange, because in a statement, the filmmakers claim that "Project X is a warning to parents and police everywhere". Maybe it's a warning not to see this film so that they won't be upset by its irresponsible actions, or perhaps become aware of what happens when their darling kids turn into raving party animals.

The story follows three seemingly anonymous high school seniors as they finally attempt to make a name for themselves. Their idea is innocent enough: let's throw a party that no one will forget and have a camera there to document history in the making - but nothing could prepare them for this party. Word spreads quickly as "dreams are ruined, records are blemished and legends are born".

From sensitive nerd to the coolest stud

In the film, the teenager who sets off a riot of events and becomes a "victim' of circumstance" is told by his father that, despite everything, he is proud of what his son has done. The boy's procedures also transform him from lonely outsider and sensitive nerd, to the coolest stud at his school and legendary hero.

To enhance the realism of the film, first-time director Nima Nourizadeh uses all his toys and employs the use of a hand-held camera to enhance the realism of a video diary that the birthday boy will treasure for ever. Is this trying to say that truth is stranger than fiction? Or that fiction needs a bit of indulgence from its filmmakers to reel in its target audience?

Crowds will flock to see

Judging from the response to its trailer, it is clear that crowds will flock to see what Project X is all about and, who knows, their response may indeed result in a riot.

If you find that it is fun to watch teenagers run riot and go crazy and set silly pranks into destructive action, or enjoyed Porkys, American Pie and Superbad, then Project X should provide ample amusement.

It's a definite warning to those who are looking for intelligent viewing, where humour is still funny, and comedy is still something to laugh at and not be fearful of. Project X does carry an age restriction of 16 in South Africa, which will most definitely prevent teenagers from seeing the film.

Behind the scenes

Producer Todd Phillips observed: "It's not really a straight-out comedy, quite honestly; it's really just a movie about a few bad decisions and things spiralling out of control - and that's always fun to document." Director Nima Nourizadeh closed: "This is a movie about fun. We had fun making it; we want people to have fun watching it. Growing up in the 1980s, we had excellent movies like Weird Science and Sixteen Candles, about those kids who wanted to change their lives, be noticed, be the popular ones for a change. I hope this is that kind of movie for kids today- though I don't recommend they base any of their decisions on the things they see Thomas and his friends doing!" Go behind the scenes of Project X. http://www.writingstudio.co.za/page3985.html

Rating 1/5