The landscape of comedy, particularly those centered around teenage experiences, has shifted dramatically. Looking back a decade, a film about parents attempting to thwart their daughters’ sexual exploration might have veered into cringeworthy and patriarchal territory. However, in a post-Bridesmaids world, and with a growing appreciation for female-led narratives, films like Blockers arrive with a self-awareness that is both refreshing and necessary. This movie, far from being a simplistic sex comedy, engages in a nuanced conversation about societal anxieties surrounding young women’s sexuality, and within this discourse, John Cena delivers a performance that’s surprisingly… well, let’s just say it’s noteworthy.
Blockers centers on three high school seniors, Kathryn Newton, Geraldine Viswanathan, and Gideon Adlon, who make a pact to lose their virginity on prom night. Enter their well-meaning but overbearing parents, played by Leslie Mann, John Cena, and Ike Barinholtz, who stumble upon this plan and embark on a mission to preserve their daughters’ “innocence.” The premise itself is ripe for misinterpretation, but the film deftly navigates these potential pitfalls by constantly acknowledging the inherent awkwardness and societal pressures at play.
One can’t help but draw comparisons to Superbad, another seminal teen comedy. However, Superbad largely sidelined the parental figures, focusing instead on the bonds of male friendship. Blockers, in contrast, places parents squarely in the foreground. This begs the question: does this parental lens perpetuate the infantilization of young women? Is their story only valid when viewed through the concerned gaze of their guardians? The film grapples with this directly, choosing to engage in “important dialogue” rather than simply letting the narrative unfold unashamedly.
However, context is crucial. These parents are not just parents; they represent the arbiters of mainstream society, embodying the contradictions and anxieties inherent in that worldview. Crucially, their journey becomes one of deeper self-discovery, delving into psychosexual complexities that arguably surpass those of their daughters. Sex, the film suggests, can be a challenging and often confusing territory for everyone, particularly when venturing outside one’s comfort zone. And it’s in this exploration of discomfort and societal expectations that John Cena’s portrayal becomes particularly interesting, even if we are dancing around a certain… phallic symbol in the room, metaphorically speaking.
Apple is all over this flick
Image alt text: Promotional still from Blockers movie showing Leslie Mann, Ike Barinholtz, and John Cena comically reacting to something off-screen, highlighting the film’s focus on parental anxieties.
The film also commendably models consent. Both the younger and older generations find themselves in awkward situations, but it’s often the adults, burdened by their own sexual hang-ups, who stumble into ethically murky territory. The teenagers, conversely, demonstrate a healthier approach, engaging in open communication and mutual respect within their relationships. Blockers champions healthy sexual exploration, foregrounding good intentions and consent in a refreshing manner for a sex comedy.
However, the film’s desire for a universally happy ending feels somewhat forced. Leslie Mann’s character is tasked with overcoming her anxieties and embracing her daughter’s choices, while the male characters, Cena and Barinholtz, resolve their issues through more direct, almost confrontational means, ultimately embodying the “good dad” archetype. The film hesitates to fully critique these masculine impulses, and the female character seemingly bears a disproportionate emotional burden. One yearns for a touch more nuance in the final resolution; the neatness of the bows feels a bit too contrived.
Aesthetically, Blockers adopts a surprisingly relaxed and chill vibe. It doesn’t attempt to replicate the manic energy of films like Superbad. Instead, it opts for a languid, slightly offbeat pacing. Jokes unfold with a casual rebelliousness, flowing organically from the characters rather than being forcefully punctuated. There’s a noticeable absence of screaming or over-the-top reactions. Even a car crash and explosion are staged as absurdist slow comedy. This understated approach underscores the film’s focus on emotional stakes rather than external jeopardy. It’s a small-scale film that lingers on moments of character decency, creating a quietly delightful experience.
Lady Bird
Image alt text: A scene from Blockers featuring Geraldine Viswanathan and Gideon Adlon, showcasing the film’s focus on the teenage daughters’ perspectives and their evolving friendships.
And speaking of delightful experiences, this marks a turning point for John Cena’s on-screen presence. He appears to have finally found his footing, embodying a lovable goofball persona. Whatever acting classes he’s taken have clearly paid off. Whether he can transition into serious dramatic roles remains to be seen, but he has undeniably carved out a compelling comedy niche. His performance in Blockers is more than just physically imposing; it’s nuanced and genuinely funny, showcasing a comedic… cockiness that is perfectly suited to the role.
Beyond Cena, Geraldine Viswanathan and Sarayu Blue deliver standout performances as a daughter exploring her rebellious side and her feminist mother, respectively. While their screen time might be somewhat limited, they consistently deliver some of the most interesting and humorous moments in the film. Miles Robbins also adds a memorable touch as a character whose defining trait is crafting exceptionally delicious edibles. It’s a quirky and endearing character concept, even if somewhat underdeveloped.
In conclusion, Blockers is a surprisingly solid and enjoyable film. It effectively utilizes its runtime, understands its target audience, and delivers a generous amount of laughs. While its message might not be delivered with flawless artistry, it commendably tackles complex themes with a swole confidence. It’s not a cinematic masterpiece, but it’s a genuinely fun and thought-provoking ride. And John Cena, in particular, delivers a performance that is… well, let’s just say it sticks out.
All these extras too old
Image alt text: A humorous image from Blockers showing a movie rating certificate, emphasizing the film’s comedic and lighthearted approach to sensitive topics.
