Richard Linklater, the director of Dazed and Confused, returns with Everybody Wants Some!!. This film is not your typical sports movie. It offers a humorous and insightful view of college baseball in 1980s Texas. Think of it as a spiritual sequel, capturing the essence of college life through raucous parties and locker rooms. Is it worth your time? Let's find out.
Overview of Everybody Wants Some!!
Picture being a college freshman in 1980s Texas. Blake Jenner plays Jake, who jumps into a world filled with his new teammates. They are not average jocks. This crew embodies disco-loving, party-seeking freedom seekers learning about unsupervised adulthood. The storyline is simple: enjoy the guys’ journey leading up to college classes.
Fun fact: Like many of Linklater’s films, Everybody Wants Some!! is autobiographical. Linklater played college baseball in Texas. The film centers on off-field antics and bonds rather than baseball glory. It showcases those unforgettable moments with teammates, the kind that leave you smiling. The title nods to Van Halen’s anthem, echoing Dazed and Confused's reference to a Led Zeppelin song. Setting the mood matters.
Everybody Wants Some!!: A Related Film to Dazed and Confused?
Is Everybody Wants Some!! a traditional sequel? Not quite. It’s a spiritual relative that shares Linklater's essence. Both films showcase youthful exploration in Texas. However, while Dazed and Confused explored high school, Everybody Wants Some!! focuses on college life. The characters differ, but the director remains the same. Both examine the balance between rules and reckless living, highlighting moments of freedom and self-discovery, showing the joy of being young.
Production Insights
Richard Linklater directed this film. Shooting began in Austin on October 13, 2014. It later moved to Weimar, Texas, until early December. Texas provided a fitting backdrop, with filming also taking place in San Marcos and San Antonio. Authenticity matters; inspiration came from Sam Houston State University, Linklater’s alma mater where he played baseball. Watching means seeing a slice of Linklater’s life.
Reception and Reviews
Did Everybody Wants Some!! connect with audiences? Many think so. Reviews celebrate it as a “wonderful return” for Linklater with his trademark character dynamics and vibrant dialogue. Critics describe the film as feel-good, filled with energy and an amazing soundtrack. One viewer remarked that Linklater can create a movie about "nothing," which is a compliment given the depth "nothing" can hold. It’s a joyful experience that inspires spontaneous dance!
Not all viewers shared enthusiasm about the theme of "bros being bros." Some argued that discussions about romantic pursuits became tiresome. One critic remarked on the repetitiveness of such talks. Yet, despite criticisms, the film’s appeal lies in its ability to encapsulate moments of youthful joy and friendship, even while it might not resonate with everyone.
It's worth noting: Everybody Wants Some!! has an R rating. Expect strong sexual content, some nudity, colorful language, drug use, and brief comedic violence. It isn't suitable for family night unless you're open to unique discussions.
Themes and Message
Beneath the surface of fun lies a deeper message. Everybody Wants Some!! celebrates how baseball reflects life. It teaches passion and interests guide us. Baseball serves as a metaphor for teamwork, competition, and striving for improvement. It’s about finding meaning in joyful experiences while navigating love and life’s challenges.
The ending holds weight too. The history professor shares a profound thought: “FRONTIERS ARE WHERE YOU FIND THEM.” Frontiers extend beyond geographical space. They exist in experiences, challenges, and daily life. It’s a reminder of life's endless possibilities if you look closely.
Cast and Crew Highlights
While Matthew McConaughey’s Wooderson from Dazed and Confused gets attention, Everybody Wants Some!! focuses on a fresh cast led by Blake Jenner. The driving force remains Richard Linklater, whose personal journey shaped this nostalgic film. His vision took us through college baseball adventures with wit and affection.
Should you watch Everybody Wants Some!!? If you're after a feel-good film loaded with great music, sharp dialogue, and nostalgia, step up. Just expect plenty of “bros being bros.” Perhaps you’ll discover your own frontiers, wherever that may lead.
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