Back in 1999 a relative bunch of unknowns turned up in a gross out comedy about losing their virginity. It launched Sean William Scott and (to a lesser degree) his on screen counter parts into the stratosphere. Here was another gross out comedy, but it came with a difference. And we’re not talking about the pie fucking scene. It had incredibly likeable and charming characters and it had a little heart to boot. So after 2 average sequels and a host of appalling spin off movies, the original American Pie crew are back for one more slice of pie.
The primary cast Oz, Kevin, Stifler and Jim have all moved on in their lives. Kids, marriage, work and alleged world adventures now take up their time. So it’s reunion time and the gang get back together for old times sake and ultimately will end up at their high school reunion. That’s the story essentially, and while its much ado about nothing, the hijinks the old crew get into are genuinely laugh out loud. Coupled with some old feelings rising to the surface for some of the crew as well as a few bedroom issues, you not only get a genuine slice of hilarity, but something that at times is almost thought provoking and incredibly heart felt and genuine. Even in the closing chapters, one scene in particular will have you wanting to applaud and jump out of your seat.
All that said, the gross out moments come thick and fast (literally) and there is quite an amount of scenes that will have you choking on your popcorn and whatever you do, don’t move anywhere once the credits roll. The cast, who lets face it, are a fantastic ensemble all still have it, and many seem to have zero regard for their own dignity (whats left of it) from an onscreen point of view. Sean William Scott and Eugene Levy in particular are genuine treats to watch, even Tara Reid is likeable here.
The pacing of the movie here is rock solid, and it never feels rushed. Every scene just flows into the other quite well. Even the soundtrack should conjure up some memories of the original. You will also come away wondering what kind of voodoo has been performed on the cast, as none of them look like they’ve aged at all.
While it runs the risk of being overcooked, American Reunion reminds you why it tasted so good all those years ago. This slice of pie is certainly damn tasty. Check it out!
