“Neighbors” has been a bit of an enigma heading into release. When the promotion of a film is centered on Zac Efron taking his shirt off in multiple media appearances, your expectations for high quality may be watered down a tad. And given the fact Seth Rogen’s cinematic record is spotty at best, it’s fair to see why there would be a healthy dose of skepticism for his latest outing.
But much like last summer’s surprise hit “This is the End,” “Neighbors” takes glee in going against our expectations. The story is fairly straightforward: Mac (Rogen) and his wife Kelly (Rose Byrne) are dealing with young parenthood when a fraternity moves next door. The group’s leader Teddy (Efron) starts out as a cool cat who butters up the couple, but as the frat gets more rowdy, the friendship dissolves and all-out war between the two households begins.
All the college comedy hallmarks are here: penis jokes, drug use and beer pong make their casual appearances. Humor emerges better from the organic relationships fostered. Rogen and Byrne are comical and sweet enough to create a heroic side to root for in the young vs. old conflict.
Unexpected is the deeper aspect of Efron’s character. Teddy starts as a typical frat president, but beneath the party surface is a boy scared to face adulthood. This reality is cleverly brought to light by fellow frat member Pete (Dave Franco) who really comes into his own here.
Much like “This is the End,” “Neighbors” blessing is also a bit of a curse. Some of the bits sure to play to this generation are hysterical, such as when Mac and Teddy argue over who the real Batman is (Teddy is Christian Bale all the way, while Mac clings to Michael Keaton). That type of humor is great in-the-moment, but certainly isn’t timeless.
Luckily, the story is, and the coming-of-age fear of milennials is perfectly on display here. The real genius Rogen has been able to demonstrate in his recent string of films is how well his comedy appeals to both genders. The bro stuff is crude, no doubt, but the light-hearted mother moments Byrne makes will have women giggling even with Zac has a shirt on.
Ultimately, “Neighbors” is that perfect type of summer comedy that has just the right balance of fun and funny. Rogen and company are on a roll; let’s just hope the fine mixture they’ve attained continues on in future productions.
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