In recent times, Generation Z has playfully teased their older counterparts, Gen Xers and millennials, with hilarious roasts and “owning” moments. This trend often involves satirical takes on iconic films that defined the 20s for the older generations, such as Legally Blonde, National Lampoons Van Wilder, Scary Movie, and Scream. Now, it’s Generation Z’s turn in the spotlight, thanks to director Andy Palmer’s latest creation, “The Re-Education of Molly Singer.”
Molly’s Journey: From Party Enthusiast to “Elder”
The film introduces Molly Singer, played by Brit Robertson, a former college party enthusiast who comes to terms with the end of her wild party days. Fate places Molly in the unexpected role of one of the “elders” her generation once deemed uncool. “The Re-Education of Molly Singer” aims to redefine the stereotypical raunchy college comedy, providing a fresh perspective on the genre.
A Surprising Start: Molly’s Transition to the Real World
The narrative unfolds with Molly recounting her college and law school days, brimming with fun and seemingly light on education. To everyone’s surprise, Molly now holds a position in a law firm, a detail omitted from her narrated journey. It becomes apparent that Molly and her friend Ollie (Nico Santos) haven’t seamlessly transitioned into the real world, putting their present lives in jeopardy.
Unlikely Alliances: Brenda, Molly, Ollie, and Elliot
Brenda, Molly’s boss portrayed by Jaime Pressly, oversees the law firm where Molly works. As a widow and mother of a college freshman named Elliot (Ty Simpkins), Brenda grapples with the delicate phase of transitioning into a different relationship with her son. Unfortunately, a shared loss disrupts this transition. The lives of Molly, Ollie, Brenda, and Elliot intersect unexpectedly, forming alliances that steer the narrative of “The Re-Education of Molly Singer.”
College Adventures and Laughter Ensue
Concerned about Elliot’s struggle to adapt to college life, Brenda devises a plan involving Molly to help her son acclimate. Molly, in turn, rescues Ollie from an unforeseen predicament. Subsequent scenes, reminiscent of renowned comedies like Legally Blonde and National Lampoon’s Van Wilder, unfold with a humorous twist. Molly and Ollie, now in the role of the “older folks,” inadvertently guide Elliot through a series of cringe-worthy yet amusing situations in his pursuit of romance.
Raunchy Humor with a Clever Twist
“The Re-Education of Molly Singer” embraces the conventional raunchiness found in college comedies, featuring intimate scenes, “boner jokes” at Elliot’s expense, excessive drinking, and stereotypical Greek college antics. However, Molly’s character takes a unique turn, blending the charm of Van Wilder and Elle Woods. Molly’s adept handling of potentially embarrassing situations transforms them into assets, adding an unexpected dimension to the humor.
Generational Laughter: Jabs at Gen Z
A notable element is the film’s playful jabs at Generation Z. Molly instructs Ollie to be incognito, and when he feigns reading a newspaper, Molly growls, “What are you doing? These kids won’t know what that is!” It’s a delightful reversal where Gen Z becomes the subject of humor, amusing both millennials and Gen X viewers.
A Lighter Approach: Not as Intense as the 20s Classics
While “The Re-Education of Molly Singer” may not reach the intensity of beloved films from the 20s, it compensates with clever exchanges between the characters portrayed by Pressly, Robertson, and Santos. The potential for the film’s expansion, perhaps into a limited series, or the prospect of seeing these three talents in another comedy, leaves audiences eager for more.
In conclusion, “The Re-Education of Molly Singer” injects fresh life into campus comedy, offering a novel perspective on familiar themes with a delightful blend of humor and heart.