We’ve all been on a midnight bus after a fun night out, and seen things that defy explanation. Imagine driving that bus every night where college kids rule the streets. That’s what Drunk Bus is basically about, and for the most part delivers a heartfelt and original story.
Michael (Charlie Tahan – Ozark) is a twenty-something young man with no future plans. He just spends every day living through the same routine, moping about his celibate girlfriend who he hasn’t seen in quite some time. It’s not until Pineapple (Pineapple Tangaroa), the tattooed Samoan bad ass bodyguard, steps into his life that Michael finally gets pushed to start living his life and take some risks.
John Carlucci & Brandon LaGanke‘s feature directorial debut was written by first time writer Chris Molinaro, who delivers a sharp script with enough depth to keep you entertained throughout. Drunk Bus is mostly enjoyable because it’s relatable in many ways, yet mostly keeps it very safe. That isn’t necessarily a bad thing, as the film tackles some serious subjects relating to infidelity, young adult insecurities and friendship, which come together as a satisfying whole.
Tahan is the biggest name (next to a small part for Will Forte) attached to this film, but it’s Tangaroa in his first major role, who steals the show. His look is what pulls you in, but his unexpected charismatic persona is what makes you beg for more. The rest of the cast does a pretty good job at establishing their characters, although Tahan himself didn’t always convince me of his performance as awkward downbeat virgin Michael.
Drunk Bus is a fun ride, with a whole lot of heart and a little bit of WTF. Skip the party bus, this is the ride you want to get on.
Blue Finch Film Releasing presents DRUNK BUS on Digital Download 24 May
Review – Drunk Bus
Reviewed online (screener provided by publicist), May 23, 2021. Rating: 15. Running time: 101 min.
PRODUCTION: (UK) A Blue Finch Film Releasing release of a Ghost+Cow Films, Hollenbeck Film and Experience production. Producers: Eric Hollenbeck (p.g.a.), Steven Ilous, Grant Fitch. Executive producers: John Carlucci, Michael Carroll, Jay Fields, Tom Gordon, Ali Jazayeri, Brandon LaGanke, Edward Nash, Josh Oren, Ian Tarbert, Viviana Zarragoitia.
CREW: Directors: John Carlucci, Brandon LaGanke. Writer: Chris Molinaro. Cinematography: Luke McCoubrey. Editing: Taylor Levy. Music: Nathaniel Eras, Jimmy Stofer, Alan Wilkis.
CAST: Charlie Tahan, Kara Hayward, Will Forte, Zach Cherry, Sarah Mezzanotte, Pineapple Tangaroa, Dave Hill, Tonatiuh, Martin Pfefferkorn.