By: MJ Asuncion
Imagine having to return to high school nearly two decades after graduation just to earn your diploma. Thanks to a bizarre legal loophole, that is exactly what happens in the comedy Never Change!. The graduating class of North Meadows High School’s Class of 2008 is forced back into the classroom to officially complete their education. Now in their mid-thirties with careers, responsibilities and adult lives behind them, they suddenly find themselves navigating lockers, hallways and homework once again. As expected, the reunion quickly spirals into complete chaos.
Back in school the former classmates are once again subjected to teachers, cramped classrooms, exams, the school play and the awkward social dynamics they thought they had left behind. The film embraces familiar high school stereotypes and exaggerates them to absurd levels for comedic effect. Former jock Sunny Football (John Reynolds) hopes to reconnect with his longtime high school sweetheart, Katie Cartwright (Sophia Black-D’Elia), while class president Amelia Nadler (Jo Firestone) remains determined to leave a lasting legacy and finally be remembered. Meanwhile, the endlessly enthusiastic party-loving Tedi Mayo (Carmen Christopher) is still struggling to pass his classes. Although everyone has grown older, many of their teenage insecurities and personalities remain hilariously intact as they attempt to survive high school for a second time.
Written by and starring John Reynolds, the film Never Change! benefits greatly from his performance as Sunny Football. Reynolds brings an earnest charm and innocence to the character, making him easy to root for even amid the film’s outrageous situations. His natural charisma helps ground the story while still embracing its wonderfully bizarre premise. Although Sunny serves as one of the central characters, Never Change! is very much an ensemble comedy. Each cast member contributes their own unique comedic energy, creating a lively group dynamic where the characters play off one another naturally. Their chemistry keeps the film engaging, even during its most ridiculous moments. Topher Grace is also a standout as the eccentric Mr. Whiley, whose commitment to directing the school play results in some of the film’s funniest scenes.
The film is directed by writer, director and producer Marty Schousboe, whose previous work includes Joe Pera Talks with You (2018), Party Time Party Time (2013) and A Maine Movie (2018). For Never Change!, Schousboe collaborates with comedy production company American High and actor, writer, producer John Reynolds, bringing together a team with a strong background in offbeat, character-driven comedy.
Never Change! is a delightfully ridiculous ensemble comedy filled with slapstick humor, awkward situations and sharp, dry wit. While the film throws plenty of jokes at the audience, not every one of them landed for me, personally. Even so, I appreciated the originality of the premise, the commitment of the cast and the film’s willingness to fully embrace its unconventional style. It may not resonate with every viewer’s sense of humor, but for those who enjoy quirky, offbeat comedies with a touch of nostalgic high school satire, Never Change! could make for a genuinely entertaining watch.