Incoming (2024) Movie Review

Incoming 2024 Movie Review: Freshman Frenzy Explored

Apr 22, 2025 4 min read Incoming 2024 Movie Review: Freshman Frenzy Explored backdrop image

Jumping Into the Cacophony of Youthful Chaos

Welcome to an uproarious ride through adolescent tribulations with Incoming (2024), a sharp and quintessentially teen-focused comedy directed by the dynamic duo Dave Chernin and John Chernin. This movie review dives into the comedic whirlpool of teenage angst as four freshmen crash into their first high school party, unfolding a series of hilarious misadventures that make us grateful for surviving our own perilous teenage years.

Where Awkward Meets Adorable: Navigating Adolescent Maelstrom

The plot of Incoming is delightfully simple yet embraces the universal trials of adolescent life with an intensity that stirs nostalgia. Our ensemble of protagonists, portrayed unforgettably by Mason Thames, Ali Gallo, Kaitlin Olson, among others, grapple with the dreaded yet exhilarating milestone — their first high school party. Think 'Superbad' meets 'Ferris Bueller’s Day Off', with a touch of modern flair and Snapchat filters. The film spins the usual teen drama into a comedy that's as honest as it is hilarious, making you snort with laughter at one moment and cringe in secondhand embarrassment the next. Dave and John Chernin have crafted a narrative tapestry that epitomizes the chaotic essence of puberty in full bloom.

The Stellar Cast: A Blend of Wit and Warmth

The impressive cast of Incoming navigates their roles with commendable ease—a shoutout to Thomas Barbusca, who steals the spotlight with his iPhone-ready humor and perpetually befuddled expressions. Kaitlin Olson embodies parental befuddlement like only she can, seamlessly transitioning from nurturing protector to a woman befuddled by the chaos adolescence wreaks on her offspring. The screenplay, a testament to the Chernin brothers' knack for sharp humor, is executed with precision, marrying witty dialogue with visual gags. It’s like combining chef's kiss moments of observational humor with the slapstick energy of a prime-time sitcom.

Where Does 'Incoming' Fit in the Pantheon of Teen Comedies?

In the illustrious array of teen comedies, Incoming stands not just as an offbeat reflection of youthful folly but as a testament to the timelessness of growing pains. It aligns itself with classics like 'Mean Girls' and 'American Pie', while maintaining a modern sensibility reminiscent of the tech-savvy generation it portrays. Fans of Dave and John Chernin’s previous works, just dipping their toes into the comedy ocean, will find that their ease in blendinhighbrow jokes with lowbrow hijinks maintains the delicate balance frequently challenged within this genre.

The Final Verdict: A Riotous Ride You Shouldn't Miss

In the world of comedy, Incoming masters the art of turning a simple premise into a cinematic joyride — where each misstep and mischief is flavored with both riotous humor and deep-seated sincerity. Dave and John Chernin serve an irresistible cocktail that captures both the sweet and chaotic tones of teenage life. For those with a penchant for must-watch films, don’t pass up the opportunity to relive and relish the tapestry of youthful exuberance that Incoming so perfectly encapsulates. Trust us, this is one house party invitation you won’t want to decline.