Jason Bateman makes his directorial debut with Bad Words, and it tells the story of a 40 year-old man weaseling his way into a children’s spelling bee competition. He has a personal vendetta for why he is doing this, and for almost the entire movie you are trying to figure out why he is doing this, but he won’t let anyone know. He then starts getting rid of his competition of children by doing some very obnoxious things, and somehow makes friends with a little Indian boy. This film will likely offend parents with no sense of humor.
In the past two weeks, I’ve watched this movie three times. That’s how much I loved it. You just cannot go wrong with Jason Bateman, and the fact that he directed the movie made it that much sweeter. His character is beyond obnoxious, but you still want to see what he does or says next, and you still route for him to succeed, even though he is being a complete ass to these children who worked so hard to get where they are. The chemistry between Bateman and the kid, Rohan Chand, is stellar. They are the complete polar opposites from one and other, and just works so well with the story. Kathryn Hahn also brings her comedic timing as Bateman’s sponsor, and their scenes together brings on all kinds of awkward chuckles.
I highly suggest seeing this movie, especially if you’re a Jason Bateman fan. Again, this movie is not for everyone, so if you or someone you know is easily offended by explicit language that involves children, stay away. Check out my video review below to hear me ramble about this movie.