The new “Entourage” film, directed, produced, and written by the brilliant Doug Ellin, is nothing less than an excellent homage to the television series by the same title. We got a sneak peak of the film at the Greenwich International Film Festival.
The film continues the storyline of the series, depicting the career of movie star and director Vincent Chase (Adrian Grenier), as well as the lives of his entourage of friends (Kevin Connolly, Kevin Dillon, and Jerry Ferrara). When the movie Chase decides to both direct and star in goes over budget by $15 million, studio head Ari Gold (Jeremy Piven) must turn to a Texan financier and his son to secure the extra cash (Billy Bob Thornton, Haley Joel Osment). While the film’s greater storyline is that of Chase and his movie, it does not fail to show the individual stories of Chase’s entourage. The subplots of the entourage are expertly depicted to give color to the supporting characters without taking away from the main arc of the film. Just like the television show it is adapted from, the movie gives light to each of the four members of the entourage, rather than focusing solely on Chase.
The film also features many well-known celebrity actors in minor roles, such as Debi Mazar, Constance Zimmer, Kid Cudi, Martin Landau, and Bow Wow. In addition, over thirty cameos, ranging from Warren Buffet to Ronda Rousey, appear throughout the film. Some are merely single-scene actors providing comedy and context to the lives of the leads, while others are seen as recurring characters who are necessary components of both the smaller and larger storylines of the film.
Entourage leaves nothing to be desired. It features an all-star cast nearly identical to that of the television show as well as wide range of action, from financial disputes to love triangles to personal emotional journeys. Describing Entourage as anything but a comedic film would be and injustice, being that expertly crafted comedy can be found at every turn. Be it the candid and comically lewd remarks of Drama (Dillon) or Murphy’s Law in action in Eric Murphy’s (Connolly) romantic life, all types of humor are appealed to in this film. The comedy found in ‘Entourage’ is a perfect mix between Judd Apatow and Jay Roach; a surefire hit among all audiences looking for comedic entertainment. This is not only due to the excellent timing and portrayals done by the actors, but also Ellin composed the script to feature the strengths the actors and the cameos to assure everyone was shown in their best light.
However, Entourage is no groundless comedy. Despite the main focus being the humor of the drama, the characters are seen as three-dimensional beings. Behind the comedy there is an emotional journey taken by the members of the entourage and growth can be seen throughout the film. Even Drama (Dillon), who is characterized by his blunt and sarcastic remarks, is confronted with emotional journeys and self-discovery. While he still maintains his comedic edge, there is sympathy to be found in his journey, as well as the journeys of all other members of the entourage.
Overall, Entourage is a perfect film for anyone looking for a light-hearted yet exciting comedy, regardless of the level of familiarity with the television series. It includes something for everyone, be it witty commentary, romantic turbulence, or even just appearances by a favorite celebrity. Whether there is a desire to laugh for one hundred minutes straight, or just to experience the magnificent follow-up to the television show, Entourage will deliver. The film falls nothing short of the television series; straightforward, enticing, and an altogether fun experience for everyone involved.
The film hits theaters this Wednesday.
-Liam Orly
