Accepted

Accepted is a 2006 comedy film packed with humor, teenage angst, and heartfelt moments of realizing one's self-worth. Bartleby Gaines, played by the talented Justin Long, is the lead character, and he sets off a chain of events that are as chaotic as they are inspiring.

Bartleby Gaines is a high school graduate like any other, filled with ideas and prospects about his future. The only barrier between him and his dreams is college acceptance, a hurdle that seems to trip him time and time again. After a series of rejections from all the colleges he applies to, Gaines finds himself in a pit of despair. Yet instead of wallowing in his predicament, he decides to take matters into his own hands.

The plot unfolds as Gaines embarks on an ambitious venture to create his own college - the South Harmon Institute of Technology, or S.H.I.T., a name that obviously gives away the humorous theme of the film. His ingenious idea springs from the growing pressure he feels from his parents and friends, who expect him to move on to the next stage of life - college. This fabricated university, developed with the help of Gaines’s friends, played by Jonah Hill and Blake Lively, serves as their newfound haven, a place where they can escape the judgement and expectations of society.

Gaines crafts a bogus website, a promising brochure, and even an old building to serve as their campus to mirror the illusion of a legitimate institution. His plight and desperation to fit into the mould dictated by society forms the core of Accepted and endows the movie with an unexpected depth, beneath its comedic exterior.

Surprisingly, this fake institution catches the eye of several other college rejects who, like Gaines and his friends, feel left out of society’s academic expectations. The film takes a comic turn when hundreds of students show up to attend the fake college, drawn in by the allure of an institution that promises no rejections. The essence of ‘fake it till you make it’ is perfectly embodied by Bartleby and his friends as they scramble to meet the unexpected demand.

The film also introduces a romantic element, as Bartleby develops feelings for Monica, a beautiful but overworked student from the nearby Harmon College. Gaines’s quest to impress Monica, portrayed excellently by Blake Lively, adds another dimension to this ingenious plot.

However, what starts as a comedic deception rapidly evolves into a philosophical debate about the real meaning of education and the socio-cultural pressure of college acceptance. The narrative begins to question the traditional education system and whether it truly serves the individual needs of every student. The film's comedy is linked with a serious critique of educational conformity, demonstrating that there isn't necessarily a universal 'right' path for everyone after high school.

Justin Long, known for his comedy roles, shines in his role as Bartleby Gaines. His performance as the charismatic dreamer trying desperately to keep his lie afloat is engaging and authentic. Blake Lively gives depth to Monica's character, who is struggling with her academic pressure and the societal expectations of success. Jonah Hill provides comic relief but also a touch of sincerity as Gaines's best friend, Sherman Schrader, whose ultimate goal is to fit into a traditional college setting.

Accepted, directed by Steve Pink, wonderfully navigates through the themes of acceptance, individuality, friendship, and the true value of education, under the guise of a comedy film. The screenplay, co-written by Bill Collage, Adam Cooper, and Mark Perez, is witty and thought-provoking, with its balanced blend of humor and reflection.

In essence, Accepted is a light-hearted critique of the education system peppered generously with teen comedy elements. It’s a story of teenagers taking control of their future, demonstrating the lengths to which people will go to gain societal acceptance. On a deeper level, the film underscores the importance of making decisions based on own desires and capabilities, rather than merely conforming to societal expectations.

Overall, Accepted is more than just a comedy film. It is a journey of self-discovery, friendship, and of losing and finding oneself amidst the chaos that is life after high school. If you want to enjoy an evening bursting with laughter and thoughtful reflections, Accepted won’t disappoint.