National Lampoon's Van Wilder: The Rise of Taj

National Lampoon's Van Wilder: The Rise Of Taj is a 2006 comedy sequel to the 2002 film, Van Wilder. The film is directed by Mort Nathan and is a palpable blend of comedy and romance. The title character, Taj Badalandabad, is played by actor Kal Penn, who adds his own charm and quirk to the movie.

The movie's narrative picks up from where the original script of Van Wilder left off. Taj, Van Wilder's personal assistant and a crowd-pleasing character from the earlier film, moves from being a supporting character to the lead role. He sets off to study in England's prestigious Camford University after leaving his mentor, Van Wilder at Coolidge College in America.

The comical journey of our eccentric protagonist Taj begins when he is denied access into the elite, prestigious and snobbish fraternity, Fox and Hounds, despite his unique charm and distinctive skills. He then takes up residence at The Barn, a derelict house on the outskirts of the university, which is also home to a group of social misfits.

The characters residing in The Barn, a collection of social outcasts and exceptionally intelligent but socially awkward students, unify under Taj's spirited leadership. Each member has their idiosyncrasy yet forms a familial bond under Taj's championship, teaching us about unity in diversity and acceptance of individuality.

However, the heart of the movie is when Taj, with his charisma, sharp wit, and large-hearted nature, inspires his new friends to surpass their insecurities. Taj's new band of brothers, along with the attractive Charlotte, played by Lauren Cohan, compete in an ancient and prestigious university competition against the snobbish Fox and Hounds fraternity. Here, the movie beautifully captures the essence of team spirit and the power of underdogs.

What makes the journey more life-filled is the romance between Taj and Charlotte, who is connected to the Fox and Hounds fraternity. The chemistry between Kal Penn and Lauren Cohan is sparkling and adds a romantic herculean dimension to the hilarious narrative. The intriguing love tale of a commoner and an upper-crust girl plays out beautifully on the screen, thanks to the actors and their engaging performances.

The antagonist, Pip Everett, the Earl of Grey, played by Daniel Percival, serves as the wealthy and snobbish leader of the Fox and Hounds, and rival to both Taj and Charlotte. He champions a traditional English arrogance that adds friction and challenges to the narrative, thereby highlighting the class warfare aspect of the story.

National Lampoon's Van Wilder: The Rise of Taj provides numerous opportunities for laughter, with several humorous incidents and seamless comical performances by the actors. The direction by Mort Nathan splendidly weaves together the various comic sequences within the story, keeping the audiences engaged throughout. Littered with gags that range from witty to slapstick, the movie delivers a humorous take on life at an upscale university in England.

Despite being a comedy, the script also has embedded lessons on acceptance, diversity, and friendship. It tactfully handles the underlying themes of bullying, class disparities, and the struggles faced by those standing different. The camaraderie between the team members, though diverse in characteristics, makes for a jovial watch.

The underdog story of victory against a powerful adversary, the journey of self-discovery, and the unconventional mentor-mentee relationship all contribute to an extremely entertaining viewing experience. National Lampoon's Van Wilder: The Rise of Taj is indeed an enjoyable comedy experience set in a university backdrop. Its motley mix of humor, romance, and life lessons makes it a complete package of entertainment. Its lighthearted, enjoyable narrative makes it a film one can watch and rewatch for a good laugh.