Waking up after 20 years in a coma sounds like a nightmare, but in this movie, it’s the perfect setup for comedy and nostalgia. Senior Year stars Rebel Wilson as Stephanie, a high school cheerleader who goes into a coma after a disastrous cheerleading accident, only to wake up two decades later. Set in the present day, the film jumps between the early 2000s and modern times, contrasting the teenage culture of yesteryears with today’s trends. It’s a comedy that blends high school drama with a coming-of-age story, wrapped in a nostalgic bubble.
The plot revolves around Stephanie’s determination to reclaim her high school glory and finally win the title of prom queen. As she returns to her old high school, now as a 37-year-old, she encounters a vastly different social landscape. From social media influencers to woke culture, Stephanie’s journey is not just about finishing high school but also learning to navigate a world that has moved on without her. While her character clings to the past, the film explores themes of identity, growth, and acceptance. Without giving away too much, the movie sets up plenty of comedic moments as Stephanie awkwardly adjusts to this new world while still chasing the dreams she had as a teenager.
One of the standout aspects of the movie is Rebel’s performance. Known for her comedic timing, she delivers an entertaining, if somewhat predictable, performance as Stephanie. She plays the character with a blend of self-confidence and vulnerability that works well in the context of the film. Whether she’s reliving her cheerleading days or fumbling through modern high school norms, Rebel brings her signature humor to the role, creating moments of both laughter and empathy. Supporting performances by Sam Richardson as Seth and Mary Holland as Martha, Stephanie’s old friends, are solid, with both actors adding depth and heart to their roles, balancing out Rebel’s more over-the-top comedic style.
The film’s direction by Alex Hardcastle leans heavily into nostalgia. From the early 2000s fashion references to the throwback music (think Britney Spears and Nelly), the movie has a clear sense of time and place. The costume design, especially, deserves a mention for capturing the Y2K era, juxtaposed against today’s trends. In terms of editing, the pacing of the film is brisk, with quick cuts between flashbacks and the present, keeping the energy high. However, some of the comedic sequences feel a bit forced, especially when the humor relies too much on comparing past and present culture.
The musical effects also add to the film’s nostalgic charm. Tracks from the 2000s will strike a chord with audiences who grew up during that time. The soundtrack serves as a bridge between Stephanie’s past and her present, while the cinematography plays up the vibrancy of high school life. The bright colors, neon lights, and peppy cheer routines give the movie an exaggerated, almost dream-like quality, which fits with the idea of Stephanie trying to relive her teenage dreams.
Where the movie falters, though, is in its predictability. Many of the plot points feel familiar, and the film doesn’t take many risks in terms of narrative or character development. The conflicts are largely surface-level, and while there are attempts at heartfelt moments, they often get overshadowed by the next joke or comedic bit. The themes of self-acceptance and moving forward are clear, but they’re handled in a fairly simplistic way. The movie also plays it safe with its social commentary, touching on modern issues like social media and cancel culture without delving too deeply into them.
Overall, Senior Year is a light-hearted, feel-good movie that delivers on its promise of humor and nostalgia. Rebel shines in her role, and while the film isn’t groundbreaking in its storytelling or themes, it offers enough laughs and sentimental moments to keep audiences entertained. It’s perfect for a casual watch, especially if you’re in the mood for a throwback to the early 2000s, but don’t expect anything beyond a predictable, albeit fun, journey. If you’re a fan of Rebel’s comedic style or enjoy films that blend modern culture with a heavy dose of nostalgia, then this one is worth a watch.
