Netflix's new teen comedy 'Incoming,' directed by Dave and John Chernin, attempts to channel the spirit of classic teen comedies like 'Superbad' but falls short in execution. Critics point out the film's reliance on clichéd gags, lack of original humor, and failure to develop engaging characters. While it features some moments of genuine connection and humor, 'Incoming' largely fails to leave a memorable impact, feeling more like a collection of tried-and-true tropes than a fresh take on the teen comedy genre.
Netflix's latest teen comedy, 'Incoming,' directed by Dave and John Chernin, aims to evoke the nostalgic charm of classic films like 'Superbad.' However, the film struggles to deliver on its promise, with critics noting its clichéd plot and lack of originality. The movie, featuring a cast of young actors, tries to balance outrageous humor with moments of genuine connection, but often falls into the trap of relying too heavily on familiar tropes and gross-out gags.
Critics have been less than enthusiastic about 'Incoming,' pointing out its many shortcomings. The film is described as clunky, with poorly timed jokes and a reliance on clichéd teen comedy elements. The dialogue often feels forced, and the comic timing is off, making the humor fall flat. Despite its aspirations to match 'Superbad,' 'Incoming' fails to deliver the same level of wit or charm, leaving much to be desired in both humor and narrative depth[1][2][3].
Despite its many flaws, 'Incoming' does have moments that shine through. Some critics noted the genuine connection between characters in quieter moments, and there are brief flashes of humor that hit the mark. The young actors, particularly Mason Thames, deliver performances that occasionally elevate the material. However, these moments are too few to save the film from its overall lack of originality and impact[3][4].
When compared to genre classics like 'Superbad,' 'Incoming' clearly struggles to carve out its own identity. The film's heavy reliance on past tropes and its inability to introduce fresh, engaging elements make it feel derivative rather than homage. The lack of depth in character development and the predictable plot further distance it from the impactful legacy of its predecessors[5].
Overall, 'Incoming' attempts to follow in the footsteps of iconic teen comedies but fails to deliver a memorable or innovative experience. The film's over-reliance on clichéd elements and lack of effective humor make it a forgettable entry in the genre. While there are moments of potential, they are not enough to overcome the film's overall shortcomings.