Review of Charlie Bartlett (2008) by Patp — 24 Feb 2008

In my opinion, this is another case of a deceptively well made movie trailer. I went in expecting something fresh and different, but wound up experiencing an occasionally entertaining, but heavily flawed movie.

It continually reminded the audience that it was similar but inferior to Wes Anderson's classic Rushmore. There were some very funny scenes sprinkled throughout, and the overall premise and several of the characters were pretty strong.

Unfortunately most of these strengths are overshadowed by the glaring flaws, including: some very illogical scenes that shatter the suspension of disbelief, the predictable plot, and personally I was quite annoyed by the numerous "high schoolers" that appeared to be closer to baby boomers than teenagers.

Overall, this movie does not really deliver on its promise, or on the quirky fun shown in the trailer, and ended up disappointingly mediocre.