High school comedies – they never change, but we do. Netflix’s latest addition, “Incoming,” comes from Dave and John Chernin, the minds behind “It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia” and the short-lived, wild ride that was Fox’s “The Mick.” This film is packed with all the familiar faces: the awkward freshman, the grumpy sister, the wannabe ladies’ man, and, of course, the queen bee. The Chernin brothers keep things moving at a brisk pace, relying more on quick gags than any deep storytelling.
Meet the Freshmen – Just Trying to Survive
“Incoming” kicks off with four freshmen navigating the minefield that is high school. Benj (Mason Thomas) thinks he’s got a shot with sophomore Bailey (Isabelle Ferreira), while Connor (Raphael Alejandro) is stuck with the unfortunate nickname “Fetus.” Then there’s Eddie (Ramon Reed), who can’t stand his mom’s rich boyfriend, and Danah (Bardia Seiri), who’s set on hooking up with a senior to boost his social status. A party at the end of the week is supposed to be their big break – but let’s be real, it’s just another party.
High School Nostalgia with a Modern Twist
Sure, “Incoming” throws in some modern touches like TikTok references and casual LGBTQ representation, but at its core, it’s drenched in that same nostalgia that fuels so many high school comedies. The movie treats every high school clique with a kind of warm fondness, even when the characters make questionable choices – like Danah’s creepy plan to trap his crush with security cameras. But don’t worry, he gets a swift and painful lesson in consequences, followed by quick forgiveness.
Raunchy… But Not Too Raunchy
While “Incoming” flirts with raunchiness – think k-holes and awkward nipple close-ups – it never really crosses the line. The four main guys have their insecurities, but they’re all guided by a strong sense of right and wrong. As the story branches out into separate subplots, that moral compass keeps the movie from diving into full-on debauchery.
The Side Characters Steal the Show
Where the Chernins really get creative is with the side characters. Bobby Cannavale plays a sad but friendly chemistry teacher who ends up partying with his students – a role that’s both funny and a bit tragic as he realizes his social circle is just a bunch of teens. Then there’s Ali Gallo as Benj’s sister Alyssa, fresh off a nose job and wheezing her way through one of the movie’s few moments that dare to be a bit mean-spirited, all for a good laugh.
More Sitcom Than Standalone Hit
In the end, “Incoming” wraps up with the kind of embarrassment that would be the talk of the school… if only for a week. The movie feels more like a sitcom pilot than a standalone film, introducing characters that are more defined by their quirks than any real depth. It’s funny, sure, but for all its R-rated potential, “Incoming” plays it safe. If you’re looking for a laugh, it delivers – just don’t expect it to break any new ground.