Bad Words

2014 • 88 minutes
4.1
2.71K reviews
65%
Tomatometer
R
Rating
Eligible
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About this movie

Jason Bateman makes his feature directorial debut with the subversive comedy, Bad Words. Bateman stars as Guy Trilby, a 40-year-old who finds a loophole in the rules of The Golden Quill national spelling bee and decides to cause trouble by hijacking the competition. Contest officials, outraged parents, and overly ambitious 8th graders are no match for Guy, as he ruthlessly crushes their dreams of victory and fame. As a reporter (Kathryn Hahn) attempts to discover his true motivation, Guy finds himself forging an unlikely alliance with a competitor: awkward 10-year-old Chaitanya (Rohan Chand), who is completely unfazed by Guy's take-no-prisoners approach to life. Critics rave, Bad Words is "the funniest, smartest, most entertaining comedy in a long time!" (Pete Hammond, Movieline)
Rating
R

Ratings and reviews

4.1
2.71K reviews
William Heining
September 23, 2014
Main character Guy Trilby (anagram for guilty bry!!) is the complete opposite of the politically correct, living-vicariously thru their children's accomplishments, "lets all play Fair" other members of his age group in this story. His ambition is honest and not cloaked by sham obeisance to expected norms. To those critical I say - "It's a Movie people!! It's Not even a documentary, it's for our Entertainment and I, for one, find sticking a pin in the phonies in all "youth" contests Hilarious!!
7 people found this review helpful
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tim romero
August 6, 2014
Solid comedy. Not used to seeing Bateman act like such a jerk but he surprisingly played it well. I laughed quite a bit at how much of a douche he was to everyone but you slowly understand why he is that way. And all the while develops an awkward friendship with a 9 year old. Didn't expect it but thoroughly enjoyed the times they shared the good and bad were hilarious. Through all the laughs there is still heartfelt moments leaving you with a smile when it's over. Fun flick worth a watch
28 people found this review helpful
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Brian Brinkley
September 13, 2014
After seeing Bateman in Horrible Bosses, I was looking forward to see how far he could stretch his comedic abilities. This film definitely showed his skills off. His character's callus and bitter attitude is truly felt throughout the film. In the end, when you are trying to figure out why he is that way, you get a plausible (albeit somewhat predictable) answer. Definitely worth renting.
4 people found this review helpful
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