Title: Fat Kid Rules The World
Directed by: Matthew Lillard
Starring: Jacob Wysocki, Matt O’Leary and Billy Campbell
Running time: 99 minutes, Rated R, Available on Blu-ray
Special Features: Five Featurettes and Trailer
A suicidal obese high school kid steps in front of a bus and is saved by a dropout aspiring musician wanting to recruit him as the drummer in his start-up band.
Jacob Wysocki is Troy, the invisible fat kid in school who suddenly becomes known and somewhat popular after the outgoing Marcus befriends him. Marcus of course is a bad influence, but he gives Troy the courage to come out of his shell. Troy is sad to watch, but you root for him throughout the film even when he seems hopeless and embarrassing.
Billy Campbell as the dad was refreshing. He was a tough dad, but a loving dad. He wants his son to take any opportunity to be social and have a life, but still be a stoic authority figure who wants the best for his kids. Great portrayal of what a parent should be. Matt O’Leary performs the character Marcus as if it were written for Matthew Lillard; though now I want to read the novel because his character is frustrating, yet endearing; he reminds me of one of my best friends growing up.
It’s been almost 10 years since he’s acted in something I went out of my way to see, but I feel Matthew Lillard has found a new niche as a director.
Reviewed by: JM Willis
Total Rating: A
