Do you remember 2006’s “Beerfest?” It may have been a mostly forgettable experience. The film, by comedy troupe Broken Lizard, garnered mostly poor reviews as an unfunny frat-house flick. For some it’s a contender for the worst movie ever made—but “Beerfest” may deserve a little more credit from critics and audiences alike.
Here’s a quick dive into the film’s ups and downs.
There Aren’t Many Films Like It
“Beerfest” came at a time when comedic directors like Judd Apatow had started to become more popular. Hits like “Superbad,” “Hot Fuzz,” and “School of Rock” defined the early 2000s comedy movie scene. There wasn’t much out there like “Beerfest.” Broken Lizard had already released “Super Troopers” and “The Dukes of Hazzard,” but no other producers or directors had unveiled similar projects.
In some ways, “Beerfest” makes a name for itself because it’s unique. Who’s ever seen a film about sheer drunkenness presented so bluntly? As characters Todd and Jan Wolfhouse stumble through Germany with other drinkers, it’s a spectacle to behold.
Maybe you’re partial to “American Pie” or “Animal House” when it comes to alcohol-centric party movies, but you have to appreciate that “Beerfest” can hold its own. After all, you can’t ignore the fact that Beerfest made more than $20 million at the box office. It’s no “Avatar,” but it’s no “Steel,” either.
The Humor Hits Home for a Wide Audience
Like it or not, it’s clear that there’s an audience for the “Beerfest” “brand” of humor. This move was made for anyone who’s still a kid at heart. It probably resonates more with teenage and adult males than anyone else, but that’s okay. Broken Lizard knew that moviegoers didn’t expect to see an Oscar-worthy film. That wasn’t their intention—and they accomplished what they set out to accomplish.
The humor that “Beerfest” pours out alongside its alcoholic beverages garnered a 75% score from audiences.”
Today, “Beerfest” probably isn’t a top choice for anyone who wants to sit through a non-movie. It hasn’t aged well. There’s more than one way to drink beer. Other options like IPAs and crowlers have become increasingly popular for drinkers worldwide—a fact that ages the film considerably.
Still, it’s impossible to ignore that people find movies like “Beerfest” funny. This raunchy, middle-school-esque comedy works. Maybe for some more than others, but it works. The humor the movie pours out alongside its alcoholic beverages garnered a 75% score from audiences. That’s not half-bad for a movie that features barely any plot at all.
It’s All About the Viewers’ Perspective
“Beerfest” centers its entire plot around—and makes no apologies for it.
All films are subjective and so is criticism. As a result, it’s up to you to determine whether a movie warrants acclaim. While critics across the board may regard this selection as an unenjoyable pass, it’s all about perspective. A film doesn’t have to be classically “good” for it to be your favorite. If you laugh when someone falls off a table, it’s likely that you’ll view “Beerfest” as an occasionally-fun watch.
In many respects, “Beerfest” deserves a nod for its somewhat innovative concept. A movie that encompasses beer and only beer has never been done before. This feat may not seem so important to cinephiles—but it resonates with people who prefer obnoxious, frat house humor to much else. Viewers can’t discredit the film when it’s suitable for 13-year-old boys, as was its goal.
Maybe “Beerfest” deserves a better reception. It’s not the funniest movie you’ll ever see and people don’t have to digest it as a satirical feat, either. That said, viewers should recognize “Beerfest” as a classic. It set the stage for later party-heavy movies such as “Project X” and “21 & Over.” You could even draw connections between Broken Lizard as a whole and films like “Dirty Grandpa.”
‘Beerfest’ Deserves a Little More Credit
It’d be far-fetched to call “Beerfest” an impressive, award-worthy movie. But critics and audiences alike should credit this objectively hilarious flick that’s considered a classic cult-favorite by many.
It paved the way for other films where it’s more important to sit on the couch and drink with the characters than care about a cohesive storyline. After all, that’s what makes “Beerfest,” “Beerfest.”
