Drillbit Taylor (2008)

Drillbit Taylor Poster

Three kids hire a low-budget bodyguard to protect them from the playground bully, not realising he is just a homeless beggar and petty thief looking for some easy cash.

Introduction
"Drillbit Taylor" is an American comedy film directed by Steven Brill, produced by Judd Apatow, and starring Owen Wilson. Launched in 2008, the motion picture focuses on three high-school students using a low-budget bodyguard to protect them from a school bully. The movie is enjoyed for its comical touches and the outstanding efficiency by Owen Wilson.

Plot Summary
The motion picture begins with the entry of 3 newbies, Wade (Nate Hartley), Ryan (Troy Gentile), and Emmit (David Dorfman), into their very first year of high school. They soon find themselves targets of unflinching bullies, with Filkins (Alex Frost) being the fiercest of them all. The consistent bullying and the school administration's inactiveness presses the trio to employ individual defense.

When the boys come across a self-proclaimed bodyguard, Drillbit Taylor (Owen Wilson), they see hope for their safety. Taylor, a homeless veteran claiming to have black-ops abilities and providing an aura of machismo, convinces the young boys of his ability to protect them. However, truthfully, he sees this chance as an easy way to rob them and finance his imagine transferring to Canada.

Character Development and Plot Progression
Quickly, Drillbit starts his pseudo 'training' with the young boys. During this time, though initially wishing to rob them, Drillbit gradually starts caring for the trio. Events deviate when Drillbit falls for the school's English instructor, Lisa (Leslie Mann). He, then, impersonates a substitute instructor to win her over, showing his psychological side and the capacity for change from a schemer to a man of character.

On the other hand, contrarily to Drillbit's improvement, Filkins escalates his bullying. He remains a consistent risk to the boys' safety, neglecting the protective procedures apparently put forth by Drillbit. The narrative takes a suspenseful turn when the school principal begins an investigation to discover the secret substitute instructor, leading Drillbit into the prospect of getting exposed.

Climax and Conclusion
Ending on an extreme note, the boys learn about Drillbit's original plan to rob them, making them feel betrayed. Subsequently, Drillbit confesses his deceits to Lisa and returns the taken items prior to getting collared by the polices. The climax is marked by a last face-off in between Filkins and the kids, in which the kids, utilizing their 'training' from Drillbit, handle to withstand and defeat Filkins.

The movie wraps up on a feel-good note as Drillbit leaves from prison, is pardoned by the kids for his actions, and is last seen working as a bodyguard-- this time genuinely protecting others rather than exploiting them. In essence, the movie humorously showcases the improvement of both Drillbit and the trio, and their journey from being bullied to defending themselves.

General Review
Although "Drillbit Taylor" does not avoid showcasing the severe concern of bullying, it turns it into a narrative loaded with delight, laughter, and moments of anticipation, largely attributable to the comedic talents of Owen Wilson. Notably, the film handles to preserve a balance between humor and addressing the issue, making it satisfying and relatable for various audiences.

Top Cast

  • Owen Wilson (small)
    Owen Wilson
    Drillbit Taylor
  • Leslie Mann (small)
    Leslie Mann
    Lisa
  • Nate Hartley (small)
    Nate Hartley
    Wade
  • Troy Gentile (small)
    Troy Gentile
    Ryan
  • David Dorfman (small)
    David Dorfman
    Emmit
  • Alex Frost (small)
    Alex Frost
    Filkins
  • Josh Peck (small)
    Josh Peck
    Ronnie
  • Casey Boersma
    Chuck
  • Dylan Boersma
    Nick
  • Lisa Ann Walter (small)
    Lisa Ann Walter
    Dolores
  • Beth Littleford (small)
    Beth Littleford
    Barbara