Post Grad **

Starring Alexis Bledel, Zachary Gilford, Michael Keaton, Jane Lynch and Carol Burnett.
Rated PG-13.
Directed by Vicky Jenson.
Written by Kelly Fremon.


* *

Reyden Malby (Alexis Bledel) has her future planned out to perfection: get all A’s in high school, nab a full scholarship to a great college, graduate with honors, and get her dream job at a publishing company. But it’s well-known that the best laid plans of mice and men often go awry. Reyden doesn’t get her dream job and she ends up back where she started, living at home with her kooky family.

Unfortunately, Reyden’s “nightmare” situation is a harsh reality for the thousands of recent college graduates across America. The running theme in the film, that a graduate can have the most distinguished credentials, a practiced interview speech and yet still get nowhere in the job market, rings true.

While the subject should be very relatable to “post grads” everywhere, it doesn’t help that Bledel’s acting comes across as dull. She seems about as “devastated” over her jobless situation as someone who just dropped their ice cream cone on the sidewalk. Her shallow acting mixed with several poorly written scenes adds up to some awkward and cringe-worthy moments within the film.

The comedic wiles of Jane Lynch, Michael Keaton, and Carol Burnett add some spice to the film, which is much needed to buffer Bledel’s boring character. But even their punchlines are lacking, due to the writing more than their acting skills.

The most inspiring theme viewers can pull from the movie (and this is a bit of a reach) is that although things don't turn out exactly as planned, graduates still have a vast new world within their reach. There are ample chances to plunge in headfirst and enjoy what life throws their way. Sometimes, living life a little unplanned is the best way to gain fulfillment.

As for Alexis Bledel's acting and Reyden's character, they both could use a little more depth and development. Better to wait until the DVD hits Blockbuster shelves.