Most of us have a moment from High School we wish we could redo. It’s a time when trivial things feel much bigger than they are. Though high school can hold cherished memories, for some, it is hard to let go of the past.
In the new comedy “Re-Election”, Jimmy Bauer (director-writer-producer ADAM SAUNDERS), is still haunted by the loss of his race for class president during his senior year back in 1995, which caused him to drop out of school. Now, he’s in his 40’s working in a memorabilia store owned by his dad (Tony Danza). Finally fed up with his mediocre life, Jimmy decides to go back to school for his missing class credits — and with the hopes of winning the Senior Class President election he believes will make his life right. But a lot has changed in 30 years, luckily with the help of his new friend Noa (Bex Taylor-Klaus) and former classmate-turned-girlfriend Ama (Nathalie Kelley), Jimmy will learn there are things more important in life than winning.
Saunders pulls details from his personal life into his feature debut. He grew up in Texas and went to Richardson High School where he was class president. While in some ways it is a story we have seen before, Saunders’ personal ties provide a nostalgic and authentic presentation to a familiar story.
“Re-Election” has some solid laughs especially from Saunders and his on-screen rival, Rizwan Manji. Personally, I could have been entertained just watching these to banter for an hour and half. Thankfully, you are treated to a hilarious video of Manji during the credits.
In addition to the film’s humor, there is a lot of heart. Jimmy has a sweet relationship with his sister (Patty Guggenheim), who encourages him to finish High School and believes he is capable of much more than he gives himself credit for. And there is a touching friendship with Jimmy and his new classmate, Noa (Taylor-Klaus).
Moviegoers can benefit from this light-hearted and easy watch. “Re-Election” is a short and sweet, fun stroll down memory lane with an inspiring future.
Rating: B-