Film Review: ‘The Napa Boys’ is Destined to Become a Cult Comedy Litmus Test

Comedy is obviously subjective. What’s funny to one person may not be to the next. When you get into alternative comedy and sketch comedians, that becomes even clearer. On the one hand, that means a film like The Napa Boys ends up being a bit of a litmus test. On the other, it means that for those the movie hits for, it’s going to be an absolute riot. The specificity and oddness of it all leads me to predict that this flick is a cult comedy in the making. It’s destined to be devoured on college campuses by those in the know, which is no small compliment to make.

The Napa Boys knows full well that it’s not going to be for everyone. Because of that, there’s a sense of freedom that allows the film to follow the beat of its own drummer. Folks who enjoy things like The Birthday Boys (of which, two members show up in this film), Funny or Die shorts, Tim Robinson‘s comedy shows, and Too Many Cooks will understand the tone here. If you’re down for that, this is going to be a hoot. If not? Well, you might end up rather puzzled, though frankly…it’s your loss.

The film is presented as the fourth chapter in a non-existent franchise known as The Napa Boys. To that point, the movie’s title is shown to actually be The Napa Boys 4: The Sommelier’s Amulet. Here, we have Jack Jr. (Nick Corirossi), his former cohort Miles Jr. (Armen Weitzman), and the rest of the Napa Boys, Kevin (Nelson Franklin) and Stifler’s Brother (Jamar Neighbors), coming back for one more adventure. This time, they’re also joined by Puck (Sarah Ramos), an investigative podcaster and their biggest fan, in the Wine Wagon™ as they head back to, you guessed it, Napa.

The adventure begins with them gathering at the winery of their old friend Mitch (Mike Mitchell), who is about to compete in the Greatest Grape competition. Of course, that goes sideways, leading them on a mission to save the day. That’s only the basis for a serious of very amusing jokes, one that includes an epic cameo by an unexpected duo, as well as a supernatural element known as the “Sommelier.” It’s everything you would expect from the newest installment in this epic, if made-up, franchise.

The cast are all in on the joke and utterly delighted to be doing something as singular as this. It’s an opportunity to play, as well as to make fun of how much fan service there is when beloved characters appear on screen. Nick Corirossi and Armen Weitzman (who are both filmmakers on the project) get to be the silliest and are on screen the most, but they very much share the comedy wealth. Nelson Franklin, Jamar Neighbors, and Sarah Ramos have their moments, but the supporting highlight here is Mike Mitchell, who does a lot with what could have been a one-joke role. He’s the most purely likable presence in the movie, so he’s essential to keeping you hooked, especially as things get even sillier and more out there as the plot progresses. Other players here include Chloe Cherry, Vanessa Chester, Beth Dover, Natasha Leggero, Riki Lindhome, Paul Rust, David Wain, Ray Wise, Ivy Wolk, and many more.

Nick Corirossi directs and co-writes, in addition to starring. Alongside co-writer and co-star Armen Weitzman, Corirossi has an impressive commitment to the bit. For just over 90 minutes, this never strays from its oddball premise, which plenty of filmmakers wouldn’t have had the courage to do. The Napa Boys is probably sacrificing a bigger audience and more of a notable box office by following this path, but the flick wouldn’t have its distinctive flavor without. Truly, doing it this was the only way to do it, so kudos to them for that. Does every joke land? No. Is it overall more than funny enough to recommend? You better believe it.

The Napa Boys has been a litmus test ever since its festival bow last year, will continue to be in the future, and deserves to find its dedicated audience. There’s one scene early on that may turn off a few more viewers than intended, but overall, it’s the vibe that you just have to jive with or not. Those who get on the wavelength of this film will feel like they discovered something. In that way, it’ll be as if they’re on the ground floor of a potential cult obsession. Those who just can’t understand the movie? Well, it wasn’t meant for you then, and I actually feel sorry for you, since silliness like this is part of why comedy rules.

SCORE: ★★★