Tag (2018) (4K Ultra HD Review)
Director: Jeff Tomsic
Starring: Ed Helms, Jake Johnson, Annabelle Wallis
RATED: R/REGION 0/2:39/2160p/NUMBER OF DISCS 1
AVAILABLE FROM Warner Bros.
In the bustling world of comedy films, it often takes just a clever premise and a charming ensemble to create a memorable cinematic experience. Sadly, “Tag” falls flat on both counts, leaving audiences feeling like they’ve been left out of a party that seemed promising from the invite but turned out to be sorrowfully dull by the time one arrived.
Based on a thrilling true story of a group of childhood friends who have kept their game of tag alive into adulthood, “Tag” tries to capitalize on nostalgia and the infectious joy of friendship. The premise, simple yet evocative, draws you in with thoughts of unending camaraderie and the spirit of competition. Yet, what could have been a delightful exploration of friendships through the years devolves into a disjointed series of slapstick gags and underdeveloped characters.
The film is littered with comedic moments that land flat, often relying on crude humor and predictable set-ups that fail to impress. The jarring tonal shifts—from moments meant to invoke laughter to sudden attempts at sentimentality—leave the audience jaded. One guideline of comedy is that the laughter should flow naturally from character development, but here, it seems more like a checklist of clichés. The forced camaraderie among the characters feels more like a setup to each joke than the genuine bonds that are suggested, making it hard to root for anyone.
Jeremy Renner, Ed Helms, and Jake Johnson share the screen, but despite their undeniable talent, they struggle to transcend the poorly written script, ultimately leaving their characters feeling one-dimensional and cartoonish. Renner, often the action star, is given the mantle of the seemingly invincible player in this game, but rather than expressing a nuanced range of emotions, he simply comes across as smug. The comedy, rather than complementing the character arcs, ironically points out their shortcomings as each character runs the risk of being defined solely by their childlike pursuit.
From a directorial standpoint, Jeff Tomsic seems unsure of what tone to strike. Visually, the film doesn’t offer much beyond the typical landscape of a sunny suburban American backdrop. While the cinematography does capture some lively outdoor action, it lacks the inventive flair that could have elevated this film beyond its basic premise. The editing, too, feels uneven—pacing alternates erratically between frenetic play and awkward lulls, making you question what moment was intended to hold emotional weight and which one was merely intended for a laugh.
The score could have been a saving grace for the film, adding an emotional undercurrent to the comedy, yet it retreats into the background, failing to leave any lasting impression. It’s as if the soundtrack was a mere afterthought, blending into the cacophony without adding to the mood or heightening emotional stakes.
In many ways, “Tag” epitomizes the danger of declining to develop a concept beyond its initial spark. While the idea of grown men engaging in an extravagant, years-long game of tag could have provided fertile ground for both humor and introspection about the bonds we forge, it instead becomes a tiresome endeavor. By the end, you’re left feeling slightly amused but largely disengaged—a party trick that lingers just long enough for you to realize you’re the one who’s the target of the joke.
Ultimately, “Tag” is a game of near misses, where the laughter remains elusive. What could have been a refreshing romp filled with heartfelt moments instead lapses into a forgettable string of antics that leaves you feeling more exhausted than entertained. It raises the question: How can we reconnect with our inner children when the game we’re watching fails to capture the spirit of playfulness? In this case, I would recommend skipping out on the action and seeking more original fare.
Extras
- Bloopers
- Deleted Scenes
- Meet the Real Tag Brothers Featurette
