Nerdland

Synopsis

Nerdland is an animated comedy that follows the misadventures of two best friends, aspiring screenwriter and actor, who live in Los Angeles. Paul Rudd voices the charismatic but down-on-his-luck character alongside another prominent actor. The duo's life takes a turn when they concoct a wild scheme to achieve fame and fortune quickly. As they navigate through their chaotic attempts to break into the world of Hollywood, they grapple with identity, ambition, and the often absurd nature of living in the celebrity-obsessed culture of modern-day Los Angeles. Throughout their escapades, the film cleverly showcases satire and humor, providing a poignant reflection on the difficulties of chasing dreams while encapsulating the trials of nerd culture and the quest for acceptance.

Cast

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  Paul Rudd

  John (voice)

• 

  Patton Oswalt

  Elliot (voice)

• 

  Hannibal Buress

  The Nerd King (voice)

• 

  Riki Lindhome

  Linda (voice)

• 

  Kate Micucci

  Sally (voice)

• 

  Mike Judge

  Archie (voice)

Reviews

Upon its release, Nerdland received mixed to negative reviews from critics and audiences alike. With an IMDb rating of 5.3/10, a disappointing 21% score on Rotten Tomatoes, and a Metacritic rating of 46/100, the film's reception was less than favorable. Critics often highlighted the film's attempt at humor but noted its overall execution fell flat. For instance, a review from The Guardian stated, 'Nerdland tries hard to be irreverent and absurd, yet often stumbles into tedious and uninspired territory.' Some reviews did commend the voice performances, noting, 'Paul Rudd's charisma brings a spark that elevates the dull script, but it’s not enough to save the overall disjointed narrative.' The animation style also garnered mixed opinions, with one critic from Collider pointing out, 'The unique visual aesthetic is a highlight, yet it cannot compensate for the underdeveloped plot and characters.' Despite its charm and attempts to reflect the challenges faced by aspiring artists, many felt the film did not live up to its potential, leaving it as a forgettable entry in the animation genre.