Only after this year’s fantastically funny new series “Man Seeking Woman” did I ever appreciate Jay Baruchel presence. The FXX series, easily the best new show I’ve seen this year (although I haven’t seen “Bloodline” yet), is highly inventive and way more inspired and clever than your average 20-something-based sitcom, and Baruchel carries the show with as much stride as an awkward lead character can.
Now converted to Baruchel’s on-screen work, I’m curious to see what he can do behind the camera. In addition to co-starring in the 2011 hockey comedy Goon, he also helped pen the screenplay beside Evan Goldberg, and with a sequel to the film in the works, Baruchel is pushing for more involvement. As he returns to this sequel, Goon: Last of the Enforcers, as a writer alongside Jesse Chabot and actor, reprising the loud, foul-mouthed best friend Pat, he will also now make his directorial debut on the feature.
In the new movie, Doug “The Thug” Glatt (Seann William Scott) finds his team, the Halifax Highlanders, working with a variety of new players during a pro lockout. Production starts in June in Toronto, where Baruchel takes over for Michael Dowes. Although Baruchel noted recently how he wanted to make comic adaptation Random Acts of Violence his directorial debut later this year, it looks as though this is going to be his first run behind the camera. Where this project fares now that Baruchel works steadfast on this comedy sequel is unknown.
The first Goon was charming for what it was, but it wasn’t anything particularly memorable or revolutionary. A sequel, of course, is not needed, but considering the first wasn’t a full-out success it would seem this is more a passion project than your average, run-of-the-mill comedy sequel. We’ll see however. In the meantime, seriously check out “Man Seeking Woman.” It’s very much worth your time, and it already has a second season in the works. [THR]
