Drillbit Taylor opens with our introduction to the titular character, portrayed by Owen Wilson. He is a homeless man who panhandles along the nearby highway in an upscale California suburb. He and his homeless pals make a living swindling and stealing, with the occasional big idea to secure their future. Meanwhile, Ryan (Troy Gentile) and Wade (Nate Hartley) are beginning their high school career, excited about the possibility of popularity, but confronted with the reality of geekdom, compounded by drawing the attention of Filkins (Alex Frost), the class bully.

After days of avoiding school, in fear for their lives, they get the idea to hire a bodyguard. They meet with a few individuals before Drillbit walks in and convinces them that he is the right guy for the job. What follows is a series of life lessons that teach all parties a little about life and a lot about what lies beneath their surface.

The biggest problem with the title and the way the film has been advertised is that too much attention is paid to the Drillbit character and the big name star that is Owen Wilson. It is not that he is not an important cog in the wheel, and likely the primary box office draw, but the heart and soul of this movie lies within the two main kids as they deal with their adversary as well as themselves. It is a movie that is all about the funny, but it also has heart and character, and these kids have both.

It is credit to the writers that this film is as good as it is. It is not nearly as funny as Superbad, but there are still plenty of laughs to be had. What Brown, Rogen, and Hughes - sorry, Dantes - succeed in doing is delivering a film that has a mix of character and humor in a balance that allows both to shine.

Bottom line. Drillbit Taylor is a simple story told through the high concept of kids buying a bodyguard. It is a film that has consequences, it delivers flawed characters making sometimes poor decisions, but always attempting to do the right thing. It is a funny movie that does deliver what is promised.

Recommended.