Is Adulthood The Worst Noir Comedy Ever Made? A Review.

Shawn

3 min read

Post on Sep 11, 2025

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Is Adulthood the Worst Noir Comedy Ever Made? A Review

Adulthood, Noel Clarke's 2008 British film, is a divisive one. While it found a dedicated fanbase and launched Clarke's career, many critics and viewers have dismissed it as messy, uneven, and ultimately, a failure. But is it truly the worst noir comedy ever made? Let's delve into a critical review and explore why it sparks such strong reactions.

A Gritty Look at Post-Teenage Life:

The film follows the lives of three friends – Sam, Jay, and Marlon – navigating the complexities of adulthood in contemporary London. It's a world far removed from the carefree days of their youth, a harsh reality punctuated by dead-end jobs, strained relationships, and the ever-present shadow of violence. This bleak setting, coupled with moments of dark humor, is where the attempt at noir comedy comes into play.

Noir Elements – Hit and Miss:

Adulthood attempts to capture the cynical atmosphere of classic film noir. The characters are morally ambiguous, their decisions often driven by selfish desires and questionable morals. The cinematography, while not overtly stylized, attempts to capture a sense of urban decay and disillusionment. However, the execution of these noir elements feels inconsistent. The attempts at gritty realism often clash with the more comedic aspects, resulting in a tonal imbalance that leaves the viewer unsure how to react.

Comedy that Falls Flat?

The comedy in Adulthood relies heavily on crude humor, often bordering on offensive. While some viewers find this style relatable and even hilarious, many find it jarring and ultimately detracts from the film's more serious themes. The comedic timing also feels off at times, further hindering the effectiveness of the humor.

Performances and Character Development:

The performances are arguably the strongest aspect of the film. Noel Clarke delivers a compelling performance as Sam, capturing the frustration and desperation of a young man struggling to find his place in the world. The supporting cast also offers believable portrayals of flawed individuals navigating the challenges of adulthood. However, the character development could have been more nuanced, allowing for greater emotional investment from the audience.

The Verdict: Is it the Worst?

While Adulthood's attempt at blending noir and comedy is undoubtedly flawed, calling it the worst ever made is a bold claim. There are certainly far worse examples of films attempting genre-bending that completely miss the mark. The film's weaknesses stem from inconsistent tone, uneven pacing, and occasionally offensive humor. However, it possesses a raw energy and a certain undeniable charm, particularly for viewers who connect with its depiction of working-class life in London. Ultimately, whether you consider it a masterpiece or a cinematic disaster will depend entirely on your personal taste and tolerance for its rough edges.

Beyond the Review: Exploring Other "Bad" Genre-Benders:

While Adulthood may not be the worst noir comedy, it sparks an interesting conversation about films that attempt genre-bending but ultimately fail. Consider exploring other films that similarly attempt ambitious genre blends, such as [link to a relevant article on genre-bending films]. You'll likely find a wide range of successes and spectacular failures – and perhaps gain a new appreciation for Adulthood's unique (if flawed) position within that spectrum.

Call to Action: Have you seen Adulthood? Share your thoughts in the comments below! What other films do you think deserve the title of "worst" in their respective genre mashups? Let's discuss!