Netflix's 'Incoming' Tries its Hand at a Teen Comedy

Incoming follows a familiar formula for teen comedies, focusing on high school freshmen trying to make a splash at a party. The premise of four friends aiming to elevate their social status and experiencing a night full of unexpected and awkward moments is a well-trodden path in the genre.

While the plot isn’t particularly groundbreaking, the success of such films often hinges on their execution—how well the characters are developed, how fresh the humor feels, and how engaging the situations are. The challenge for the film is to find unique angles or clever twists within the familiar framework to capture the audience’s interest and provide a memorable experience.

Incoming leans heavily on classic teen comedy tropes, many of which have been explored extensively in previous films. The film seems to follow a well-worn path, with elements like

a naïve lead experimenting with drugs, leading to chaos; a popular girl who gets excessively drunk and creates trouble for the protagonists; bullies who are portrayed as needing a dramatic comeuppance. When a film relies on such established elements, it faces the challenge of bringing something new or refreshing to the table.

Incoming does a good job of making its characters relatable, even if it sticks to familiar teen comedy tropes. Each of the boys has a personal goal that feels genuine and taps into common adolescent struggles, which helps to create a connection with the audience. Benj’s quest to confess his feelings, Eddie’s desire to prove his worth, Koosh’s struggle to live up to his brother’s legacy, and Connor’s battle with his nickname all reflect real issues that many young people face, albeit in exaggerated, comedic ways.

The actors’ performances appear to be a highlight, with the cast bringing charm and believability to their roles. The separation of the boys after Act One, while potentially a departure from the typical ensemble dynamic, seems to lead to some amusing situations. Eddie and Connor are mistaken for Uber drivers, a clever and funny twist that adds a layer of humor to the film.

The chemistry between Alejandro and Reed, in particular, enhances the film’s appeal, making their scenes some of the most enjoyable. Their interactions and comedic timing contribute to the film’s best moments, balancing out some of the more predictable elements of the plot.

Overall, while Incoming may tread familiar ground, it seems to succeed in engaging the audience with its relatable characters and entertaining performances. The mix of humor and heartfelt moments might offer a satisfying experience for fans of the genre.

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