Big Fat Liar

This 2002 teen comedy, directed by Shawn Levy (JUST MARRIED, THE PINK PANTHER, NIGHT AT THE MUSEUM, DATE NIGHT) stars Frankie Muniz, Paul Giamatti and Amanda Bynes.

The plot centers on Jason Shepherd (played by Frankie Muniz), a 14-year old student who’s an incorrigible liar and con artist. When he fails to complete his creative writing essay, he’s given one chance to make it up, so Jason writes a story called Big Fat Liar. On his way to the school he collides with the limousine of a smarmy, sleazy Hollywood producer (played by Paul Giamatti). Leaving his manuscript behind accidentally, Jason is forced to undergo summer school. It then that Jason and his friend Kaylee (Amanda Bynes) discover that the Hollywood producer plagiarized Jason’s essay, turning it into a film entitled Big Fat Liar. Jason and Kaylee then plot their systematic revenge against the producer. They travel to Hollywood. Cue ensuing hijinks.

This film serves as Frankie Muniz’ transition from television (MALCOLM IN THE MIDDLE) to film, and taking the safe route, this film is rated PG to capture the largest possible demographic. It’s inoffensive fun for the whole family. Kids will love this film ‘cuz it’s pure kid fantasy wish-fulfillment. Firstly, we’ve got a teen who gets the rare opportunity to turn a major studio backlot into his personal playground. Secondly, said youngster is given an opportunity to navigate in an adult world filled with one upmanship. Lastly, we get to see a sleazebucket get his just desserts. What’s not to love?