by Released in 2002, National Lampoon’s Van Wilder told the story of Van Wilder, a senior at Coolidge College who has been there for over seven years without graduating. Played brilliantly by Ryan Reynolds, Van Wilder was an outrageous party animal who always had a scheme up his sleeve. While the movie received mixed reviews at the time, Reynolds’ breakout performance as Van Wilder has cemented the character as a comedy icon and ensured the film remains a nostalgic favorite nearly 20 years later.
Van Wilder captured the carefree spirit of the college experience for many millennials who were coming of age in the early 2000s. The movie depicted all the excesses of college life – the parties, hookups, drinking games, and general debauchery that young adults indulge in during those formative years. For viewers who had recently graduated or were currently in college, Van Wilder brought back vivid memories of that chaotic yet enjoyable time. The movie became a touchpoint that generated discussions and inside jokes among friends who had all experienced similar antics. Even for those not yet in college, Van Wilder painted an aspirational picture of college as an endless party. The film perfectly captured the nostalgia many feel for their college days through its comedic but truthful depiction of student antics.
Beyond just capturing the college experience, Ryan Reynolds created an iconic character in Van Wilder that has endured for decades. Van Wilder himself was larger than life – he was insanely charismatic, quick-witted, and always up for a good time. Nothing seemed to faze him as he talked, charmed, and schemed his way out of any situation. His endless confidence and ability to think on his feet made him endlessly entertaining to watch. Van Wilder also exhibited a kind of chaotic resourcefulness – no matter how outrageous the scheme, he always seemed to pull it off through sheer force of will. Reynolds imbued Van Wilder with an infectious energy and charm that made all his antics wildly hilarious but also somewhat aspirational. Audiences wanted to be as carefree and charming as Van Wilder in the face of any adversity.
Reynolds perfectly captured Van Wilder’s comedic timing, delivering line after line with pitch perfect delivery. His comedic talents shone through and made Van Wilder’s most memorable quips instantly quotable. To this day, fans still reference classic Van Wilder lines like “It’s milkshake time!”, “Cool story, babe. Now go make me a sandwich.”, and “Party at Van Wilder’s house! Pants are optional but alcohol is required.” Reynolds brought such an effortless charisma and wit to the role that Van Wilder truly felt like a living, breathing person. Even rewatching the movie today, Reynolds’ performance is just as hilarious and enjoyable as it was in 2002. His star-making turn as Van Wilder is a big reason the character remains so memorable.
While the plot of Van Wilder is nonsensical and the humor crude at times, the movie delivers consistent laughs from beginning to end thanks to Reynolds’ comedic mastery. It’s the kind of comedy that is easy to rewatch over and over again without losing its humor. The outrageous situations Van Wilder finds himself in and his quick witted responses never get old. Even small background gags and visual jokes land every time. Scenes like Van Wilder trying to sneak a cat into class in his pants or getting caught in an epic beer bong fail are hilarious no matter how many times viewers have seen them. The movie never takes itself too seriously, so viewers can just sit back and enjoy the silly antics without overthinking the lack of plot. It’s the perfect “turn your brain off” comedy.
Nearly 20 years later, Van Wilder still holds up remarkably well and remains a nostalgic favorite. The character has also transcended the original film in many ways. Van Wilder has become such an iconic figure that he is regularly referenced and paid homage to in pop culture. The character inspired countless Halloween costumes as people aimed to channel Van Wilder’s carefree party spirit. He has been spoofed on shows like Family Guy and referenced in movies like Blockers to poke fun at out-of-control college parties. Van Wilder is still a touchpoint that brings smiles and memories of good times for a generation who came of age in the early 2000s.
Ryan Reynolds’ star-making performance as Van Wilder is a big reason the character remains so memorable and popular today. He imbued Van Wilder with an infectious energy and charisma that made the character instantly iconic. Reynolds’ comedic timing and ability to deliver line after hilarious line ensured Van Wilder quotes would be cemented in pop culture lore. While the movie itself may not have achieved blockbuster status, Van Wilder has taken on a life of his own. The character continues putting a smile on people’s faces through nostalgia and goofy laughs nearly 20 years later. Reynolds captured lightning in a bottle by bringing such a larger-than-life comedic creation to life on screen. Even after all this time, Van Wilder remains one of Reynolds’ most beloved roles thanks to his brilliant portrayal of the ultimate college party legend.
