October proved to be a delightful month for enthusiasts of Ed Helms films, marking the release of both Vacation and Tag in stunning 4K Ultra HD. The latter, which showcases Helms alongside a stellar ensemble cast, was released by Warner Bros. Pictures in 2018. With a box office gross of $78 million against a modest budget of $28 million, Tag emerged as a successful comedy rooted in a captivating true story featured in The Wall Street Journal. This tale revolves around a group of men who have engaged in an ongoing game of tag for over two decades, reminiscent of the hilarious antics seen in iconic sketches like the Monty Python “Olympic Hide-and-Seek Final.”

“Every year for one month, five fiercely competitive friends dive headfirst into an unrestrained game of tag that they’ve played since childhood, risking their jobs, lives, and relationships to outsmart one another with the battle cry: ‘You’re It!’ This year, the game aligns with the wedding of their sole undefeated player, but he’s expecting them and is prepared for their antics. Based on a true story, Tag illustrates the lengths to which some friends will go to become the ultimate champion,” the Tag 4K synopsis elaborates.

I initially overlooked Tag upon its theatrical release but quickly found myself intrigued by its impressive cast. The film features a comedic powerhouse lineup including Ed Helms, Jake Johnson, Jon Hamm, Hannibal Buress, and Jeremy Renner, with Isla Fisher brilliantly portraying the wife of Helms’ character. The film is further enriched by outstanding supporting performances from Rashida Jones, Thomas Middleditch, Lil Rel Howery, and Sebastian Maniscalco, ensuring an abundance of laughs in every scene. While certain segments may not resonate with more conservative audiences—such as the jokes surrounding miscarriage and waterboarding—I was pleasantly surprised by the film’s willingness to explore edgy humor.

While it may not reach the outrageous heights of other comedies, it’s significant that Tag is inspired by real-life events. This authenticity adds depth and heart to the narrative, emphasizing the longstanding friendships that have developed over the years among the characters. Although some plot twists, particularly a late revelation about Helms’ character, do not evoke the intended emotional response, the film remains a charming exploration of friendship. It’s an easy watch that will keep you chuckling at the absurd situations that unfold throughout their ongoing game.

Regrettably, the Tag 4K release does not include a commentary track, which is unfortunate as it would have been fascinating to hear insights from the cast regarding their filming experiences. However, the release does feature a variety of special extras that enhance the viewing experience. Audiences can enjoy three engaging segments: six minutes of deleted scenes, an eight-minute gag reel filled with hilarious bloopers, and a five-minute featurette that highlights the true stories behind the film. The latter is particularly enjoyable, showcasing how certain real-life pranks and disguises inspired the movie, reinforcing the heartfelt essence at its core.

Unmissable Tag 4K Review: Discover the Final Verdict

Owning the Tag 4K release is a fantastic way to enjoy this comedic gem. With a roster of familiar faces and an exceptional supporting cast, the film boasts a plethora of naturally funny actors who deliver memorable performances. Although the special features may not be groundbreaking, the film shines in UHD quality, providing an enjoyable visual experience, while the additional features offer around 20 minutes of extra amusement, making it well worth your time.

Disclosure: The product was sent by the distributor for our Tag 4K review.