You wouldn’t expect Bucky Larson: Born to Be a Star — a movie about a young man who decides to pursue a career in adult films after discovering his parents were once porn stars — to provide a fresh perspective on sexuality. If anything, it seems like it would fall into the category of films like 40 Days and 40 Nights: no discernable plot, just a few cheap gags about, erm, bumping uglies or playing five-onone, so to speak. But Bucky Larson is actually a bit more mature than you might think. The film tells a coming-of-age story of sorts, followings the mental and moral growth of the protagonist, played by comedian Nick Swardson (Grandma’sBoy). “We don’t tap into the filthiness,” Swardson said in a college conference call with The Signal. Swardson said that although some of his fans had reservations about the role, others understood that he has a history of playing extreme characters. That said, Bucky Larson is actually fairly naïve, even G-rated — someone Swardson said he personally doesn’t have much in common with. “I don’t own a sweater vest,” he said. Although the background and evolution of Swardson’s character is certainly intriguing, his own life warrants examination too A fan of comedians including Charlie Chaplin and Woody Allen, Swardson began his own career in entertainment after completing high school. In addition to a recurring role on Comedy Central’s “Reno 911!”, Swardson’s filmography includes Almost Famous, House Bunny and Just Go With It. With an all-star cast, including Christina Ricci (Sleepy Hollow), Stephen Dorff (Blade) and Don Johnso (“Miami Vice”), as well as writing courtesy of comedy legend Adam Sandler, the film is sure to resonate with audiences — despite its potentially questionable content. “I’m proud of the final product,” Swardson said. “It’s the weirdest romantic comedy you’ll see in your life.”
