Weekend Watch: Orange County [2002 Comedy/Drama]

If you’re looking for a lighthearted comedy to ease into the fall semester, Orange County is a perfect pick. Released in 2002, this coming-of-age comedy directed by Jake Kasdan tells the story of Shaun Brumder, played by Colin Hanks, a laid-back California teen with dreams of leaving his quirky family behind to attend Stanford University. Of course, things don’t go as planned when his application is sent to the wrong school, and chaos ensues.

Orange County is a fast-paced mix of teen humor, family drama, and absurd situations, with standout performances by Jack Black as Shaun’s hilariously dysfunctional brother and John Lithgow as his self-absorbed father. The film captures that classic early-2000s vibe, complete with beachy aesthetics and a soundtrack filled with alt-rock tunes. It’s part stoner comedy, part heartwarming story of a kid just trying to figure out his place in the world.

While the film may not reinvent the genre, its charm lies in the chemistry between the cast and its sharp comedic timing. Colin Hanks gives a grounded performance as the straight man caught in a whirlwind of ridiculousness, and Jack Black’s over-the-top antics steal nearly every scene he’s in.

With the school year now in full swing, Orange County is a reminder that no matter how well you plan, life has its way of throwing curveballs—and sometimes, those detours are exactly what you need.

Have you ever had a plan completely go off the rails and lead you somewhere unexpected?