Despite being headlined by Seann William Scott (best known as Stifler from the American Pie films) and advertising itself as an action-comedy, Michael Diliberti‘s Bad Man leans into more of a sense of seriousness overall. It isn’t without its chuckles, but it doesn’t have quite an entire hold of blending both genres, leaving the film at a slight disadvantage from both genre points of view.
That being said, Dilibert’s script, written in collaboration with JJ Nelson, isn’t without its intrigue and charm overall, taking advantage of both Scott’s comedic sensibilities and his believable stance as an action figure, leading the charge as Bobby Gaines, an undercover agent with the Tennessee Special Narcotics Task Force, assigned to look into the small town of Colton Lake and their growing meth problem.
With his gruff, masculine demeanour and big dick energy, he’s easily welcomed by the locals, which irks one Deputy Sam Evans (Johnny Simmons), a former local sports star, whose holding of a badge and authority hasn’t translated to respect. Sam holds his town dear to his heart, but the locals are less accommodating, looking down as he fell from grace, meaning they hardly hold any faith in his abilities as an enforcer of the law.
Gaines strolling into town brings mixed emotions for Evans and his right-hander, DJ (the late Chance Perdomo, this film marking his final film appearance following his passing last year), who don’t appreciate the immediate dominance he exudes, but they also can’t help but be impressed by such, wanting to buddy up to him and learn of his ways. And it’s their eagerness to work alongside him in the planned uncovering of the meth labs that Gaines takes advantage of, leading Sam, in particular, on an interesting quest of self when he starts to piece together Gaines’s backstory, which may not be as forthcoming as initially projected.
The mystery element of who Gaines is and his attachment to the town ultimately serves as Bad Man‘s most intriguing, with its action and comedy quota very much playing second fiddle to a genuine crime thriller that delights in a certain slow burn temperament. It has moments of physicality and some genuinely humorous additions throughout (Rob Riggle as the police chief provides amusing support), but it’s a stronger feature when it lets Evans unfold and find meaning in his place in the town and in comparison to the falsely adored Gaines.
At 98 minutes, Bad Man is a neatly packaged crime outing that may not utilise its full capabilities, but, nonetheless, delivers suitable entertainment as an effort that’s mis-marketed itself. Scott makes for a fine leading man and, if nothing else, this simple vehicle serves as a reminder of his scrappy charm that, like the film, feels untapped in its potential.
THREE STARS (OUT OF FIVE)
Bad Man will be available on Digital Download from September 22nd, 2025.
