“Funny, real and uplifting.” It’s fantastic.
In an era where trailers and publicity are king, there’s a wonderful thrill about discovering a new film that really resonates with you. On that note, since being released in 2013, the effortlessly charming and incredibly uplifting The Way Way Back is rightfully revered as a modern cult classic and there’s a good reason why.
At first glance, you might be prepared to lump it in with the likes of Little Miss Sunshine, Juno, Adventureland, and countless other ‘too cool for school’ hipster coming-of-age films. You know those types of movies where every character is at pains to express their individuality in a world that just doesn’t ‘get them’ and the soundtrack probably features some track by Yo La Tengo.
Granted, this writer is a big fan of those aforementioned films – apart from Juno, but that’s a whole other article – but there’s something extremely different about The Way Way Back.
Clip via Movieclips Trailers
What exactly? Well, it just seems to understand the dynamics that exist between people and in its main character, the shy and reclusive Duncan, the filmmakers have perfectly captured what it feels like to be a teenager.
Duncan isn’t an angsty teen looking to rebel at every chance. He’s not a mopy goth who hates everything and everyone. He’s not an incredibly popular athlete beloved by all. He’s not effortlessly charming and supremely confident around girls. He’s just a kid.
A quiet, unassuming and frustrated kid that feels like he’s invisible to the world. Who hasn’t felt like that at some point?
Duncan’s not looking to score the winning touchdown, date the prom queen or play at the battle of the bands; he’s just looking for someone to actually listen to him.
During a summer vacation, the 14-year-old, his mother (Toni Collette), her overbearing boyfriend (Steve Carell) and his daughter (Zoe Levin) are all forced to get along. Having a rough time fitting in, Duncan’s fortunes change when he finds an unexpected friend in Sam Rockwell’s larger than life and gregarious character, Owen.
Owen is the manager of the Water Wizz water park and through this newfound friendship, Duncan slowly opens up to and begins to find his place in the world.
As mentioned previously, we’re massive fans of Rockwell and this is one of his finest films. Owen doesn’t really do pep talks, inspirational speeches or offer sound advice. In fact, his idea of helping Duncan is taking the piss out of him and having some fun. Isn’t that what all teenagers do?
Since being released, the film has become a beloved cult-classic and one of those hidden gems that are just itching to be discovered. These critics agree.
Empire – “A film for every age, whether you’re an awkward kid, former awkward kid or awkward kid-adjacent. Funny, real and uplifting. A film that reaffirms your belief in the human spirit.”
Rolling Stone – “The Way Way Back gets it wittily, thrillingly right. It turns the familiar into something bracingly fresh and funny. It makes you laugh, then breaks your heart.”
NY Times – “The Way, Way Back” has the charm of timelessness but also more than a touch of triteness.”
LA Times – “Authenticity gives the movie its witty, heartwarming, hopeful, sentimental, searing and relatable edge. It is merciless in probing the tender spots of times like these, and tough-guy sweet in patching up the wounds.”
The Atlantic – “An unexpected yet irresistible cross between Meatballs and The Ice Storm, The Way Way Back just may be the best movie of the summer.”
The Way Way Back is on Film 4 on Monday at 6.55pm.
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