The Way Way Back is the most surprised that I have been by a film in a long time. On the surface, it is a typical coming of age story: a socially awkward teen spends the summer somewhere he doesn't want to be, with people he doesn't like. Fortunately, this movie is much more than the simple premise.
The plot is believable, the casting is perfect (especially Alison Janney and Sam Rockwell) and the writing produces an incredible emotional pull. I laughed, I cried and I felt a deep connection to the characters.
Sam Rockwell's Owen is in my top 10 list of most personable and engaging characters in film. He is a flawed individual, but he has an infectious ability to make others feel loved. I left the film wishing more people were like him, and wanting to be more like him myself.
The excellence of this film lies in the clear vision by Jim Rash and Nat Faxon (writers/directors). They acknowledged the characters' faults, they allowed the awkward moments to last just long enough, and they provided a vulnerability often forgotten in film. With a subtle, yet poignant third act payoff, this film has become an instant favorite.
Additional Note: The "someone who doesn't know you" and "a good friend of the three" scenes are all-timers!
The plot is believable, the casting is perfect (especially Alison Janney and Sam Rockwell) and the writing produces an incredible emotional pull. I laughed, I cried and I felt a deep connection to the characters.
Sam Rockwell's Owen is in my top 10 list of most personable and engaging characters in film. He is a flawed individual, but he has an infectious ability to make others feel loved. I left the film wishing more people were like him, and wanting to be more like him myself.
The excellence of this film lies in the clear vision by Jim Rash and Nat Faxon (writers/directors). They acknowledged the characters' faults, they allowed the awkward moments to last just long enough, and they provided a vulnerability often forgotten in film. With a subtle, yet poignant third act payoff, this film has become an instant favorite.
Additional Note: The "someone who doesn't know you" and "a good friend of the three" scenes are all-timers!