The Way, Way Back (2013) Review

4.5/5

This is an often hysterical and magnificently acted film that embodies the trials of being a teenager while standing up to the darker parts of family life.
It has been a long, long time since a film had this many characters who are all memorable. Each person that walks on screen, no matter how much screen time is had, leaves a mark on the film. Everyone has such energy that I was always involved with the events of the screen not only because the script is fantastic, but because the actors are so natural it goes down like sugar. Allison Janney and Sam Rockwell are incredibly vivid and completely necessary in this film, as they are in all films, and their presence is felt through the heart and the laughing that they provide. Liam James and AnnaSophia Robb are excellent as teenagers navigating their own path (and James is a perfectly capable frontman). Maya Rudolph, Rob Corddry, and Amanda Peet are all vital though small parts. Nat Faxon and Jim Rash, the writers and directors, also have small and hysterical parts. Also, for a bit of the most inspired casting in a long while, get ready to see the wonderful Steve Carell in a whole new light. Each of these actors, and the rest of the cast, bring a life to the world that Faxon and Rash created, and they live perfectly within this world as if they've been there all their lives.
The script is spot on, not just alternating between hilarious one liners, awkward situations, and heartfelt conversation but making them all work together which really provides an excellent experience in both comedy and drama. The camerawork gets the job done, and the direction really keeps the whole thing moving at a lovely pace. I do wish that it avoided being formulaic by just a hair, but honestly, as my grade can back up, I didn't care too much. I was absorbed by the film and I loved every second. Seeing it with my girlfriend helped to heighten the experience, because it is relatable in every sense of the word. If you can, see with your significant other.
I recommend this highly, and hope you check it out. It is one of the better films 2013 has had to offer thus far.