By Maria NeCastro of girlwiththemovieblog.blogspot.com
In his first starring role, Lian James gives an unforgettable performance as Duncan, a shy 14-year-old on vacation with his mother (Toni Collette), his mother’s boyfriend (Steve Carell), and his mother’s boyfriend’s daughter.
Released originally in July of this year, this indie-comedy delves into a range of emotions that we’ve all felt in our adolescent years. From the first kiss to the first job, Duncan’s life feels real. His personal growth throughout one summer vacation is moving as he goes transforms from a timid boy to a young man who can stand up to even his worst enemy, his mom’s boyfriend, Trent.
In his portrayal of Trent, Steve Carell proves that his acting range goes beyond ridiculous or foolish. As a father figure to Duncan, Carell manages to create an unlikable persona that allows the audience to connect with the introverted main character. To cast Steve Carrell in a non-comedic role is a tragedy, however, The Way Way Back quickly makes up for that travesty when Duncan starts working at a local water park, Water Wizz.
The comedic support in this movie is what keeps it going. The staff at Water Wizz is made up of the talented Sam Rockwell (Seven Psychopaths‘ Billy), Maya Rudolph (Bridesmaids‘ Lillian), Nat Faxon (Ben and Kate‘s Ben), and Jim Rash (Community‘s Dean Pelton). In addition, Allison Janney of 2007’s Juno was perfectly cast as the family’s neigbor, Betty, who has a wonderful way of breaking the tension in some of the most intentionally awkward moments of the film.
When it comes down to the selling points of this film, it’s not about flashy cinematography or constant laughs, it is about how completely raw and honest the performances of all of the actors feel. If you are a fan of Woody Allen’s 2011 release, Midnight In Paris, this charming movie is one you’ll want to add to your watchlist.
Grade B+