Always Coming And Going

Fox Searchlight’s The Way Way Back, a new summer movie from Nat Faxon and Jim Rash, the whip smart, Academy Award winning writing team behind 2011’s hit dramedy The Descendants, is a classic summer dramedy: it’s the funny, yet slightly sad, poignant story of an awkward 14 year old wallflower.

At the beach for the summer with his mother, her boyfriend and her boyfriend’s obnoxious daughter, Duncan (Liam James) needs an escape from the house. He finds his sanctuary at Water Wizz, a local water park owned by Owen (Sam Rockwell). Owen is snarky, sarcastic, witty, and funny. He senses Duncan’s loneliness, welcomes him into the Water Wizz family, and the two strike up an unlikely friendship.

The cast of The Way Way Back is what truly brings Faxon and Rash’s script vividly to life. James sells Duncan’s awkward shuffling early teenager-ness, from his clothes right down to his slumpy posture. Just one look at Duncan, and it’s painfully clear that he is in dire need of a little TLC. Toni Collete flits into the movie as Pam, Duncan’s passive mother with Steve Carell, who turns in a fine performance as Trent, Pam’s arrogant, self-absorbed boyfriend. The supporting roles, which include turns by Allison Janney, Anna Sophia Robb, Maya Rudolf, Nat Faxon and Jim Rash breathe incredible life into their characters.

The film revolves around the relationship Duncan develops with Owen. Part friend, part brother, part father figure, Owen offers Duncan that which he so desperately needs- support, attention and love. Owen is in many ways an overgrown child himself, but he still manages to function as an exceptional mentor-like figure to Duncan. Rockwell truly shines as Owen. He’s a perfect match for the awkward shuffling Duncan (James) allowing slick one liners that could seem cruel to come off as endearingly funny and even a bit sweet.

The Way Way Back is a well-rounded summer flick that handles slightly heavier themes than your average summer comedy. It’s smart and funny, yet deeply moving. Duncan’s transformation from the start to the end of the film is nothing short of amazing. It’s wonderful to see him grow as an individual and spend time in an environment where he is surrounded by so much love and attention. The Way Way Back manages to be one of those stories- a story about those who help us and guide us when we need help and guidance the most – without being overly dramatic or heavy handed. It’s a fine film that I highly recommend you add to your summer viewing list

Grade: A+