blog
08/26/2008
rave reviews: the wackness
Posted by Sarah Atwood
wackness poster

Jonathan Levine has written and directed a coming-of-age film and 90's nostalgia piece The Wackness. The center of the story is Luke Shapiro, played by Josh Peck, who is trying to survive the summer after graduating from high school as a cool loser...cool because he's accepted by his peers as a pot dealer, loser because he has no actual friends. He builds an odd bond with his therapist, Dr. Squires, played by Ben Kingsley, who he is paying with weed. Although, generations in age difference, these two have similar struggles in life.

My expectations of Josh Peck's performance going into this movie were low. I've seen him on Nickelodeon with typical over-the-top kiddie acting. But, I was pleasantly surprised. Peck effortlessly shows the awkwardness of trying to be accepted and the frustrations of living in an unhappy home.

My expectations of Ben Kingsley's performance were, of course, very high and yet he still surprised me. His interpretation of a pot-head, therapist in a loveless marriage blew me away. He was hysterical at times and heart-wrenching at others.

In a great little supporting role is Olivia Thirlby. She is captivating to watch and shows beautiful maturity. I predict a big career ahead for her.

My favorite part of the movie is its use of environment. It is set in the summer of 1994 in New York City and I actually felt like I was back in the 90's. Josh's character plays Nintendo (and even blows on the cartridge!), makes mixed tapes, carries a big boombox, drinks Zima and loves Biggie. If you can remember the 90's, you will appreciate the obvious effort put into these details.

As you can tell, I recommend this movie. The performances are endearing and the story relatable. I laughed, I reminisced, I felt sympathy and enjoyed my journey back in time.