Kristin Reviews The Way Way Back

Some early predictions suggested that The Way Way Back might have a shot at some nominations come awards season. After watching it, I think it would be pretty surprising if it did. Not that it’s a bad film. It’s just an unremarkable film.

The Way Way Back is a coming-of-age drama that delivers exactly what it promises - no more and no less. If you’ve seen the previews for the film - or if you’ve ever seen a coming-of-age movie - then you’ll know exactly to expect from this one. That’s not to say that it isn’t entertaining; the movie is sweet and nostalgic and touching. The characters are, for the most part, well developed, although Steve Carrell’s role as “potential future stepfather” lacks depth (due to no fault of Mr. Carrell; it just seems as if the character is written more as a definition of “mom’s crappy new boyfriend” than as a human being). If nothing else, Sam Rockwell is always fun to watch.

As a pleasant way to kill a couple of hours, The Way Way Back is sucessful, but as an award contender, I think it’s just a little too light on the “impressive meter.”

-Kristin
12.22.2013