The Way Way Back film review

I watched a movie last night called "The Way Way Back." An immensely humorous film courtesy of Nat Faxon and Jim Rash the directors and writers, to whom we also owe thanks for the equally witty "The Descendants."

The film follows an awkward and innocent teenage boy (Liam James, 2012) spending his Summer holidays in a beachside town with his mother and her boyfriend (Steve Carell, Get Smart) and his daughter. The boyfriend is a manipulative bully forcing Duncan to leave the home everyday in order to avoid him. Eventually he lands a job in the local water park working with Owen (Sam Rockwell, Seven Psychopaths), Roddy (Nat Faxon, Bad Teacher) and Caitlyn (Maya Rudolph, Bridesmaids). There he grows in confidence and popularity, the ugly duckling turning into a swan.

I am a huge fan of Sam Rockwell. He consistently charms me with his wacky and quirky roles but also by showing his ability to play a more serious character like in "Everybody's Fine." He is absolutely outstanding in this film playing a fun-hunting and generous young man befriending Duncan and showing him what it means to have fun.

Steve Carell is also fabulous. He successfully plays his bullying character resulting in you finishing the film with a burning hatred towards him.

I have heard little of Liam James but was pleasantly surprised with his convincing performance as a browbeaten and sad boy. He powerfully pulls at your heartstrings and we are ecstatic as he grows and develops throughout the film.

An absolutely hilarious and moving film, take heed of my advice and WATCH IT!

Image taken from http://www.tqsmagazine.co.uk