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WAY, WAY BACK, THE

"The Way, Way Back" tells the story of Duncan, played by Liam James, who is an awkward teen dealing with his mom's boyfriend, Trent, played by Steve Carell. Trent and Duncan don't exactly see eye to eye on most things and when the two of them are forced to spend the entire summer together, things get a bit complicated. Duncan decides to get away from his family by getting a job at the local amusement park, Water Wizz. There, he becomes friends with the manager Owen, played by Sam Rockwell, and Duncan begins to find himself with the help of his new friend.

I personally do not like this movie very much. I feel like it has nothing too special about it and the acting seems somewhat forced, the lines are cheesy and the plot is unoriginal. All of the scenes are long with very few cuts which does make it feel more realistic, but it also makes the film too drawn out. I am also bothered by the fact that there is hardly any music in this film, so when there is silence it is awkward in a non comical way.

My favorite character is Owen because Sam Rockwell does this character justice. I like the character Owen because he is very sweet to Duncan. He sees that he is having a hard time and teaches him how to stand on his own.

My favorite scene would have to be when Duncan is working his first day at Water Wizz. There are a bunch of teens break dancing in the park and Owen is supposed to break it up. Since he is such a slacker he gives Duncan this task and it is hilarious to watch him try to get the people to listen to him. It really shows how awkward he is and even though he is uncomfortable doing this task, he still does it to help out a friend.

I recommend this film for ages 13+ because there are mild profanities, inappropriate humor and drug use. I rate this 3 out of 5 stars because it is entertaining for the time that you're in the theater, but it isn't memorable or something I would see again.

Reviewed by Raven D., age 15, KIDS FIRST! Film Critic

Rated PG-13 for thematic elements, language, some sexual content and brief drug material

Over the course of his summer break, a teenager comes into his own thanks in part to the friendship he strikes up with one of the park's managers. Directors: Nat Faxon, Jim Rash; Writers: Nat Faxon, Jim Rash; Stars: Steve Carell, AnnaSophia Robb, Toni Collette