The Way Way Back

A funny, feel-good film, similar to Little Miss Sunshine and Juno… Probably because it was made by the same studio.

The Way Way Back is an uplifting tale of a boy who has to endure a summer with his mum, played by Toni Collette, and her new boyfriend, portrayed by Steve Carell.

It is extremely well cast. Steve Carell does a fantastically accurate job of being a total a-hole. Toni Collette, just like in Little Miss Sunshine, plays the warm mother figure convincingly. She is a fantastic actress.

The main character, Duncan is played by Liam James who is aloof but certainly not played as an emotionless character which I think should be applauded.

My favourite character is laid-back Owen, played by Sam Rockwell. He’s a hilarious character who balances the heavy situations out with a lighter perspectives.

The storyline shows how many of the characters are being manipulated somehow. How a character’s innocence, freedom and best intentions can be impacted by another character.

The Way Way Back has the humanity of Little Miss Sunshine, and the devastation of The Perks of Being a Wallflower.

A fulfilling, uplifting and inspirational journey of a boy standing up for what he feels is right. On a much deeper level, it is a metaphor for man’s struggle to retain control over his life when larger and untouchable entities – whether it’s the government or corporations – are taking away his individuality.

Definitely worth a watch!

Jodie’s rating: 8/10

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