Are you looking for a really good movie? A movie that will make you feel warm and fuzzy about things, about people, that will make you laugh, make you cry, make you want to believe in true love again? My friend, it is with gusto that I recommend to you Adventureland.
It’s not the film you may think it is – though it was directed by the same guy, (Greg Mottola), it is totally not some goofy Superbad-ish comedy about pervy teenagers. Also, though it features Kristen Stewart, AKA “Girl from Twilight,” it is not some overwrought teen romance movie. What it is is a heartfelt, beautifully shot coming-of-age movie with a killer soundtrack, part Dazed and Confused and part Garden State. I mean both of those comparisons in a good way.
It’s kind of like when the Farrely Brothers made “Outside Providence” – based on the ad campaign, everyone thought it was a goofy gross-out flick when it was actually this really sweet, nostalgic, and personal movie about family and one’s place in the world. Just as with Providence, one gets the sense that Adventureland is a very personal film, based on Greg Mottola’s own experience (it is). It also captures a place and time (Pittsburgh in 1987) in much the same manner as Providence captured Rode Island in the 70’s. And the film is similarly well-written, generous to its large, hilarious cast, and really easy on the eyes.
Plus, Freaks and Geeks fans rejoice, it features the one and only Martin Starr. In a speaking role! That lasts more than a few scenes!
And, as if that weren’t enough, you get to see Bill Hader do this:
And did I mention? Martin Starr!!
So, seriously. Go rent it!
October 13, 2009 at 12:34 pm
I watched this on the plane yesterday. So sweet! Also made me think how lucky we all are that none of us died at the Fun Frolic.