Get us in your inbox

The Way, Way Back

  • Film
  • 4 out of 5 stars
  • Recommended
The Way, Way Back
The Way, Way Back
Advertising

Time Out says

4 out of 5 stars

Nat Faxon and Jim Rash, writers of ‘The Descendants’, deliver a coming-of-age charmer with this witty, nostalgic directorial debut. Liam James stars as 14-year-old Duncan, whose divorced mother (Toni Collette) is dating Steve Carell’s know-it-all Trent. As Trent chips away at his potential stepson’s ailing confidence, Duncan finds a new friend in Owen (Sam Rockwell), manager of the local waterpark. Rockwell is hugely entertaining as the casually mischievous, cheerfully lazy manager whose quickfire, deadpan humour throws awkward Duncan into a state of both confusion and excitement: here’s a father figure who wants to entertain him, not lecture him. This film’s masterstroke is showing everything from Duncan’s point of view, without the traditional cloying narration. A telling story is told through quick glances and snatched conversations witnessed by Duncan while the adults knock back the booze. This also marks what may be Allison Janney’s funniest performance to date: her cheerful, outspoken drunk next door is an absolute hoot.

Written by Anna Smith

Release Details

  • Rated:12A
  • Release date:Wednesday 28 August 2013
  • Duration:103 mins

Cast and crew

  • Director:Nat Faxon, Jim Rash
  • Screenwriter:Nat Faxon, Jim Rash
  • Cast:
    • AnnaSophia Robb
    • Sam Rockwell
    • Steve Carell
    • Toni Collette
    • Liam James
Advertising
You may also like
You may also like