The Way Way Back

the-way-way-backSure, it was a predictable coming-of-age summer flick (complete with a loathsome step-dad). But, there was just enough edginess and originality to make this worth while. For example, the beach party scene – where we see the adults acting like kids and the kids being the adults (somewhat)… That scene could have been done straightforwardly, but they put just enough of a twist to keep you engaged. Other little things helped too – I liked how the assistant manager at the water park wasn’t your stereotypical “hot babe who secretly loves the water park owner, but is worried he isn’t serious enough”, but instead the kind of person you might imagine as that person in real life. Plus Steve Carell plays a great creep.