Adventureland (Greg Mottola, 2009)

Adventureland is an especially good entry into the period coming-of-age film canon, its sharp eye for era detail, in the vein of Richard Linklater’s Dazed and Confused, never leading to over romanticising of its 1980s setting. Initially seeming to be full of stock characters and scenarios for this sub-genre, the film impresses in its leisurely, assured exploration of its characters, both major and minor, affording depth that elevates any stereotypical elements they may possess.

Its simple narrative concerns Jesse Eisenberg’s James’ post-college, pre-graduate school plans floundering as a result of his father’s sudden employment woes, resulting in James having to take a summer job in a provincial amusement park. Initially loathing his fate, he slowly becomes accustomed to his new surroundings, befriending the likes of Martin Starr’s Joel and Kristen Stewart’s alternately fragile and strong Em, and developing romantic feelings towards the latter. The dilapidated park itself seems to mirror the lethargic groove its young characters find themselves in, though there are those, like Ryan Reynolds’ park repairman and Margarita Levieva’s alluring Lisa P., who seem to find a curious home of sorts amongst everything. This is one thing the film does especially well, capturing the feel of a particular low-wage work environment; the tedious necessities are enlivened by the rounded, colourful people you come to interact with…

Full review at Reel Time

Advertisement