The Spectacular Now (2013) Review in 2025
The Spectacular Now is a romantic drama film that tells the story of Sutter Keely, a charismatic high school senior who falls in love with Aimee Finecky, a quiet and book-smart student.
Family-Friendly Rating
Is this movie suitable for family viewing?
This movie is suitable for mature teenagers and adults due to its themes of love, identity, and substance abuse.
CineReview Recommendation
This movie is a must-watch for fans of romantic dramas and coming-of-age stories. It's a beautifully written and acted film that will leave you feeling nostalgic and hopeful.
Spoiler Alert!
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The film explores Sutter's struggles with his own identity and his complicated relationship with Aimee, which ultimately leads to a poignant and emotional conclusion.
Review Details
story9.00/10
The story is well-written and engaging, with a unique narrative voice that adds to the film's charm. The pacing is well-balanced, with a good mix of humor and drama.
acting9.50/10
The acting is superb, with Miles Teller and Shailene Woodley delivering standout performances. The chemistry between them is undeniable, and their romance is sweet and believable.
characters9.50/10
The characters are well-developed and relatable, with Sutter and Aimee being particularly well-portrayed. The supporting characters add depth to the story and provide some comedic relief.
direction9.00/10
The direction is excellent, with James Ponsoldt bringing out the best in his cast. The cinematography is also noteworthy, capturing the beauty of the small-town setting.
cinematography8.50/10
The cinematography is visually appealing, with a mix of bright and muted colors that reflect the mood of the scene. The camera work is also impressive, with some clever uses of close-ups and wide shots.
Pros and Cons
Pros
The Spectacular Now is a beautifully written and acted film with a unique narrative voice and a talented cast. The cinematography is also noteworthy, capturing the beauty of the small-town setting.
Cons
The pacing can be a bit slow at times, and some viewers may find the themes of substance abuse and identity to be heavy-handed.
Notable Quotes
"I'm not a bad person, Aimee. I'm just a little...different."
"You're not a bad person, Sutter. You're just a little...lost."
