The Way Way Back (2013) Review in 2025
The Way Way Back is a heartwarming coming-of-age story about a shy teenager who finds his place in the world during a summer at the beach.
Family-Friendly Rating
Is this movie suitable for family viewing?
This movie is suitable for family viewing, but it may not be suitable for very young children due to some mature themes and language.
CineReview Recommendation
This movie is definitely worth watching, especially for fans of coming-of-age stories and character-driven dramas. It's a heartwarming and relatable film that will leave you feeling uplifted and inspired.
Spoiler Alert!
Hover to reveal spoiler summary
The movie follows Duncan, a shy teenager who spends a summer at his mother's boyfriend's beach house, where he befriends a lifeguard named Owen and learns to stand up for himself and find his place in the world.
Review Details
story8.50/10
The story is well-written and engaging, with a strong focus on character development and emotional depth. The plot is relatable and authentic, making it easy to become invested in the characters' lives.
acting9.50/10
The acting in this movie is superb, with each cast member delivering a standout performance. Liam James shines as Duncan, bringing a vulnerability and relatability to the character.
characters9.00/10
The characters in this movie are well-developed and complex, with each one bringing their own unique personality and quirks to the table. The cast delivers excellent performances, making it easy to become attached to the characters.
direction8.00/10
The direction is solid, with a clear vision for the tone and atmosphere of the movie. The pacing is well-balanced, with a good mix of humor and drama.
cinematography7.50/10
The cinematography is decent, with some nice shots of the beach and the characters' interactions. However, it's not particularly memorable or impressive.
Pros and Cons
Pros
The Way Way Back is a beautifully written and acted coming-of-age story that explores themes of identity, family, and friendship. The cast delivers excellent performances, and the direction is solid.
Cons
The cinematography is somewhat forgettable, and the pacing can be a bit slow at times. However, these minor flaws do not detract from the overall impact of the movie.
Notable Quotes
"I'm not a bad person, I'm just a little... unsavory."
"You're not a failure, you're just a work in progress."
