The Spectacular Now (2013) - Starring Miles Teller, Shailene Woodley, Brie Larson, Kyle Chandler, Jennifer Jason Leigh, Bob Odenkirk. Written by Scott Neustadter and Michael H. Weber. Based on the novel by Tim Tharp. Directed by James Ponsoldt. Rated R. Now in Theaters.
The Spectacular Now just might have become my favorite movie of the year. Sorry, The Way, Way Back, you'll still be second, at least.
The Spectacular Now follows Sutter (Miles Teller), the life of every party he goes to, as his outlook on life is changed by his relationship with Aimee (Shailene Woodley). What is great about this film is that at any moment it could easily delve into the standard high school clichés, but it doesn't. There are only a handful of movies that actually capture what is like to be in high school and this is one of them. Since I graduated from high school two years ago, I could easily relate and realize how true to life this film was it. In addition to the authenticity of the high school experience, the relationships in the film feel true to life and authentic. It was amazing how relatable many of the relationships are and that's due to the amazing writing and acting, especially Teller and Woodley. Another point of authenticity: the small town that this takes place in feels like a real place. It doesn't seem like it was created by set designers. It feels insanely real, which most of this film does.
The film is very emotional, and there's many points in the film that hit close to home to me. It's heart-breaking at times, triumphant at others. You get invested in these characters, because you can either see yourself in them, or see your friends in them.
I think the best thing the film does is take the stereotype of the "party guy" and explain why he acts and thinks like he does. I can't even fully explain how great some of the scenes are where you see his motivations and actions without ruining the film, so I won't. Just trust me and go see it. My only complaint with this movie is that it ended. I could have watched these characters for so much longer. It's fantastic, or I suppose you could say, spectacular.
Rating: 4.5 out of 5.
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