Greg Mottola’s “Adventureland” treads depressive territory, the film a belated coming-of-age drama with a few strategically placed witty musings and chuckle-worthy interactions.
It’s 1987, and virginal James (Jesse Eisenberg) finds himself employed at Adventureland, an aging amusement park run by an oddball couple (Bill Hader and Kristen Wiig). While it’s not his dream job at all, James soon fits in, appreciates the company of his coworkers, and is befriended by cool gal Em (Kristen Stewart). But both have secrets that don’t stay unshared for long. Their kiss-and-tell scenario inevitably spirals out of control, predictably bites them in the posterior, and just might ruin some relationships along the way.
Young adults may identify with “Adventureland,” while grownups may be reminded of a phase that they (or people they know) experienced: the dead-end job, the temporary shelving of dreams, the bittersweet follies of youth. Structurally, it’s like a typical teen soap episode, but decompressed, less eventful, and with fewer significant twists. Still, the tale is told with clarity, and the quirkiness of some characters doesn’t feel forced.
It rarely feels or looks like 1987, though. While songs from the era (by The Cure, Falco, etc.) play mostly during moments of levity, and some ‘80s-looking hairstyles are prominently shown, they don’t necessarily help recreate the distinct ambience. On the other hand, the recurring absence of that retro feel makes some scenes more subtle. The simplicity and timelessness of the story add to its charm, although you’d wish that it had gone through more complicated routes before getting to its destination.
“Adventureland” is an Ayala Cinemas exclusive opening on July 22.
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