Big Time Adolescence (2019)

Big Time Adolescence (2019): A Fresh Take on Friendship and Growing Up

Introduction: Released in 2019, "Big Time Adolescence" is a coming-of-age comedy-drama that dives deep into the complexities of friendship, adolescence, and self-discovery. This Hollywood film has captured audiences with its witty humor, grounded storytelling, and relatable characters. The movie is directed and written by Jason Orley, showcasing a youthful narrative that resonates with both teenagers and adults alike.

Plot Summary: The story revolves around Mo, a responsible and somewhat straight-laced high school senior, played by Griffin Gluck, who finds himself navigating the tricky waters of growing up with the mentorship — or perhaps misguidance — of his best friend Zeke, an older, charismatic, and somewhat reckless slacker portrayed by Pete Davidson. The film masterfully explores how Mo's life is significantly influenced by Zeke, who introduces him to various risky adventures and questionable decisions, challenging Mo's morals and outlook on life.

The plot captures the essence of adolescence, focusing on the blurred lines between friendship and influence. As Mo tries to find his own identity, he faces dilemmas that test his values, pushing the limits of adolescence and adulthood.

Main Characters and Performances:

• Griffin Gluck (Mo): Griffin delivers a nuanced performance, naturally portraying the struggles of a teenager caught between childhood innocence and the allure of adulthood. His portrayal allows viewers to empathize with Mo's internal conflicts and growth throughout the film.
• Pete Davidson (Zeke): Known for his stand-up comedy and SNL tenure, Pete Davidson surprises audiences with a more layered role, embodying Zeke's charm and flaws in a way that is both humorous and poignant. His performance adds depth to the film's exploration of flawed role models.

Other supporting actors also contribute meaningfully, enriching the story's tapestry and giving a vivid look into the social circle surrounding the protagonists.

Director and Writer: The film is both written and directed by Jason Orley, marking his feature film directorial debut. Orley demonstrates a keen understanding of teenage dynamics and effectively balances comedy with dramatic elements. His direction ensures that "Big Time Adolescence" remains grounded, avoiding clichés typical of the coming-of-age genre, and instead presenting an authentic and heartfelt narrative.

Critical Reception and Themes: Critics have praised the film for its dry humor and insightful look into youth culture. It highlights themes such as mentorship, peer pressure, the search for identity, and the sometimes blurry boundary between right and wrong during adolescence. The film's tone is often lighthearted but doesn’t hesitate to delve into serious issues that make it relatable and thought-provoking.

Music and Soundtrack: While "Big Time Adolescence" is an American film and not a Bollywood production, its soundtrack plays a significant role in setting the film's tone. The music complements the youthful energy and emotional beats of the story, featuring tracks that echo the characters' emotional states and the cultural environment of the story. However, since this is a Hollywood movie, there are no traditional Bollywood songs or an original soundtrack created by Indian singers.

Conclusion: "Big Time Adolescence" offers a fresh and candid portrayal of growing up, the complexities of friendship, and the challenges of finding one’s path in life. With compelling performances led by Griffin Gluck and Pete Davidson, and the insightful direction and writing of Jason Orley, the film stands out as a memorable coming-of-age story from 2019. It is a must-watch for those who appreciate character-driven narratives and heartfelt humor that truly captures the essence of adolescence.

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