The Spectacular Now

Courtesy of A24 Films, Andrew Lauren Productions, 21 Laps Entertainment, and Global Produce

The story of the misunderstood teenage boy has been done to death. There have been after-school specials, movies, television shows, plays, and shadow puppet performances on the subject since the dawn of time. I put off watching this film for so long, because I didn't want to watch another soapy, plaintive film about a boy who is lost, then found by love in the course of 90 minutes....and yet. And yet, this film surprised me the entire runtime. It surprised me in its realism, heart, bravado, and spirit. It showed a side of actress Shailene Woodley that I can't unsee, and taught me that I can root for someone, even if they themselves aren't in the bleachers with me.

 Miles Teller has blown up lately, starring in films like the new "Fantastic Four," and "Divergent" film series. The main reason he keeps getting roles is that he can play the offensive, assured smart ass pretty well. Even in his riveting performance for "Whiplash," there was an element of cocksureness that permeated his entire role. He does an exceptional job as the alcoholic, lost youth to Woodley's plain Jane, salt of the earth Aimee. The two work so well together in this film and their performances feel so spot on it hurts. Aimee is an archetype that exists in every Midwestern high school, of the too good to be true outsider.

 The main issue of the film is Sutter's (Teller) issues with alcohol and partying, which he puts above graduating high school. He treats Aimee badly, and seems virtually lost in a sea of unique, bright eyed faces. He comes to terms with his issues by shying away from them until they nearly eat him alive. Teenage alcoholism hasn't been shown close-up like this, except in a handful of films, and it's breathtaking to witness here. It never falls into clichéd territory and feels authentic throughout.

 If you're not into tortured young men's stories, and their futile attempts at reconciliation, I hope that this film, which is done so well, could change that opinion. It has certainly changed mine.