The Way, Way Back is a film entirely
dependent upon its cast, which makes sense considering the fact that it is the
brainchild of two successful character actors. Nat Faxon and Jim Rash both have
the ability to appreciate the benefits of a strong supporting cast, having
often filled those roles themselves as they display with minor bits in The Way, Way Back, which they also
co-wrote and co-directed together. It is a directorial debut for both, and
while at times their story seems to lack focus, it is their ability to get out
of the actor’s way that cultivates such a rich viewing experience. Each
character has unique personality flaws, and paired with their very human
shortcomings in the screenplay is a masterful bit of casting in this ensemble
dramedy.
Liam James heads
up the cast as our awkward teen, Duncan Duncan Duncan
Much of The Way, Way Back seems to drift without
purpose. There isn’t any clear storyline, despite many obligatory coming-of-age
sequences, leaving this to be a film about performances. No character is wasted
in the screenplay, and no cast member gives anything less than a completely
dedicated performance. Even in its shortcomings, The Way, Way Back is never less than enjoyable thanks to great
casting and some naturally nuanced performances. It isn’t a spectacular film,
but it doesn’t need to be. This film does something simple and fairly
unoriginal, but manages to feel fresh and complex with the sincerity of the
material.
The Blu-ray
release also includes a digital HD Ultraviolet copy of the film. Exclusive to
the Blu-ray is a making-of featurette with some great behind-the-scenes footage
with the cast. There are also some deleted scenes and more behind-the-scenes
footage in a few more featurettes about the locations, filmmakers and ensemble
cast.
Entertainment Value:
8/10
Quality of
Filmmaking: 7.5/10
Historical
Significance: 7/10
Disc Features: 7/10
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